In order to choose the best sport sunscreen, you need to balance a number of needs. This means finding the cream that protects you for the amount of time you are outside and while doing whatever sport you need to do. Sport sunscreen is not intended as a way to control your suntan without getting sun burnt; it is about providing total protection so you do not have to worry about your skin when playing a particular sport.
Sport sunscreen is also known as suntan lotion and sun block, but whatever the name, the lotion performs the same function. The sunscreen lotions are divided primarily by the amount of protection they provide an individual. This protection is known as the sun protection factor or SPF, and the higher the number, the greater the protection the lotion provides. These lotions are also differentiated by ultra violet (UV) protection and by their ingredients.
First, you need to know what activities you will be doing and for how long. It is also important to know about the weather for the day, but being cloudy does not always protect you from sunburn. If you are going to be outside for a long time, you are going to need a long-lasting sport sunscreen. On the other hand, if you are going to be doing activities that involve water such as canoeing and surfing, then you will need a waterproof sunscreen.
Know your local environment. Certain areas of the world are more prone to ultra violet damage, and so when playing sports in these areas, your sport sunscreen should have a high UVB level as well as a high SPF. Talk with your local doctor or dermatologist for advice on what sport sunscreen to use or what level of protection you require. Ask friends and sports colleagues for advice, but remember their methods work for them and might not for you, as everyone has different skin.
If you have any allergies, it is worth checking the contents of the sport sunscreen before applying it to your skin. Again, it is worth checking with your local doctor about your allergies. He might be able to tell you about which lotions to avoid or which specialist sport sunscreen lotions you should buy instead.
The amount of time you spend outside will be a big determining factor in which sport sunscreen you buy. Make sure you check the packaging carefully and apply 30 minutes before you go outside. Choose long-lasting ones if possible, or ones that will at least cover you for the length of a race or half a sports match. If you find a product is not working, then stop using it immediately and find a better one.
