Book 10, Question 111
Why Use Sunscreen?
We use sunscreen because sunlight has UV rays that can burn skin and harm skin cells! Sunscreen works like a shield, blocking or absorbing some of the rays. Ask a grown-up to help you put it on, and add hats and shade too.
More fun facts
- Sunscreen helps protect against sunburn, skin cancer and early skin aging.
- The sun's rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., so it helps to limit time in the sun then.
- Experts suggest broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher.
- Put sunscreen on again at least every two hours, and more often when swimming or sweating.
- An average sized adult or child needs about one ounce of sunscreen to cover the whole body.
- No sunscreen is waterproof, and all sunscreen washes off in the end.
- Water resistant sunscreen must say on the label whether it lasts 40 or 80 minutes while swimming or sweating.
Sources: U.S. FDA
Questions kids ask
Is it okay to leave sunscreen out in the hot sun?
No. Heat and direct sun can harm it, so keep the bottle in the shade or wrapped in a towel.