With summer in full swing, many Canadians are soaking in the sunshine while mindful about the dangers of UV exposure. Ultraviolet rays from the sun and artificial light can not only cause sunburn, wrinkles, uneven pigmentation and sagging of the skin, they're also the main cause for skin cancer, doctors say. One of the most important ways to protect yourself and minimize the risk? Wear sunscreen.
You'll have plenty of choices when it comes to sunscreen. They come in an array of formulas such as lotion, cream, spray, stick or gel (with mineral and/or organic or chemical filters), prices and packaging from multiple brands. CTVNews.
ca spoke with dermatologists about what to look for when choosing a sunscreen. Sunscreens have filters blocking out the harmful UV rays, says Dr. Harvey Lui, a dermatologist and professor of dermatology and skin science at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver.
When the rays reach the skin, they can damage it and even cause skin cancer, which can be deadly if not caught and treated in time. Regardless of the type of sunscreen, formula, brand or price, wearing any sunscreen is better than none and it's important to apply them correctly, say dermatologists. First, choose a broad spectrum sunscreen, indicated on the product.
It means it will protect you from different types of ultraviolet light called UVA and UVB, Lui says. The product should have a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. This essentially means it will take 30 times longer .