Sunscreen

A: Yes, some sunscreens are labelled as sport products and are suitable because they have been specially formulated to stay on the skin during sport.

A: The Canadian Dermatology Association supports the use of sunscreen as an effective and safe means to provide protection from the sun's harmful rays. There is strong scientific evidence of the adverse effects of UV exposure in contrast to the hypothetical negative effects of sunscreen on your health. Seeking shade, wearing protective clothing and using a broad spectrum sunscreen all help in providing safe sun protection.

A: If you have sensitive skin, try a small amount of the product on your arm and check for any reaction up to 48 hours later. People allergic or intolerant to the chemicals in sunscreens should look for products labelled "chemical‐free". These usually contain ingredients such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide that reflect rather than absorb the sun's rays and are much less likely to cause a reaction.

A: In general, children under the age of two have more sensitive skin, but generally do not have problems with the use of sunscreens. It is important to note that many people can react to preservatives or fragrances contained in many products such as moisturizers, soaps or sunscreens, and this is much more common than reacting to an actual sunscreen filter.

A: You should apply sunscreen generously and evenly before sun exposure to allow the active ingredients to bond to your skin. To be effective, all sunscreens need to be liberally applied; for example, one palm‐full for each arm and one for each leg. Also, remember to reapply regularly, especially after sweating heavily or swimming.

A: Sunscreens contain chemicals that eventually break down, compromising the effectiveness of the product, so you should not use a sunscreen after its expiry date. Also, sunscreens are often kept in hot temperatures ‐ In the glove compartment of a car or in a beach bag ‐ conditions which accelerate the deterioration of the product.