Studies show that 80% of sun damage occurs by the time a person is 18 years old, so it is imperative to use sunscreen to prevent burning with sun exposure at a very early age.

For the most part, sunscreens with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 50 or 100 are only slightly better than those with an SPF of 15 or 30. What’s key to getting the most benefit from sunscreen is applying it frequently and in a thick layer. Most people put on only one-quarter to one-half of the amount they should and then wipe it off. Apply sunscreen to all exposed areas—the face, ears, hands and arms, in particular—15 to 30 minutes before going outside, and reapply about every two hours or after swimming. Lips need protection from the sun as well, so use a lip balm containing an SPF of 30 or higher.