A sunscreen is a product that you apply to your skin for some protection against the sun’s UV rays, although it does not provide total protection. Sunscreens are available in many forms — lotions, creams, ointments, gels, wipes, and lip balms, to name a few.

While many cosmetics, foundations, and lipsticks list the contain sunscreen you do not exactly slop it on, you gently apply it, and usually as little as is needed. In order to obtain the full 15 SPF or 30 SPF protection sunscreen should be slopped on allowing the skin to absorb it giving full protection as listed. Cosmetics, foundations, lipstick and other make-up without sunscreen does not provide sun protection. Check the labels to find out.

(Click on our prevention steps for more information)

Cover up.

Use a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher.

Read the labels.

Be sure to apply the sunscreen properly.

Be generous with sunscreen.

Wear a hat.

Wear sunglasses that block UV rays.

Limit direct sun exposure during midday.

Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps.