Thinksport Sunscreen

Types of Sunscreen

• Mineral sunscreens create a physical barrier that reflects the sun’s rays. These will often look white when you apply them.
• Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays to protect your skin from sun damage. These soak into your skin and are transparent.
• Broad-spectrum sunscreens protect skin from both UVA and UVB wavelengths, while sunscreens that aren’t broad spectrum only protect against UVB radiation. 

SPF ratings

SPF stands for Sun Protective Factor, and the higher the number, the stronger the protection from sunburn.

• SPF 15 is the minimum recommended by dermatologists, blocks 93% of UV rays and is best for everyday use when you're spending most of your time indoors.
• SPF 30 blocks 97% of UV rays and is best for everyday use when spending some time outdoors.
• SPF 50 blocks 98% of UV rays and is recommended for outdoor activities and extended time outside.
• SPF 100 blocks 99% of UV rays and is recommended for anyone with a high risk or history of skin cancer.

How and When to Apply Sunscreen

• Evenly applying sunscreen is almost more important than the SPF you choose: An SPF 50 sunscreen applied haphazardly provides less protection than an SPF 30 applied consistently.
• Apply the equivalent of a full shot glass's worth of sunscreen (1–1.5 ounces) especially if you're wearing skin-exposing clothes like shorts or a swimsuit.
• The FDA recommends applying sunscreen daily, at least 15 minutes before going outside.
• Reapply sunscreen every two hours, and always immediately after swimming, sweating heavily or toweling off, even before two hours is up.
• Use only shade to protect children under 6 months old.