Those of us who live in the Sunshine State know how important it is to use sunscreen.
But using it the wrong way can be just as bad as not using it at all, warns the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Here are five common sunscreen mistakes and how to avoid them, courtesy of the organization.
Ignoring the label.
There's a wide variety of sunscreens on the market. To effectively protect yourself, look for ones that are broad-spectrum, water-resistant and have an SPF of 30 or higher.
Using too little.
Most people only apply 25 percent to 50 percent of the recommended amount of sunscreen. However, to fully cover their body, most adults need about one ounce of sunscreen – enough to fill a shot glass.
Applying only in sunny weather.
The AAD found that only about 20 percent of Americans use sunscreen on cloudy days. However, even when it’s cloudy, up to 80 percent of UV rays can penetrate your skin.
Using an old bottle.
The FDA requires that sunscreens retain their original strength for at least three years. Throw out yours if it’s expired or you’re unsure how long you’ve had it. If you buy sunscreen without an expiration date, write the purchase date directly on the bottle.
Relying solely on sunscreen.
Since no sunscreen can block 100 percent of the sun’s rays, it’s important to seek shade and wear protective clothing, including a lightweight, long-sleeved shirt; pants; a wide-brimmed hat; and sunglasses with UV protection.
Visit doyouuseprotection.org.