Experts claim that most people are unaware of the proper precautions they should take to protect their skin from sun damage.
In addition, they say most people make five identical mistakes when it comes to applying SPF creams or lotions.
1. Late protection
Many can’t wait to get to the beach and sunbathe, and then just apply sunscreen. This is probably the most common mistake. Sunscreen should be applied at least 30 minutes before sunrise. In addition, most creams are applied every two hours. If you swim or sweat, apply the protective factor even more often.
2. Use creams from last season
Almost everyone will reach for the cream of the crop from last year and use the leftovers from the previous season. However, few people know that most sunscreen products have a shelf life of 12 months. This label is on the back of the cream or lotion. The symbol is a half-opened box of cream with a certain number that refers to the shelf life of the product, calculated from the date of opening. The consequences of using expired products can be huge and irreparable. A survey conducted in Great Britain revealed a surprising fact – most people use lotions older than 10 years.
3. Protective factor
Pro tip is to always use factor 50, even when it’s rainy or cloudy outside. As they say, the highest factor is the highest level of protection. Many people choose lower protection factors, thinking that this will increase the intake of vitamin D, but studies have shown that the level of this vitamin is not affected by a cream with a higher protection factor. In addition, you can always replace vitamin D with a supplement or by consuming foods that are rich in it.
4. The cream is applied only once
Consistent application of SPF creams or lotions is essential for proper sun protection.
Most people apply the cream once, often incorrectly and not enough. The golden rule is that the amount needed for the face alone is what you apply past your index and middle finger. If you use a spray or roll-on product, go over the same area several times when applying protection. The clothing you wear can protect you, but not be sure to grease all exposed parts.
5. You think you are completely protected
Experts say we are never fully protected from the sun. Sunscreen lotion acts as a filter, not a complete blocker, which means the skin can certainly be damaged. The best protection is to stay out of the sun completely from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
According to experts – there is no such thing as a healthy dark complexion, because tanning is what your skin does to protect cells from harmful rays by creating a darker pigment as a blocker.
