Test Your Sunscreen Savvy

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. Before you grab some sunscreen and head outside, take our true-or-false quiz based on information from the Centers for Disease Control.

True or False:

1. UVs rays are strongest during mid-to-late summer in North America.
2. All sunscreen products are pretty much the same.
3. You’re safe using last season’s leftover sunscreen. You don't have to head out and buy a new tube.
4. It takes about 30 minutes for the sun’s rays to damage skin.
5. Don’t waste sunscreen by reapplying it throughout the day.

Answers:

1. FALSE: UV rays are strongest in late spring and early summer
2. FALSE: Products have different ingredients. If your skin reacts badly to one, try another or call your doctor.
3. FALSE: Sunscreen with an expiration date has a maximum shelf life of three years. Shelf life diminishes if unused sunscreen has been exposed to high temperatures.
4. FALSE: Skin damage can occur in just 15 minutes.
5. FALSE: Sunscreen wears off. Reapply every two hours or after swimming or exercising to stay protected.

How does sunscreen work? Most products absorb, reflect or scatter sunlight. They also contain chemicals to protect skin from UV rays.

Visit www.cdc.gov/cancer/skin/ for more information on skin cancer prevention. You can even tell someone how to protect their skin by sending a free skin cancer electronic greeting card from the site.