Stay Out of the Sun Day: Protect Your Skin by Applying Sunscreen Thoroughly

Today is Stay Out of the Sun Day. This informal awareness day reminds you that sun protection is more than just slathering on some sunscreen. We’ll explain what to look for when it comes to sunscreen, sun protection factors, children, and medications that make your skin more sensitive.

What is Stay Out of the Sun Day?

Stay Out of the Sun Day is an online, international initiative organized by several organizations and takes place every year on July 3. Think of this day as a reminder: seek shade, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen thoroughly. KWF emphasizes that UV radiation can damage your skin. Frequent sunburns increase the risk of skin cancer.

Choose sunscreen with SPF 30 and a UVA filter

Preferably use a product with at least SPF 30. SPF indicates how well a product protects against UVB radiation, the type of radiation that primarily causes sunburn. A good product also protects against UVA radiation. You can recognize this by the letters “UVA” enclosed in a circle. The lighter your skin, the faster you’ll get sunburned. Start protecting yourself at sun index 3. At sun index 5 or higher, the risk of skin damage is high.

Apply enough and reapply on time

Many people use too little sunscreen. As a result, the protection is lower than you think. KWF recommends 7 teaspoons per application: 1 for the face and neck, 2 for the arms and shoulders, 2 for the chest, stomach, and back, and 2 for the legs and feet. Don’t forget your ears, lips, and the tops of your feet. Reapply every 2 hours and after swimming.

Cream, lotion, or spray?

Creams, lotions, and sprays can provide good protection if you use enough. With a spray, you often use too little because not all of it reaches the skin. A lotion or cream is usually easier to apply in the right amount.

Take extra care with children and medications

The same applies to children: use at least SPF 30 with a UVA filter. Keep babies under 1 year old completely out of the sun. Some medications can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. This is called phototoxicity: your skin reacts too strongly to UV light. Examples include doxycycline and sulfadiazine, which are prescription antibiotics. Isotretinoin and adapalene for acne, as well as tacrolimus for eczema, also require extra caution.

What can you do yourself?

Sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, and after-sun lotion are available over the counter. After-sun lotion may feel cooling, but it does not help sunburned skin heal any faster. If you experience pain, you can usually take acetaminophen. Do not use ibuprofen, naproxen, or diclofenac without consulting us first if you are taking blood thinners, diuretics, or blood pressure medications. Ask us for advice first.

Do not store sunscreen in a place that’s too warm. Once opened, a product is often good for 12 months; look for the “12M” label on the opened container. Heat can reduce the SPF.

Take the KWF sun quiz and test what you already know. Also read the advice on the sun and sunburn on Thuisarts.nl and check your medication on Apotheek.nl. We’d be happy to help. We know you, your doctor knows you, and you know us. That way, you get personalized guidance from your trusted local pharmacy. You can also handle a lot of things online with us.