10 steps to keep your skin health in check

• Rely on daily sun protection – year‑round

Use a sunscreen with at least SPF 30, ideally 50, because UV rays are active even on cloudy days and in winter. Apply protection generously and choose mineral‑filter products for sensitive skin. This prevents invisible cellular damage that can lead to skin cancer over time.

• Apply enough sunscreen

Protection only works with the recommended amount: about 4 tablespoons for the body and 1 teaspoon for the face. Products with dosing aids or measurement markings make correct application easier. Many drugstores offer sun lotion, spray or gel in large family sizes.

• Reapply sunscreen consistently

Sunscreen loses effectiveness through sweat, water and friction. Reapply at least every two hours — more often during water activities. Water‑resistant products provide extra protection for sports and beach holidays.

• Prefer protective textiles as a reliable complement

UV‑protective clothing, wide‑brimmed hats and tightly woven fabrics significantly reduce UV exposure. Many pharmacies and drugstores carry specialised children’s clothing for those at higher risk. These products do not replace sunscreen but strengthen your overall protection strategy.

• Avoid the strong midday sun

Between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. the UV radiation is strongest. Use shaded areas and be especially diligent with sunscreen during this time. For stays near water, on snow or in the mountains, opt for products with a high sun protection factor, as reflections increase UV intensity.

• Check your skin yourself every month

Examine moles, pigmented spots and new skin changes using the ABCDE rule (Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, Evolution). A hand mirror helps with hard‑to‑reach areas like the back and scalp. Many pharmacies offer info leaflets and apps for documentation.

• Schedule regular skin checks with a dermatologist

Use skin cancer screening regardless of your personal risk factors. If you have many new moles, fair skin or a family history, you should consider shorter intervals between checks.

• Choose children’s sunscreen with particular care

Children’s skin has little innate UV protection. Use SPF 50+, extra water‑resistant formulas and fragrance‑free products. UV shirts and sun hats are ideal complements. Every sunburn in childhood increases the risk of later skin cancer – avoid them consistently.

• Check the shelf life of your sunscreens

Expired products no longer protect reliably. Check the PAO symbol (e.g. “12M”) and the expiry date. Store sunscreen in a cool place and not in direct sunlight – many pharmacies offer handy cool bags or SPF sticks for on the go.

• Skip tanning beds – without exception

Artificial UV radiation is classified by dermatologists worldwide as clearly carcinogenic. Every visit increases the risk. Instead, use safe self‑tanners that create a natural skin tone without endangering your skin.