Sunscreen is great for covering areas that clothing can’t always protect like the face, nose, ears, and hands. No one wants sunburn, and sunscreen is an easy way to create a barrier against sun damage.

Maridav

64 | BWA February 2017

Sunscreen works by absorbing or reflecting the more dangerous parts of the spectrum of sunlight. Organic sunscreens are carbon-based and contain avobenzone or oxybenzone, which absorbs UV light, thus preventing it from reaching the skin. Inorganic sunscreens, often zinc, scatters or reflects UV light. Considering how lightweight and easy it is to apply, sunscreen is remarkably effective. However, care must be taken to re-apply frequently, especially after swimming or moderate sweating. Skin sensitivity to the sun varies between individuals, so different sunscreens work better for some people than others. Sunscreen has SPF ratings, measuring how much protection is given from sunburn. The higher the SPF rating, the higher the level of protection.

If all other things, like time spent in the sun and level of protective clothing worn, are equal, sunscreen effectiveness depends on skin type and how well the sunscreen stays on the skin.

Where possible, select a broad-spectrum sunscreen as this protects from UVA and UVB. To cater for more sweating, a sports-specific or water-resistant sunscreen is preferable on bushwalks.

A medical study found that the optimal way to apply sunscreen is 15-30 minutes before sun exposure and then again after 15-20 minutes in the sun. Once this initial reapplication is done, reapply sunscreen every two hours (or as directed on the label) and sooner if sweating a lot since it comes off through perspiration. On a bushwalk, it might be easy to forget the first re-application after 15-20 minutes in the sun, so aim to do it at the first break and then again at lunch and afternoon tea.

When trying new skin products, it is always best to test for allergies. This testing is done by applying a small amount to your wrist and checking for any irritation or swelling. Always remember to check the expiration date of your sunscreen to make sure you’re getting the maximum effectiveness from it.

Sunscreen is undoubtedly a fantastic solution for sun protection, but there are environmental considerations. Zinc oxide is

commonly used in sunscreen: it’s effective at absorbing harmful UV light, and there are reports showing no known side effects to human health. However, there may be adverse environment impacts. Zinc oxide nanoparticles may have toxic effects on marine animals with knock-on effects to whole ecosystem processes. Even at tiny concentrations, nanoparticles may interrupt essential cellular processes and make some marine species more susceptible to further contaminants.

So that means we have to make a choice between protecting our skin or an animal’s skin, right? Not necessarily. Perhaps the solution is a compromise. For example, if the group is planning to take a swim in a creek or natural pool, consider alternatives to sunscreen such as clothing or swimming in shady areas to avoid excessive sun exposure. It’s important to minimise the amount of chemicals leached into the water, but equally important to protect yourself.

Consider wearing a light layer of sunscreen on your face and exposed skin when not on a bushwalk or at the beach. Protecting your skin from sun exposure keeps your skin looking younger, as well as preventing sunspots that can become cancerous. Maybe try to make a light sunscreen application part of your morning routine. Or keep sunscreen in your car for those extra sunny days. Wearing sunscreen may sound like common sense, but using it regularly and limiting direct sun exposure can improve the health of your skin, making time outdoors more enjoyable.

Carly Chabal is a senior geology major at the University of Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania, USA. Her passion for the outdoors has lead her to Sydney where she has a spring internship with the National Parks Association helping out with the campaign and activities programs. After exploring the city during the week, Carly likes to head out into the bush or to a remote beach on the weekend.