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Home > Healthy People, Healthy Places > Families & Children (0-6 years) > Sun Safety > Sunscreen

Sunscreen

Everyone needs to use it!

Your best protection against the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays is to use sunscreen along with shade, clothing, sunglasses, and a hat.

Sunscreens with a higher Sun Protection Factor (SPF) offer greater protection from sunburn. Choose a UVA/UVB broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher.

Sunscreen absorbs UV rays and prevents penetration through the skin. Sunblock creates a barrier that deflects UV rays. Choose the one that works best for you!

Sunscreens with the Canadian Dermatology Association (CDA) label are a good choice.

Do not use sunscreen on infants under six months of age, and keep infants under one year out of direct sunlight.

Always test for allergic reactions when first using a sunscreen.

Apply a small amount on your inner forearm for 2 to 3 days in a row.
Stop use if your skin shows signs of redness, itching, blotchiness or rash.
Talk to a pharmacist or doctor if sunscreen causes a problem.

For best results . . .

Use sunscreen every day, even on cloudy, hazy or foggy days.
Apply generously and evenly to dry skin 20 minutes before going outdoors.
Reapply 20 minutes after you go out so that the product settles on your skin and gives you maximum protection.
Reapply every 2 hours, even waterproof brands. Apply more often if you sweat, swim, or towel dry.
The average adult should apply a minimum of 1 ounce of sunscreen (about the size of a golfball) everywhere that the sun will strike. Don't forget the ears, nose, back of neck, backs of legs, and the tops of feet.
Protect your lips by applying a lipbalm with an SPF 30 or higher.

Health Canada recommends applying sunscreen 30 minutes before using insect repellent.
Follow the manufacturer's recommendations on the bottle.
Do not use a product after the expiration date.
Store suncreen in a cool, dry place.