How to use sunscreen safely

Sunscreen products are cosmetic products that have an important "protective" function against ultraviolet (UV) radiation. There are two types of UV radiation, UVA and UVB.

What is the difference between UVB and UVA radiation?

UVB radiation causes the skin to darken in colour, or in some instances, causes it to burn. UVA penetrates the skin further than UVB causing skin aging. This can lead to  wrinkles and pigmentation. 

Both forms of UV radiation have the potential to cause cancer. It is important consumers use broad spectrum sunscreen to protect the skin from potentially harmful UV rays.

A sunscreen which claims UVA protection must meet specific standards set by the EU. If it meets these standards, it will be labelled with a UVA logo like the one shown below.

What does SPF mean?

SPF or 'sun protection factor' tells you how well a product can protect your skin from UVB rays that cause sunburn.  There are many products on the market which vary in their SPF ratings.

It can be difficult to understand the level of protection an SPF rating can provide. The higher the SPF number, the higher protection you will have but it is important to remember that there is no SPF that will fully block all UVB rays.

Many sunscreen labels also show the category of sun protection:

  • Low (SPF 6 & 10)
  • Medium (SPF 15, 20 & 25)
  • High (SPF 30 & 50)
  • Very high (SPF 50+)

Some helpful tips on reading your sunscreen label

  • Always check the label to make sure that the product has the right amount of sun protection needed for your skin type.
  • Read all of the instructions and warnings on the sunscreen label.
  • Apply the right amount of sunscreen to get the protection claimed on the label.

 

UVA symbol used on sunscreen packaging

UVA symbol

If a sunscreen product contains the EU recommended minimum level of UVA protection, it will be labelled with the above UVA logo.

 

Expiry symbol used on cosmetics packaging

Open jar symbol

The open jar symbol on the packaging of sunscreens indicates the maximum time that the product is safe to use once opened. For example, if  '12M' is on the symbol then this indicates the product is safe to use for 12 months after opening.

 

Tips on how to use and store sunscreen 

How much sunscreen should I use?

The average sized adult should be using at least six full teaspoons of sunscreen to give the indicated protection. Using less than this will decrease the SPF/ UVA protection of the product. 

For children, the amount of sunscreen needed depends on their height and weight. 

You should apply sunscreen 20 minutes before you go outside and reapply at least every two hours.

Use by dates on sunscreen 

The open jar symbol should be on all sunscreen packages. It shows the maximum time the product is safe to use once open. For example, if  '12M' is on the symbol then the product is safe to use for 12 months after opening. See the open jar symbol above.

If a sunscreen has been opened the previous year and still within the timeline of the open jar symbol, it should be checked to make sure it hasn't separated before using.

How to store your sunscreen

Sunscreens should be stored in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight or as detailed on the label of the product.

What to look for when buying sunscreens

Sunscreens should only be purchased from a reputable source where the product can be traced to a supplier. You should: 

  • Check for a European address on the label. If it is not there, it might indicate that the product has been imported from outside the EU and may not meet European requirements for safety assessment. 
  • Choose a level of protection appropriate for your skin type that includes both UVA and UVB (SPF) protection. 

For further information on sensible sun exposure, please visit the HSE's SunSmart campaign.