Fun in the Sun - Choosing a Sunscreen that is Right for You

When it comes to sunscreen, more is always better. Everyone should wear sunscreen when spending any length of time outdoors.

For those going out in the sun off and on daily a sunscreen with a SPF (sun protection factor) of 30 is fine.

You should always apply the sunscreen a minimum of 30 minutes before going outside. It gives the chemicals a chance to activate. Once outside you should reapply on a regular basis.

If you are in direct sunlight you should reapply every two hours. If you are swimming or active and sweating you should reapply every hour. No sunscreen is truly waterproof or powerful enough for all daywear without reapplying.

A sunscreen with an SPF of 30 provides 93% protection from the sun's UVB (ultra violet) rays. While a SPF of 50 provides 97% protection.

Make sure you apply sunscreen liberally to your children. Sunscreen has not been tested on babies younger than 6 months of age so they should be kept out of the sun. Protective clothing and shade from a beach umbrella is a good place for baby.

When applying sunscreen on older babies and children pay close attention to ears, noses, and necks. Wearing a hat is also a good idea to protect the scalp from sunburns. Waterproof sunscreen for children only last about 30 minutes, so remember to keep reapplying.

Check the expiration date on your sunscreen. Like anything else it does expire. I buy new sunscreen each summer.

The real key using sunscreen daily is finding one that is right for you. I use Oil of Olay daily wear if I am only going out for a brief period of time. It isn't greasy and you can wear it alone or under makeup. I don't like the bulky sunscreens that make my face feel like I have clown makeup on.

For the days when my sun exposure is higher I like Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch SPF 50. It feels heavier on the skin and the smell takes some getting used to but it is less greasier than other ones I have tried. My husband will also use this. He says it doesn't smell girly.

For the kids I like Babyface's with an SPF of 50. I can use this on both my 1 year old and my 6 year old. It has a pleasant smell it goes on white, so you can tell where it has been applied, but as it sinks into the skin it becomes clear. I am a fanatic about applying sunscreen to my children. It is estimated that 80% of sun damage is done to your skin by the time you reach 18.

You should use sunscreen on your family on all occasions. Being tanned or naturally dark skinned isn't proper protection against the suns harmful rays. Don't be fooled by a cloudy day. Clouds block only about 20% of UVB rays.

Experiment with different sunscreens to find which one works best for you and your family. After finding your brand pack the kids and sunscreen and prepare for a day of fun in the sun.