We all know it’s important to use sunscreen to protect against skin cancer, but picking the right one can be challenging. Dermatologist Darrell Rigel says the best kind is the one you’re actually going to use.
“Sprays are the most commonly used type of sunscreen. The problem is, with spray, you don’t know where you missed. So we recommend you put two coats of a spray on,” Dr. Rigel explains.
The American Academy of Dermatology says look for broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. It’s okay if the product doesn’t have an expiration date. Most last about three years.
Dr. Rigel says, “sunscreen is not required to have expirations dates on it .The one thing that really breaks sunscreen down is extreme heat, so if you leave it in your car that will actually break the sunscreen down.”
Most people don’t use enough sunscreen and don’t reapply as often as they should. Experts say a shot glass full will cover the whole body and reapply every two hours.
Even if you have darker skin, you’re still at risk for skin cancer. And it’s never too late to protect yourself, even if you got too much sun as a kid.
“The damage you get from the sun is cumulative,” Dr. Rigel says, and “there’s sort of meter running on your skin. It never really goes backwards, but if you can slow that meter down.”
Sunscreen should be applied before you get to the beach or pool. Experts say it takes a few minutes to kick in , especially if it’s water resistant.
