Sun
Protection
FAQ
Have a query? We’ve got you covered with some frequently
asked questions so you can stay all year sun protected.
How can I be Sun Smart?
Be Sun Smart by following these 5 simple steps before going outdoors, especially between 10am to 4pm:
- SLIP ON some sun-protective clothing
- RUB ON a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30+ or higher sunscreen
- SLAP ON a broad-brimmed hat that protects your face, head, neck and ears
- POP ON a pair of sunglasses
- SEEK shade wherever possible
Being outside and unprotected when UltraViolet radiation (UVA and UVB) levels are high can increase your risk of skin cancer2a.
It is recommended to re-apply sunscreen every two hours depending on the UV index12.
Did You
Know
Year round exposure to high ultraviolet radiation from the sun together with SA’s geographic position makes South Africans especially susceptible to skin cancer5c?
That your risk of developing a potentially deadly melanoma doubles with a history of 5 or more sunburns13a?
How do I know which is the right SPF I need?
According to CANSA, at a minimum always an SPF 20 up to 50, but more if your skin is fair to very fair then at least an SPF 30 to 505d. But make sure it has not expired by checking the expiry date.
How do I properly apply a spray sunscreen?
Apply liberally to all exposed skin, pay special attention to the back of the neck, tips of the ears, arms, feet and hands5e. Apply sunscreen 20 minutes before you go outside into the sun. Remember to re-apply regularly (at least every 2 hours) and after towel drying, sweating or swimming5f.
My everyday face lotion has SPF in it, is it safe to just use this for outdoor activities?
Everyday face lotions are great for minimal or incidental exposure to the sun. But to ensure you are best protected during prolonged outdoor activities, make sure you apply sunscreen that is a minimum of SPF 20, and that you apply it every 2 hours (depending on your skin type) more so if you are swimming or sweating as per CANSA recommendations5f.
What questions about skin type should I consider when choosing sun protection?
No matter your skin type every Sun Warrior should use an SPF 20 sunscreen when being exposed to the UVA and UVB rays. But by understanding your skin type you can make informed choices on the best Sun Protection Factor. Of the 6 skin types those with type 1 and 2 are at the highest risk of developing skin cancer, while types 5 and 6 are at the lowest risk14.
I like to wear makeup. Can I apply sunscreen on first and then put the makeup on over it?
Yes, for best protection, sunscreen should be applied directly to the skin underneath any kind of makeup15.
Does having a tan mean you don't need as much sunscreen?
A tan is a sign that the skin has been damaged. Tanning without sunburn can still cause premature ageing and increase risk of skin cancer5g. So rather be safe and apply an SPF factor 20 sunscreen5d.
What does water-resistance mean?
Sun protection products can be rated water resistant for 40 or 80 minutes, this means how long the sunscreen can remain effective while swimming or sweating16. Just because they are water resistant does not mean they are waterproof. You can burn even when you are in the water. Remember to reapply every 2 hours and when getting in and out of the water and towel-drying5f,17.
I am Sunburnt what should I do?
Hopefully you learn from the burn and ensure you never get sunburnt again! To ease your discomfort, try the following: cool down (stay cool), moisturise, hydrate, after sun gel. As the body heats up due to the burn keeping cool is key, so either a quick dip in the water (but be sure to keep out of the sun to prevent further burn) or a cool shower or bath. Apply moisturiser while the body is still damp (you want to avoid any ointment that will trap the heat and make it worse). Hydration is key to replenishing fluids drawn by burns. Applying an after sun gel will normally help with discomfort if they contain aloe vera13b.
What makes Island Tribe Sun Protection so special?
- World-class sunscreen formulas, now distributed in 25 countries worldwide.
- Recognized by the CANSA Organisation as sun protection products to help prevent skin cancer.
- Island Tribe sunscreens are clinically researched and developed by leading sunscreen laboratories in both South Africa and Australia.
- Designed to give protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
- For daily use. High protection-factor formulations ( 30 / 40 / 50 ).
- Water resistant sun protection for water sport enthusiasts, for use before and after water sports.
- Wide variety of product formulations, including a range specifically for kids.
- “Light feel” applications enhance cosmetic acceptability.
- Soothing after-sun formula.
– Helpful Tips to Stay Sun Protected –
Use sunscreen frequently and generously
- Apply water-resistant sunscreen and lip balm with an SPF of 30 or greater and broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays.
- About 15 to 30 minutes before going outdoors, apply sunscreen generously on skin that won’t be protected by clothing.
- Apply more sunscreen every 40 to 80 minutes, or sooner if it has washed off from swimming or sweating.
- Throw sunscreen away if it’s expired or more than three years old.
Sun protection for babies and toddlers
- Use other forms of sun protection, such as shade or UV resistant clothing for babies and toddlers. Keep them cool and hydrated.
- Sunscreens can be used on babies and toddlers when sun protective clothing and shade are not available. The best products for them are those that contain physical blockers (titanium oxide, zinc oxide), as they may cause less skin irritation18.
– Helpful Tips to Stay Sun Protected –
Use sunscreen frequently and generously
- Apply water-resistant sunscreen and lip balm with an SPF of 30 or greater and broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays.
- About 15 to 30 minutes before going outdoors, apply sunscreen generously on skin that won’t be protected by clothing.
- Apply more sunscreen every 40 to 80 minutes, or sooner if it has washed off from swimming or sweating.
- Throw sunscreen away if it’s expired or more than three years old.
Sun protection for babies and toddlers
- Use other forms of sun protection, such as shade or UV resistant clothing for babies and toddlers Keep them cool and hydrated.
- Sunscreens can be used on babies and toddlers when sun protective clothing and shade aren’t available. The best products for them are those that contain physical blockers (titanium oxide, zinc oxide), as they may cause less skin irritation18.