Sun Protection – A Practical Guide
Why you need sunscreen – every day
The sun is one of the most significant causes of premature skin ageing and the leading cause of skin cancer. Solar radiation includes two types of relevance: UVB (causing sunburn) and UVA (which penetrates more deeply and is responsible for photoageing and pigmentation). Both are linked to skin cancer.
Most importantly: UVA radiation passes through clouds and window glass. This means sun protection is not only for the beach in August – it is a daily habit, even in December, even when you are at the office next to a window.
What do SPF and PA mean?
On sunscreen packaging, you will see two key indicators:
- SPF (Sun Protection Factor): indicates how much protection the sunscreen offers against UVB radiation. SPF 30 filters about 97% of UVB, while SPF 50 filters about 98%. The difference seems small, but in people over 50, sensitive skin, or with a history of melanoma, it matters.
- PA (++ to ++++): indicates protection against UVA. In European products it may appear as “UVA” inside a circle. Aim for at least PA+++ or equivalent.
For daily use, SPF 30 or higher is recommended. For outdoor activity, the beach, mountain pursuits, or a history of skin cancer, SPF 50+ is needed.
Chemical or mineral sunscreens?
Chemical sunscreens absorb UV radiation and convert it to heat. They are lightweight, spread easily, and are well suited to daily use.
Mineral (physical) sunscreens contain zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide and reflect UV radiation. They are ideal for sensitive skin, children, pregnant women, and patients with rosacea or post skin treatments (e.g. after laser or peeling).
There is no “best” category – there is the right one for each skin type and situation.
How much sunscreen should I apply?
This is the most common mistake: most people apply far less sunscreen than required, so the actual protection is significantly lower than the label SPF.
The rule of thumb is:
- Face, neck, and ears: about half a teaspoon (2 ml), or about 2 pumps from a dispenser.
- Rest of the body: about 2 tablespoons.
And always: apply 15-20 minutes before sun exposure.
How often should I reapply?
Every 1.5-2 hours when you will be exposed to the sun, and immediately after swimming, sweating, or towel-drying. For everyday office use, one morning application usually suffices – unless you take a break outdoors.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Skipping the ears, neck, and back of the hands (common sites of non-melanoma skin cancer).
- Using last year’s sunscreen. Sunscreens have a defined shelf life after opening (usually 12 months).
- Thinking that you do not need sunscreen on cloudy days. Up to 80% of UVA radiation passes through clouds.
- Relying on sunscreen alone. A hat, UV-protective sunglasses and clothing, and avoiding peak hours (11 am – 4 pm) are equally important.
Conclusion
Sun protection is the most effective and affordable “anti-ageing” treatment available, and at the same time the most important step in skin cancer prevention. Choose a sunscreen that suits you, apply it correctly, and make it part of your daily routine – all year round.
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