HOW TO USE SUNSCREEN

  • Use a good broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15

  • Choose a product that complies with the current NZ and Australian standards.

  • Apply sunscreen liberally to all sun exposed areas so that it forms a film when initially applied.

  • It takes 20-30 minutes for sunscreen to be absorbed into the skin. Apply it at least half an hour before going out in the sun.

  • Re-apply sunscreen every 2 – 3 hours if staying out in the sun for more than an hour during the day.

  • Re-apply immediately after swimming, excessive sweating, or if rubbed off by clothing or toweling. This should be the case even if the product claims to be water resistant.

  • Insect repellants reduce the sunscreens SPF so when using together use a sunscreen with a higher SPF and reply more frequently.

 

 

Further Information

 

  

SUN PROTECTION

It is vital to protect your skin and eyes from the damaging effect of the sun. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation contributes to ageing skin and is the main cause of skin cancer.

No matter what the weather or what you are doing COVER UP!

 Take particular care in summer – between September and May – especially between 11.00 am and 4.00 pm.

You should also be careful to protect your skin when in the snow or the surf because they both reflect extra ultraviolet radiation onto your skin.

Please make sure any children in your care are protected as well as yourself.

HOW CAN I PROTECT MYSELF? 

  • Wear closely-woven covering clothing – long sleeves, trousers, or a long skirt.

  • Look out for clothing with a label stating its UPF (protection factor) is greater than 40

  • Choose a broad-brimmed hat.

  • Try to keep in the shade.

  • Apply a sunscreen to all uncovered skin at least 30 minutes before you go out.

  • Re-apply your sunscreen every 2-3 hours.

  • Use a sunscreen with a SPF of at least 15 preferably 30

SUNSCREEN

What is SPF?

  • SPF stands for sun protection factor and is the system used worldwide to determine how much protection a sunscreen provides.

  • A sunscreen with a SPF of 15 provides >93% protection against UVB.

  • Protection against UVB is increased to 97% with SPF of 30+.

  • When choosing a product also  look for the wording ‘Broad Spectrum’

  • We recommend all day sunscreens as an option for those who find reapplication a challenge.

MOST PEOPLE WILL NOT ACHIEVE ANYWHERE CLOSE TO THE EXPECTED PROTECTION DUE TO INEFFECTUAL APPLICATION.