The Real Deal: How much to spend on skin protection this summer
You can spend anywhere from $5 to $40 or $50 on sunscreen, so does price really matter?
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As we start heading to the beach and pools protecting your skin is a must, but how do you know how much to spend on sunscreen?
You can spend anywhere from $5 to $40 or $50 on sunscreen, so does price really matter
News 12’s Consumer Reporter Janice Lieberman checked in with a dermatologist.
Sunbathing is a luxury, but using the right protection is a necessity for everyone over the age of 6 months every day.
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Dermatologist David Bank says most people don’t use sunscreen correctly.
“If you're going to be in direct sunlight, then you actually need to reapply it every two hours,” says Banks.
What is the best sunscreen? Although it can seem overwhelming, there really are only a small number of FDA approved active ingredients.
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When you start to read the labels, they start to all look the same. They can be broken down into two major groups - mineral oil sunscreens, which are zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
Doctors say the price is not reflective of how much sun protection you're getting, it’s based on the SPF number on the bottle.
So you can pay a smaller amount in the pharmacy, you can pay a larger amount at the department store - but in terms of the actual protection you're getting, it's the same.
If you choose to use spray, make sure it’s not just going into the wind and every part of your body is covered.
Plus, don’t rely on makeup to help cover up and don’t forget your lips.
The worst place to store sunscreen is in a hot place like a glove compartment where elements can break down and not be as affected.
Dr. Banks says the best sunscreen is the sunscreen you will actually use.
Lastly, stock up on sunscreen at the end of the season, when it’s on clearance and put it away for next year.
