Fort George G. Meade Public Affairs Office / CC

Sun protection may not be on everybody’s mind as they head to the pool, lake or head out to enjoy the sun this summer however it’s on the mind of the Canadian Dermatology Association. Doctor Jennifer Beecker who is a certified dermatologist says applying sunscreen on a daily basis can come with some positive health benefits such as reducing the risk of being diagnosed with cancer and aging.
According to Beecker, data shows applying sunscreen daily can reduce a person’s chances of being diagnosed with squamous cell skin cancer by 40 per cent over 4 years.
Doctor Beecker also says sun protection is more than just using sunscreen as wearing hats and long sleeves can help reduce sunlight significantly.
Beecker says a lot of people who use 30 spf sunscreen tend to apply only a quarter to half of what they should be using which results in an spf that’s not even near 30.
Beecker adds applying the correct amount of sunscreen is ideal rather than using a sunscreen that has a higher spf level. The recommended amount is a teaspoon to two teaspoons on the face and neck and 2 to 3 tablespoons on the rest of the exposed parts of the body.