A new study conducted by UK charity Restoration of Appearance and Function Trust (RAFT) reveals that most people do not use sunscreens the right way; thus, they are actually putting themselves at greater risk of developing skin cancer when using skin protection creams. The researchers found out that it’s better to just apply the cream gently and let it dry instead of rubbing the sunscreen, which is what most people do. By rubbing the sunscreen onto our skin, we make it futile, researchers say, as the cream builds up in lines and sweat glands. Consequently, we get no protection at all.

People who love to bask under the sun and rub sunscreen onto their skin for protection are in reality more prone to developing skin cancer as their unprotected skin are exposed to harmful UVA rays. The use of sunscreen encourages them even more to stay longer under the sun unprotected, which makes them at greater risk. The researchers urged sunbathers, especially those with fair complexion who easily get sunburns, have moles and freckles and have family history of skin cancer to be extra cautious. It would be better to avoid the sun’s most intense rays, that is, from 11am till 3 in the afternoon.

By Khristine