Rainsville Pharmacy News

June 2010

June 6th thru 12th is Sun Safety Week.............

ARE YOU USING SUNSCREEN CORRECTLY?

Frequently Asked Questions

How should sunscreens be applied?

• Follow directions and shake the bottle before using.
• Thoroughly rub sunscreen over skin to make sure the coverage is even.
• Make sure all skin is covered (including neck, ears, and lips).
• For people with thin or thinning hair, apply sunscreen to the scalp as well.

How much should be applied?

• Sunscreen should be applied liberally and evenly to all exposed areas before sun or water exposure.

When should I apply sunscreen?

• Before doing any outside activities.
• Whenever you’re spending time outdoors—and not just in the pool! (for picnics, walks, hiking, riding in a car, etc)

How often should sunscreen be applied?

• Reapply sunscreen after swimming, perspiring, and toweling off.
• Reapply sunscreen often!

What Is SPF?

• "SPF" stands for "Sun Protection Factor."
• Indicates how much longer a person wearing sunscreen can stay in the sun before beginning to burn—than they would without using any sunscreen at all.
• SPF numbers generally range from 2 to 50.
• The American Academy of Dermatology and the Sun Safety Alliance (SSA) recommend an SPF of 15 or higher.
• For children, the SSA recommends sunscreen product, with an SPF of 30.

What strength of sunscreen is best?

• Apply a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher whenever you’re outdoors.
• For children, the SSA recommends sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.

For more information on sun safety for you, your family, and your community,
please visit: www.sunsafetyalliance.org