How to Protect Your Skin from Sun Rays

Almost every household has sunscreen, yet many people do not know how to use it properly. Some resort to a quick application just before jumping into the water or stepping out of the house. To provide your skin with perfect protection from sun damage, there are a few things you should know and apply.

Sunscreens are intended for local application on the skin. Some products absorb the sun's ultraviolet radiation (chemical products), while others physically reflect the sun's rays.

Efficiency of the Product

You've surely noticed that every sunscreen lists an SPF (Sun Protection Factor). This is a laboratory measure of the effectiveness of a sunscreen. The higher the SPF, the better protection it offers against UVB radiation, which is the type of sunlight that causes burns.

SPF is the amount of UV radiation needed to cause a sunburn when using the sunscreen compared to the amount needed without the sunscreen. No standard exists for measuring the effectiveness of protection against UVA radiation, which is also harmful.

Some view SPF too simplistically. They believe that if a sunburn would appear after an hour without protection, using SPF 15 would allow for 15 hours in the sun. This is not true, as sunscreen is not always applied in the required amount. Furthermore, activities like swimming or sweating reduce the effectiveness.

Use of the Product: Additionally, using sunscreen might create a false sense of security. People may think they are fully protected and stay too long in the sun. In reality, incorrect or insufficient sunscreen application exposes people to high levels of solar radiation, increasing risks such as skin cancer. Most dermatologists and health authorities suggest using SPF 30 or more. However, people with darker skin can use SPF 15, and those with lighter skin can settle for SPF 15 when the sun's intensity is weaker.

Costs: There is no significant advantage to very expensive creams or those with extremely high SPF. The main importance is to have enough sunscreen to apply generously. It's vital to use enough sunscreen before sun exposure and reapply multiple times while exposed. If you purchase expensive products, you may not apply the necessary amount or frequency.

Clalit customers can buy sunscreens at Clalit pharmacies with up to 45% discount. Clalit Mushlam members are entitled to up to 70% discount.

 Water Resistance: Pay attention to the difference between a water-resistant sunscreen and a waterproof one.

A water-resistant product maintains its SPF for 40 minutes after water exposure. A waterproof product maintains its SPF for 80 minutes. Therefore, for those engaging in water sports or prone to sweating, waterproof products are recommended.

Side Effects: The chemicals in sunscreens can cause rashes known as contact dermatitis. Hypoallergenic sunscreens are recommended. They can also clog skin pores or worsen existing rashes, so non-comedogenic sunscreens are advised. The effects usually fade when use is discontinued.

Infant Sun Exposure: Until now, we discussed adults and children. But do sunscreens protect infants? Ideally, infants under 6 months should not be exposed to sun. Their skin is thinner, and their body surface area is larger relative to weight, making them more sensitive to the chemicals in sunscreens. Additionally, infants' sweating and cooling mechanisms are less developed, putting them at risk of overheating and dehydration.

Expiration Date: Regarding expiration - most sunscreens have a shelf life of three years, so the FDA does not require an expiration date, only production date. However, some products expire in less than three years, and these must have an expiration date printed. Always check if the sunscreen is still valid.

Expired sunscreen loses its effectiveness. If you doubt its validity, it's better to discard and buy new.

Tips for Proper Sunscreen Use

1. Sun rays are particularly strong at noon, so avoid exposure at this time.

2. Use sunscreens that shield against both UVB and UVA rays.

3. Apply a thick layer of sunscreen on your skin to receive full protection as per its SPF.

4. Apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before sun exposure.

5. Reapply sunscreen repeatedly during sun exposure.

6. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sun-protective clothing.

7. Seawater or pool water enhances sun rays, requiring more frequent application.

8. It's preferable to use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Darker-skinned individuals can use SPF 15.

9. Remember, sunscreen does not provide complete protection from sun damage, so minimize sun exposure as much as possible.

Safety Rules for Parents and Children

With summer vacation approaching, Clalit experts offer key safety rules for children:

1. Avoid sun exposure as much as possible from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

2. When exposed to the sun, wear shirts with sleeves and apply sunscreen with at least SPF 15 on exposed skin, reapplying after swimming.

3. Stay in the shade as much as possible.

4. Drink plenty of fluids (preferably water), even without thirst.

5. Remember that sand, water, asphalt, and walls reflect sun rays, adding to direct solar radiation, so adhere to the protection guidelines.

6. If sunburned, hydrate well and cool the body with cold water baths.

7. Seek medical help if blisters appear or if there are fever or dehydration signs.

8. Swimming in the sea or pool must be done under lifeguard supervision. Do not swim where there's no active lifeguard station, even if the sea appears calm. Follow the lifeguard's instructions and explain the flag system and sea hazards to children.

9. During the summer vacation, kids often play outside for hours, sometimes near roads, posing risks of traffic accidents. Explain road dangers and ensure they play in secure playgrounds not immediately near roads.

10. If the child goes alone to the pickup and drop-off point for camps, ensure they have a safe route with crosswalks or traffic lights for safely crossing roads.

11. If the child rides a bicycle, instill the habit of wearing protective gear – helmets and elbow and wrist guards.

Maintain Proper Nutrition During "Bein Hazmanim"

"Bein Hazmanim" are times of vacation and rest, often leading to excessive and unbalanced eating, resulting in weight gain. Therefore, it's crucial even during these days to maintain healthy eating habits for good health.

Nutritionists at Clalit Dan - Petah Tikva often hear patient complaints after Bein Hazmanim about neglecting dietary rules. 'Clalit' experts offer these tips: Plan meal schedules with your children. Prepare individual portions that can be microwaved.

For quick meals, use frozen carbohydrates (corn, peas, chickpeas), ready-roasted chicken, etc. Add a vegetable salad for a complete meal. Avoid fast food purchases and limit outsidefood intake. If buying food outdoors, prefer skewers, chicken, or grilled fish with vegetables.

Reduce the purchase of snacks and high-calorie foods. Prepare healthy snacks like cut vegetables, fruits, popcorn, and diet popsicles.

Drink plenty – prefer water, and if sweetened drinks are consumed, choose low-calorie options.

Encourage your child to engage in physical activity and join them. Set up a daily activity plan including swimming, walking, or cycling to make exercising a fun, family bonding experience. Minimize boredom at home and eating out of boredom.

Remember! Parents are role models for healthy eating and influence children's health and lifestyle choices.