Summer in Canada brings long days, beautiful sunshine, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. But with that sunlight comes an often-overlooked risk: ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Whether you’re hitting the trails in Banff, paddling in Algonquin Park, or just enjoying a walk in your neighbourhood, protecting your skin from the sun is essential. Sunscreen is one of the simplest yet most effective tools we have to prevent sunburns, premature aging, and even skin cancer. Despite its proven benefits, many people still skip it or use it incorrectly. Here’s why sunscreen matters and how to apply it properly for maximum protection.
Why Sunscreen Is Essential
1. Protects Against Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in Canada. According to the Canadian Dermatology Association, one in every three cancers diagnosed worldwide is a skin cancer, and melanoma is one of the most dangerous types. Regular use of sunscreen can significantly reduce the risk of developing these cancers by blocking harmful UVA and UVB rays, which can damage the DNA in skin cells and lead to mutations.
2. Prevents Premature Aging
UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and are largely responsible for signs of aging such as wrinkles, loss of elasticity, and age spots. Daily sunscreen use helps maintain a youthful complexion by preventing this kind of long-term damage, even when the sun isn’t visibly strong.
3. Reduces Risk of Sunburn
A painful sunburn can occur after just 15 minutes of exposure without protection, especially during the peak UV hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Sunburn not only causes short-term pain but also increases your lifetime risk of skin cancer, especially if you’ve had multiple burns.
4. Protects All Skin Tones
A common myth is that people with darker skin don’t need sunscreen. While melanin offers some natural protection, it’s not enough to prevent UV damage entirely. Everyone, regardless of skin tone, benefits from regular sunscreen use.
How to Choose the Right Sunscreen
Choosing a sunscreen can be overwhelming with all the options on store shelves. Here’s what to look for:
- Broad-spectrum protection: This means the sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
- SPF 30 or higher: SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays. Higher SPFs offer slightly more protection, but no sunscreen blocks 100%.
- Water-resistant: Ideal for swimming or sweating, though it still needs to be reapplied every 40–80 minutes.
- Formulation: Whether you prefer lotion, spray, stick, or gel is personal. Just make sure it suits your skin type—look for non-comedogenic if you have acne-prone skin, for example.
How to Apply Sunscreen Properly
Even the best sunscreen won’t work if it’s not applied correctly. Here’s how to get it right:
1. Use Enough
Adults need about 30 mL (about a shot glass full) to cover their entire body. Most people apply less than half that amount, significantly reducing the level of protection.
2. Apply Before Sun Exposure
Apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before heading outdoors. This allows it time to bind to the skin and start working effectively.
3. Don’t Miss Key Areas
Commonly missed spots include:
- Ears
- Back of the neck
- Tops of the feet
- Hands
- Along the hairline
- Scalp (especially if you’re bald or have thinning hair)
- Lips (use a lip balm with SPF)
4. Reapply Often
Reapply every two hours, or immediately after swimming, sweating, or towel drying—even if the sunscreen is water-resistant. Set a timer if needed—it’s easy to lose track of time outdoors.
5. Wear Sunscreen Year-Round
UV rays can penetrate clouds and reflect off snow and water, meaning sun damage can happen in all seasons. Incorporate sunscreen into your daily routine, just like brushing your teeth.
Tips for Kids and Sensitive Skin
- Use mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for babies over six months and people with sensitive skin.
- For babies under six months, keep them out of direct sunlight and use protective clothing instead.
- Test a small amount of sunscreen on the inside of the wrist to check for allergic reactions before applying it all over.
Additional Sun Protection Measures
Sunscreen is vital, but it’s just one part of a full sun safety routine. For optimal protection:
- Wear wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses.
- Seek shade when the sun is at its strongest.
- Wear light, long-sleeved clothing with a tight weave.
- Check the UV Index daily, and take extra precautions when it’s 3 or higher.
Skin Protection Is Always Key
In a country with such a varied climate as Canada’s, it’s easy to forget how powerful the sun can be. But whether you’re soaking up rays on a July afternoon or skiing on a sunny February morning, your skin is always at risk. Making sunscreen a daily habit is a small effort with enormous long-term benefits. By choosing the right product and applying it properly, you’re investing in your skin’s health and your overall well-being.
So the next time you head outside, don’t forget your sunscreen—it’s your skin’s best defence against the sun.