Ensure that you are protected against both UVB and UVA rays. Sunlight is composed of light that we can see, and invisible ultraviolet (UV) light. There are two types of UV light, UVA and UVB. UVA light causes tanning and UVB causes sunburn, but both can damage the skin and increase your risk of developing skin cancer. To make an informed decision when selecting a sunscreen product, it is important to know that more thorough coverage is provided by broad spectrum formulations. These sunscreens offer not only UVB protection, but they also include UVA blocking agents – UVA rays cause most of the damage that leads to premature aging of the skin. Be generous with the amount of product that you apply (the recommendation is 2mg/cm2) – most people underestimate the necessary amount and therefore, do not receive the intended protective effect indicated by the SPF level listed on the packaging. Do not forget your wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses too!
