All Your Sunscreen Questions, Answered

Science has not found any serious threats to your health from using sunscreen.

The chemicals in sunscreen, oxybenzone and octinoxate, are dangerous to coral reefs, which is why Hawaii has banned them.

There aren't any effective alternatives to sunscreen besides avoiding the sun.

Use as much as you can. Be aware that you are probably getting less protection than you think.

• You can't stay out 15 times longer with SPF 15.
• High SPF sunscreen helps to make up for what you are missing.
• Protect your skin with sleeves, hats, and shade.

Sprays work, but be aware:

• You have to make sure you apply enough. Spray until there's a visible sheen, and then you're supposed to rub it in.
• You probably don’t want to breathe it in or get it in your eyes.
• Do not ever spray them near a fire.

SPF is good to have in moisturizers and cosmetics, but SPF needs to be reapplied throughout the day. It makes separate products a better fit.