7 TIPS TO CHOOSE THE BEST SUN CARE PRODUCTS FROM ATOMA ®

With the ever-expanding array of sun products available today, it is difficult to know which one to choose. Here are a few things to consider to help you choose the best atoma® product for your needs.

• Choose an appropriate SPF
• Protect yourself against UVA and UVB rays
• Pick a water-resistant sunscreen for sports or pools
• Consider ease of application
• How to preserve your sunscreen
• Do not neglect after-sun care
• How much sunscreen to be fully protected?

CHOOSE AN APPROPRIATE SPF

The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) is a measure of protection against UVB rays from the sun. The higher the sunscreen SPF, the more protection it provides from UVB rays. However, it is worth knowing that for anything above SPF 30, these gains are minimal:

• SPF 30: 96.7% of UVB rays are blocked
• SPF 50: 98% of UVB rays are blocked
• SPF 60: 98.3% of UVB rays are blocked

We recommend you to choose a product with an SPF of at least 30.

Warning: A higher SPF does not provide longer protection!

Regardless of the SPF, sunscreen must be reapplied every two hours, when outdoors, even on cloudy or cold days, and after swimming or sweating a lot.

PROTECT YOURSELF AGAINST UVA AND UVB RAYS

Make sure the sunscreen also protects against UVA radiation.

Filters are active ingredients contained in sunscreens that protect skin against UVA and UVB rays from the sun. There are two types:

• Synthetic (or chemical) filters (oxybenzone, octinoxate, octisalate, and avobenzone) transform UVA or UVB rays, rendering them harmless. Often, more than one chemical filter is required in a single product to obtain proper protection against all UVA and UVB rays.
• Mineral filters (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) form a reflective barrier on the skin’s surface. They offer protection against UVA and UVB rays alike.

To ensure your sunscreen provides adequate protection against both UVA and UVB radiation, look for the words “Broad Spectrum” or the UVA logo on the label.

PICK A WATER-RESISTANT SUNSCREEN FOR SPORTS OR POOLS

Opt for a water-resistant product for the swimmers and sports enthusiasts in the family.

The water resistance of the sunscreen is indicated on the packaging: either 40 or 80 minutes. But remember, any time you wipe your skin with a towel, you remove part of the product and reduce its efficacy. So, it is important to reapply the product even if you haven’t yet reached the water resistance limit.

CONSIDER EASE OF APPLICATION

Consider how easy the product is to apply.

Sunscreens come in various forms: creams, lotions, sprays, sticks, and others, each with its pros and cons. For example:

Creams and lotions are useful for large surfaces. Lotions are runnier, and don’t leave an oily residue the way some creams do, which makes them a good option for the face too.

Sprays are convenient for protecting hard-to-reach parts of the skin but be sure you’re out of the wind when you apply it. Never spray sunscreen directly on the face. Instead, spray it on the palms of your hands, then spread on face.

Sticks are handy for applying sunscreen to the face, as they reduce the risk of getting the product in your eyes. When using a stick to cover large surfaces of skin, make sure you rub the product in thoroughly with your hands so you don’t leave any parts unprotected.

Gels can be a good option for hairy skin (chest, legs, scalp).

No matter which form you prefer, don’t forget your lips! To protect your lips, use a lip balm with an SPF of at least 30 and reapply every hour when you are outdoors.

HOW TO PRESERVE YOUR SUNSCREEN

Protect your sunscreen from extreme temperature.

To prevent sunscreens from deteriorating too fast, always store them away from sources of heat. Do not leave them in the car.

DO NOT NEGLECT AFTER-SUN CARE

Aloe Gel is great for after-sun care since it moisturizes the skins, cools it and helps to prevent peeling. It can also help heal a sunburn, by applying it after a cold shower as it may minimize the inflammation.

Also, since sunburns can get you dehydrated, drink plenty of water.

HOW MUCH SUNSCREEN IS NEEDED TO BE FULLY PROTECTED?

No matter which product you use, apply it regularly and generously.

Even the very best sunscreen will not protect you properly if you don’t apply enough of it. It takes about 7 teaspoons (35 mL) of cream or lotion to cover an adult’s entire body:

• 1 tsp for each arm and leg
• 1 tsp for the front and 1 tsp for the back of the torso
• 1 tsp for the face

Remember to apply sunscreen on these often-forgotten areas: your hands, the tip of your nose and ears, the back of your neck, and the top of your feet.

Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, because its protective effect diminishes over time in the sun. Always reapply after swimming or partaking in an activity where you sweat a lot.

The information contained herein is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide complete information on the subject matter or to replace the advice of a health professional. This information does not constitute medical consultation, diagnosis or opinion and should not be interpreted as such. Please consult your health care provider if you have any questions about your health, medications or treatment.