The doctor points out 7 areas that are forgotten when applying sunscreen

With the arrival of summer and another heat wave, many people will be looking for a beach or pool to cool off the high temperatures. Since sun exposure is linked to the development of skin cancer, sunscreen is essential, but some areas end up being neglected when applied.

The ideal amount of sunscreen can be measured with a teaspoon. Ideal is one application on the face, neck and head. The same amount for the front of the torso and another for the back. One for each arm; One for the front of each leg and one for the back of each.

Dermatologist Ana Maria Pellegrini, of the Brazilian Society of Dermatology (SBD), lists the forgotten areas that deserve more attention when applying sunscreen.

Where do not forget to apply sunscreen

• Eyelids: The incidence of skin cancer in the eye area reaches 10%, according to a 2017 survey conducted by the University of Liverpool in the United Kingdom. “The skin around the eyes is very sensitive, and some filters can cause irritation; Therefore, the patient should give priority to products that have been tested by ophthalmologists, protecting the area without the risk of reaction. But the most important information to take away from this research is the importance of sun protection accessories, such as sunglasses, which not only protect the eyes and cornea, but are also important for protecting the skin of the eyelids, which is vulnerable to cancer. , he declares.
• Nose: The study showed that while applying a condom, about 10% of the face is forgotten, including the tip and sides of the nose. There is a tendency to neglect the contour of the nostrils or apply the filter too quickly to the area, explains Anna Maria.
• Lips: Because they are made of very thin skin and do not contain sebaceous glands, the lips are greatly exposed to sunlight. “When melanoma occurs on the lips, in about 90% of cases, it occurs in the lower lip. It is very important to apply a lip protectant of SPF 30 or higher daily and reapply every two hours or after eating or drinking.
• Ears: Especially for people with short hair, it is important to apply sunscreen behind the ears and on the ends.
• Neck: The skin in the area is very thin, and according to some studies, sand and sea water are able to reflect sunlight and bring rays from the bottom to the top.
• Elbow: The elbow, because it is an area with fewer sebaceous glands and is naturally drier, is vulnerable to environmental damage, warns Anna Maria. Since it is an area of ​​bending and friction, it is also more susceptible to developing stains. “Patients don’t usually wrap their entire arm when applying sunscreen,” he says.
• Buttocks: The dermatologist says that the material of swimwear, bikinis and swimsuits is not always enough to protect the skin, which is why it is important to apply sunscreen before putting on a swimsuit. “The correct way to apply sunscreen is 30 minutes before exposure to the sun, without clothing, evenly, distributing it well and avoiding its accumulation in some areas. Knows that it should be applied to the entire body.

Follow the health editorial On Instagram And stay up to date on everything related to the topic!