The secret to a smooth, glowing complexion isn't a newfangled potion with some kind of magical ingredient. As a former sun worshipper, I can tell you what I wish I'd known all my life: You have to save your own skin--by using sunscreen! Wear it every day to prevent premature wrinkles, not to mention skin cancer, which is now the most common cancer in America. (A million cases are diagnosed every year.) No matter how hot you think a tan looks, the long-term results--enlarged pores, brown spots, sandpaper-rough skin--won't be attractive. To protect your skin (and your life), learn these numbers. You'll preserve your skin and your health while still having fun in the sun.
1: ounces of sunscreen you need to cover your entire body. (That's roughly the contents of a shot glass.)
2: hours between sunscreen applications if you're outside. Even SPF 100 won't protect you all day.
3: years a bottle of sunscreen lasts on the shelf, on average; lotions kept in the car or a steamy bathroom might not stay effective as long.
6: hours during the day (between 10 A.M. and 4 P.M.) when the sun's rays are strongest. Wear a hat and long sleeves, or stay in a shaded area if possible.
20: percent chance you'll be diagnosed with skin cancer in your lifetime. If you're Caucasian, your risk jumps to 33 percent.
30: minutes before sun exposure you need to apply sunscreen for full protection. Skin needs time to absorb it, so don't wait until you get outside.
40: minutes a water-resistant sunscreen protects while you're in the water. Reapply after toweling off.
80: percentage you reduced your risk for skin cancer if you used sunscreen regularly as a child. Have kids? Slather it on them often.
93: percentage of rays an SPF 15 sunscreen blocks. SPF 30 blocks about 97 percent. When you have the choice, pick the latter. Every little bit counts!
100: percent chance you need a sunscreen if it's daytime. UV rays penetrate clouds and bounce off water, sand and other surfaces.
Snag more facts, figures, news and tips on bypassing sunburns this summer at Self.com.
