Suntan lotion, according to Net Wellness, is a lotion that is used when you go out into the sun. Suntan lotion, which may also be called sunscreen or sun block, helps to block ultraviolet rays from the sun that can damage the skin and cause cancer. In order to be effective, sun protection products should protect the skin from UVA and UVB sunrays. Products that meet this criteria are considered broad spectrum sunscreens. Because the sun can damage skin year round, you must wear sunscreen daily---not just when you will spend a lot of time in the sun.
Step 1
Shake the bottle of suntan lotion to ensure that all ingredients are well-mixed.
Step 2
Place the suntan lotion in your hand and spread it over all areas of the body that will be exposed to the sun. If you are wearing thin clothing, apply the sunscreen on areas under the clothing. Use approximately one handful of sunscreen to cover your entire body.
Step 3
Apply the sunscreen at least 30 minutes but not longer than two hours before heading outside, recommends Medline Plus.
Step 4
Reapply suntan lotion at least every two hours. The American Academy of Dermatology states that even water resistant products can wear off after only 40 minutes in the water. Suntan lotion also wears off if you rub your skin or sweat, so reapply the lotion if you towel off or perspire.
Tips and Warnings
- Each product is marked with an SPF or sun protection factor. Products with a higher SPF protect the skin better than products with a lower SPF. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends using a product with an SPF of at least 15. Suntan lotion must stay at their original strength for three years or until the expiration date on the packaging so it can usually be used for more than one year.
- Suntan lotions shouldn't be used on an infant younger than six months old unless the infant can't be covered or protected from the sun with clothing and/or shade.
