For your convenience, here are answers to most of the questions I frequently receive from my friends, family members and followers:
Answer: Sun protection refers to the measures we take to shield our skin and eyes from the harmful effects of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays.
Answer: Sun protection is crucial because prolonged exposure to UV rays can lead to sunburn, premature aging, eye damage, and an increased risk of skin cancer.
Answer: To protect your skin from the sun, you can use sunscreen with a high Sun Protection Factor (SPF), wear protective clothing, seek shade, and avoid sun exposure during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
Answer: Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. The SPF should be at least 30, and it should be water-resistant if you plan on swimming or sweating.
Answer: It is recommended to reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more often if you have been swimming, sweating, or toweling off. Reapplying is crucial to maintain adequate protection.
Answer: Yes, you can get enough vitamin D through a balanced diet and limited sun exposure. It is generally not necessary to compromise sun protection to meet your vitamin D needs.
Answer: Yes, UV rays can penetrate clouds and cause damage to your skin. It is important to wear sunscreen even on cloudy days or when it's cool outside.
Answer: Yes, children should wear sunscreen too. It is recommended to use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and to keep infants under the age of 6 months out of direct sunlight.
Answer: It is not recommended to use expired sunscreen, as it may not provide the level of protection indicated on the label. Check the expiration date and replace any expired products.
Answer: No, sun protection is important all year round. Even on cloudy or cooler days, UV rays can still cause damage. It's best to make sun protection part of your daily routine.