Tip of the week: How to use sunscreen correctly
Don’t trust labels; Don’t skimp; Beware of pale fabrics
Don’t trust labels. Tougher FDA labeling requirements won’t go into effect until the end of the year, so sunscreen sold this summer can still carry such misleading claims as “all-day protection” or “sweatproof.” Note that any sunscreen with an SPF of less than 15 is ineffective in lowering the risk of cancer or skin damage.
Don’t skimp. “To get the level of SPF promised on the label, you need to slick on enough for your skin to stay damp for a minute or two.” Think a palmful if you’re wearing a bathing suit. With sprays, apply generously, rub in, “then mist yourself once more to ensure consistent coverage.”
Beware of pale fabrics. Whenever you wear light gauzy fabrics, wear sunscreen underneath. Note that white clothes offer the least protection from the sun because they lack UV-absorbing pigments.
Subscribe to The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.

Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
Source: Better Homes and Gardens
Sign up for Today's Best Articles in your inbox
A free daily email with the biggest news stories of the day – and the best features from TheWeek.com
-
Scientists want to fight malaria by poisoning mosquitoes with human blood
Under the radar Drugging the bugs
By Devika Rao, The Week US Published
-
Crossword: March 31, 2025
The Week's daily crossword
By The Week Staff Published
-
Sudoku medium: March 31, 2025
The Week's daily medium sudoku puzzle
By The Week Staff Published