Increased Sunscreen Discard Inquiries by 3,950% as Expert Discloses Proper Disposal Timing
** Sunscreen: A Comprehensive Guide **
** SPF just doesn't last forever, here's why **
Ever wondered if your sunscreen is still doing its job? Dr Deborah Lee from ** Dr Fox Online Pharmacy** is here to quash your doubts. That's right; sunscreen, like other skincare products, has a shelf life. Most brands now incorporate an expiration date on their packaging, usually found on the top or bottom. If yours lacks one, scribble it on the bottle yourself.
So, what happens when sunscreen expires? Well, Dr Deborah Lee explains that it loses its potency, and in some cases, may harbor bacteria or mold that could potentially irritate your skin.
** Got the right amount? **
To ensure comprehensive coverage, the recommendation is to apply approximately two teaspoons for each area you're covering:
- Face and neck - 2 teaspoons
- Arms - 2 teaspoons, 1 teaspoon for each arm
- Legs - 2 teaspoons, 1 teaspoon for each leg
- Chest and stomach - 2 teaspoons
- Back and shoulders - 2 teaspoons
If you apply correctly, your sunscreen should get depleted well before it expires. However, if you've been saving that bottle since last summer, it's probably time for a new one.
** Proper application techniques **
Applying sunscreen is non-negotiable in your skincare routine. To make it less of a chore, follow these simple steps:
- Shake the bottle before use to break up any clumping that's accumulated over time.
- Use the three-finger rule when applying to the face. Tap the formula gently all over your face, ears, and neck to avoid irritation and ensure a smoother application.
- When applying to your body, dot small, evenly sized amounts over all exposed areas, and gently massage until it disappears.
- Don't forget those easy-to-miss spots like the neck, back of hands, and feet.
- Allow the formula to soak in for at least 15 minutes before venturing outdoors.
** Staying safe in the summer **
Dr Deborah Lee shares her top tips for safely soaking up the sun:
- Respect the sun. Steam only needs 15 minutes to produce vitamin D, while darker skin may require up to 30 minutes. However, beyond this point, the sun provides no additional health benefits. Overexposure can lead to sunburn, heat exhaustion/heat stroke, all of which are severe conditions – and heat stroke can be lethal. Stay out of direct sunlight between 11 am and 3 pm in the summer. Hang out in the shade, under an umbrella, or indoors.
- Use sunscreen wisely. Opt for a sunscreen with an SPF factor of at least 30 (anti-UVB protection) and a UVA star rating of 4-5 stars (for anti-UVA protection). Those with fair skin or who burn easily should use an SPF 50 sunscreen. For water activities, choose a water-resistant option. Tanning oils, which intensify UV rays, increase the risk of sunburn and premature aging of the skin. A single sunburn every two years triples the risk of developing skin cancer, melanoma, compared to someone who has never been burnt.
- Stay cool. Take measures to cool down, such as sitting in the shade, wearing loose and light-colored clothes, covering your legs and arms, sporting a wide-brimmed hat, tying your hair up, consuming plenty of cool drinks, sprinkling yourself with cold water regularly, and applying a cold compress to your forehead. During particularly hot weather, retreat indoors to a cool area and take a break from the sun.
- Hydrate. During sunny weather, drink at least 3 liters of water per day. Avoid sugary or carbonated drinks in hot weather, as they can worsen dehydration. Watch out for signs and symptoms of dehydration, such as feeling thirsty, a dry mouth, sunken eyes, urinating infrequently, headaches, and feeling unwell. Dehydration symptoms can appear before you have a chance to notice them, so drink plenty to avoid them.
- Protect your eyes. Wearing a hat with a wide brim or a baseball cap shields your eyes from 50% of the sun's rays. Sunglasses with UV protection also block harmful rays, but make sure they bear the CE mark to show they meet European standards. Wear prescription sunglasses with UV protection if you wear glasses.
Sources: [1], [2], [3], [4], [5]
- Incorporating sunscreen into a health-and-wellness routine is essential, and with proper application techniques, it aids in both skin-care and prevention of potential health issues.
- A balanced diet, rich in nutrients, alongside regular sunscreen application and responsible sun exposure, form a comprehensive approach to maintaining overall health-and-wellness and promoting healthy skin-care habits.
