So we all know the importance of wearing sunscreen for the prevention of cancer and premature aging, but there are a few tips and tricks that will help you get the most out of your products and keep you and your family safer.
Remember the 20-1-2 rule.
For sunscreen to be effective, it must first properly absorb into the skin, so apply it 20 minutes prior to exposure. Most people do not apply enough product, so use a shot glass sized amount (One fluid ounce) when slathering up. Lastly, sunscreen must be reapplied every two hours to ensure its effectiveness. If you are in water, then reapply every hour.
Sunscreen does expire.
Most sunscreens do have an expiration date of three years stamped on the packaging. If you are properly applying sunscreen as often as you should though, one bottle or tube should never ever last you the entire season. If at any time a sunscreen becomes separated, watery, chunky or the smell changes, throw it out.
Properly store your sunscreen.
Sunscreen needs to be kept at room temperature to ensure your safety and the effectiveness of the product. Never leave sunscreen in your car or in direct sunlight as high temperatures breakdown and destroy the formulation, making it less effective in protecting your skin. Keep your sunscreen with you, as you need to apply it often anyhow. Keep it in your beach bag and in the shade, or throw it in your cooler.
