Sunscreen Facts
and Information

Sunscreen facts are hard to come by, sometimes because there are so many myths and misnomers. 

People are often confused and have lots of questions like:

• How Does Sunscreen Work
• What's The Difference Between Sunscreen and Sunblock
• How Long Does Sunscreen Last
• What About Sunscreen Expiration Dates
• Where Can I get More Sunscreen Information
• How Do I Know If I Have Sunscreen Allergies
• How Safe Are Sunscreen Chemicals

Well, if you have questions about sunscreens, you've come to the right page.

We'll try to sort out and answer the most common questions and present fast facts about sunscreen usage and benefits.

Difference Between Sunscreen and Sunblock

Sunscreen and sunblock are two separate things.

Sunscreen is considered a chemical barrier to the sun rays.

But a sunblock is usually thicker and is physical barrier and is considered safer -by some folks- because there are less chemicals to be absorbed.

A good example of a safe sunblock is Zinc Oxide Sunscreen.

Which is not really a "sunscreen" but actually a physical sun blocking cream and now a days it comes totally clear or in all sorts of colors that make it more fun to wear.

Sunscreen Information and Facts

If you're a skier, knowing the importance of sunscreen is your best defense against the damaging effects of the sun.

The sun reflects more than eighty percent more power off of snow, compared to seventeen percent off of sand, and gets even more powerful in the higher elevations.

So pay close attention to your face, ears and hands. 

Sunscreen Allergies have been on the rise over the last 20 years. Some people suffer an allergic reaction  to chemicals, preservatives, and fragrances found in sunscreens. Learn more about it here.

Sunscreen Expiration

Sunscreen manufacturers are required to make sure that their product is shelf stable for up to three years. So if you have some left over from last year, you should be able to use it up this year, without any trouble. 

In order for sunscreen to work properly you need to use enough of it to cover exposed areas. That means you have to use about an ounce.

That’s as much as fits in a shot glass. So, really, if you use sunscreen like you are supposed to, you will go through a bottle of it pretty quickly.

How Long Does Sunscreen Last

Always remember to reapply your sunscreen, especially if you are playing in the water. This means that you need to reapply your sunscreen within forty minutes after being in the water if it is water resistant, or eighty minutes if it is water proof.

The same rules apply if you’ve been sweating up a storm from exercise. 

Getting sunscreen facts are easy. Remembering them are easy too. Take them to heart and follow the rules. It will keep you safe while you have fun in the sun.

Also, always check the expiration date on your sunscreen product. Most are only effective for about 2 years or so. You can usually find the date stamped on the bottom of the bottle or tube.

Sunscreen Effectiveness

Recent research suggests that not all sunscreens were made equal. Some researchers are even suggesting that certain sunscreens may not protect us against certain skin cancer like melanoma or basal cell carcinoma.

In addition to basic sunscreen facts, there is some question as to the safety of the chemicals used in many popular sunscreens.

Scientist believe that certain common sunscreen chemicals may alter estrogen levels in the body, affect our DNA, cause cell damage - and even cancer. 

Click here Sun Safety to read more about sunscreen facts and to see if your favorite sunscreen contains any of these chemicals.

Sunscreen Facts - Additional Reading

Best Sunscreens - What makes the best sunscreens? What is the most effective sunscreen? Click here to learn more.

Sunscreen and Acne - What should you look for when choosing a sun protection product for acne skin?

SPF Clothing - Want more protection against the sun? Consider SPF clothing like shirts and hats.