People often think they are using sunscreen correctly, but they still find themselves with red skin. Dr. Harvey recently teamed up with Piedmont Healthcare to offer these tips on how to be sure you are using sunscreen correctly. If you are still getting burned while using sunscreen, then check out these tips:

  • Get out a shot glass. A shot glass can hold one and a half ounces of liquid, which is how much sunscreen you need to cover your body.
  • Choose the right sunscreen. Whether you opt for a physical or chemical sunscreen, choose a formula that is broad spectrum and at least SPF 30.
  • Take your time. To get the best results, thoroughly massage the sunscreen into your skin.
  • Let it dry for 10 to 15 minutes. This ensures the sunscreen is most effective by the time you head outdoors.
  • Use a water-resistant formula if you know you’ll be sweating or swimming.
  • Reapply often. “With my patients who are golfers, I recommend applying 15 minutes before they start playing, then again after nine holes,” he says. “For tennis players, I tell them to reapply after every two sets.”
  • Remember easy-to-miss spots. “I see many people who miss their back, sides of the face, neck and tops of the ears,” says Dr. Harvey. “I do a lot of skin cancer removals on the temples, upper cheeks, scalp, nose and the ears. These areas usually get the most sun exposure.”
  • Make SPF a part of your daily routine. “Men might choose an aftershave lotion or moisturizer with SPF 30,” suggests Dr. Harvey. “Women can get added sun protection from makeup that contains an SPF 30.”
  • Don’t rely only on sunscreen alone. Wear sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat and SPF-rated clothing. Take breaks from the sun and seek shade or go inside when you are feeling flushed, tired or overheated.
  • Plan your day according to the sun. Consider performing outdoor activities when the sun isn’t its strongest, such as before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. “You don’t have to be a hermit, but it’s good to be aware of when the sun’s rays are the strongest,” says Dr. Harvey.
  • Don’t use sunscreen on infants younger than 6 months. Avoid exposing babies under 6 months of age to the sun. Instead, dress your baby in SPF-rated clothing, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and keep him or her in the shade.

Read the entire article here: https://www.piedmont.org/living-better/why-your-sunscreen-isnt-working

Learn more about the difference between chemical and physical sunscreen here: https://www.piedmont.org/living-better/the-difference-between-physical-and-chemical-sunscreen

The American Academy of Dermatology offers these tips for stick and spray sunscreens: https://www.aad.org/public/skin-hair-nails/skin-care/sunscreen/how-to-use-stick-and-spray-sunscreens

If you have questions, call us at 770-400-8400 or contact us.