As cases of skin cancer continue to rise, there's an increasing need for individuals to invest in products that protect the skin against the harmful UV radiation. Sunscreen is one of the essential skincare products that should always be a part of your regimen before you step out of the house. However, even after investing in a sunscreen product with a high SPF of at least 30, most people don't know how to use the products correctly. Below are some valuable tips on how to get the most out of your sunscreen.

Get the Right Product

The first step to protecting your skin from UV radiation is getting the right sunscreen product. There are numerous products in the market, but not all offer total protection from the sun's rays. Below are some of the key features of a good sunscreen:

• Should have an SPF of 30 or higher
• Should protect against both UVA and UVB rays
• Must maintain its integrity when exposed to the sun

As you choose a product, pay attention to your skin type. Some sunscreens are comedogenic and block pores; therefore, if you have oily skin or are prone to acne, these can worsen the condition. Go for non-comedogenic sunscreens that feel good on the skin and won't leave you with a white cast.

Apply the Recommended Thickness

For maximum protection, you are required to lather on sunscreen in thick layers. However, most people ignore this recommendation and go for thin layers that do little to protect the skin. When using sunscreen products, more is always better. You can never have too much sun protection.

Note that no matter how effective a product claims to be, most wear out within two or three hours of sun exposure. Therefore, if you're out in the sun for extended periods, you have to reapply the product for continued protection. This is especially important during the summer when most people spend extended hours on the beach or out in the sun. Carry your sunscreen in your bag so you can reapply as needed.

Use Sunscreen at All Times

There's a common misconception that you don't need to wear sunscreen at all times. It is also assumed that people with black skin don't need sunscreen and you don't need to wear sunscreen during the winter. Most of these allegations are untrue. Every skin type is prone to suffer when exposed to UV radiation, regardless of the colour. The only difference is that it's hard to detect sun damage on dark skin, but this doesn't mean one should go without sunscreen. As long as it's not dark outside, like at night, UV rays are present, and you need SPF regardless of the season. 

Follow these simple tips to get the most out of your sunscreen and keep skin cancer and other forms of skin damage at bay.

To learn more, contact a supplier that sells products like Cancer Council sunscreen.