The FDA has approved 17 sunscreen ingredients that provide protection against ultraviolet rays. They include both physical substances and chemicals, including para-amino benzoic acid, or PABA) and cinnamates, zinc oxide and titanium oxide
Beyond that, sun worshippers should be aware of other steps they can take that will help them in the battle against damage from exposure.
You should reapply your sunscreen about every two hours or more often after you go swimming (even if the item claims it’s water-resistant). It’s also smart not to expose yourself during the middle hours of the day, which are the peak hours for sun radiation. And if you’re not actively seeking out the sun, cover up. Use an umbrella and wear long sleeves, pants, sunglasses and a hat to guard against the rays.
If you have a history of skin cancer or extremely fair skin, you should always reapply every two hours with a sunscreen that’s at least SPF 30. It’s important to slather it on because you need to put enough on to achieve the goals of the product’s protections. If you have darker skin, you may not put enough on because you’re afraid of the chalky look that comes with a large application. Fortunately, newer products blend better and disappear, so look for products that tout they are “micronized,” which means they will disappear when rubbed into the skin.
Older sunbathers should be assisted in putting on the proper amount of sunscreen, as many of them have a hard time with mobility and can’t reach certain areas of the body. Even though older people have already had considerable exposure to the sun during the course of a lifetime, it’s still important for them to guard against exposure because of the dangers of skin cancer.
Whatever product you choose, make sure you are rigorous in your application and limit your direct exposure to the sun. Even the best SPF rating is no guarantee of complete protection, so take some time out of the direct rays while you enjoy the rest of your outdoor experience.