With
spring beckoning, we’d like to remind everyone who treasures their skin: don’t
make these sunscreen mistakes. After all, we don’t want the burn!
The difference
Sunscreen, which contains organic chemical compounds such as octyl methoxycinnamate, octyl salicylate and ecamsule, has a chemical reaction to absorb UV light and convert it into heat, which is then released from the skin.
But sunblock contains mineral ingredients such as titanium dioxide or zinc oxide that physically block UV rays. So the difference is basically the way in which they protect the skin from UV rays. Sunblock blocks UV rays by forming a physical shield, while a sunscreen contains chemicals that absorb UV rays before your skin can.
Check the expiry date
It’s pointless slathering on a product which is past its sell-by date. So, make a point of checking. Most sunscreens have a shelf-life of six to 12 months.
Don’t apply in the
sun
Applying
sunscreen in the sun is also rather a waste of time because 60% will evaporate.
Cover the upper lip
Nothing worse than a crinkly, sun-damaged upper lip. Therefore, it’s important to cover this area with sun protection too. In fact, the upper lip is also prone to basal cell carcinomas, which makes it even more important to cover liberally with sunscreen.
Don’t skip cloudy
days
Often, the UV index on cloudy days is sky-high. Therefore, make a point of applying sunscreen every single day – come rain or shine.
Not topping up
We’ve said it over and over again, but once more: reapply your sun protection product every two hours. Sweat, exposure to water and towel drying will reduce your protection. And do apply liberally all over your body.
Moisturise before
Sunscreen is not a moisturiser or cosmetic product. It’s skin protection – designed to protect your skin from ultraviolet rays. There are sunscreens that contain some moisturiser. But sometimes, when sunscreen is mixed with a moisturiser, its effectiveness may be reduced. That’s why experts recommend using sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF).
It’s
best to always apply your moisturiser before the sunblock. And then, top up the
sunscreen throughout the day.
Application
Sunscreen
needs to be absorbed by the skin, so you have to rub it in. However, because sunblock
acts as a physical barrier, you can simply slather it on.
So,
don’t make these sunscreen mistakes and enjoy a fabulous spring going into
summer.
