sunscreen Fail??

Most sunscreen ingredients are not effective and actually contribute to cancer. Use a sunscreen with a physical barrier such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.

the spf really doesn't work any better after 30. A lot of those that say higher are usually filled with chemicals.

I found this article: http://ph.she.yahoo.com/spf-100-no-better-than-spf-30--says-dermatologists.html

I go with a natural sunblock that is 30 and I never get burned when I use and apply regularly after being outside awhile. And I have a really fair complexion.

There are a couple different possibilities.

First off, there's little difference between the spf levels when you get over spf 45 (although I heard from another source that it was anything higher than spf 30 that didn't matter)

Secondly: did you get a waterproof sunscreen? Sunscreen can wash off pretty easily, especially if its not water proof.

Thirdly: did you put a lot on? Many people put on a small, thin layer because they don't like the greasy feel of sunscreen, but they end up not putting enough on to effectively block out the sun's rays.

Did you reapply at least every two hours? Sunscreen washes of due to water (from swimming) and sweat. You need to reapply it in order for it to be effective

Sunscreen remains stable for about three years, meaning that a new bottle won't expire for three years. It may have an expiration date on it, but if you bought it this year, I highly doubt it has expired.

Lastly, sometimes even if you follow all the proper steps, you can still get burnt. If you're pale, and this was one of your first times being exposed to the summer sun for a long period of time, even the best sunscreen may not be able to fully protect you.

I'd suggest putting some lotion on the burns to keep them moisturized, and also some aloe vera to help with any discomfort. i like mine with lidocaine (a topical anesthetic to help numb the burn) in it, but other people say it stings their burns, so chose whichever you prefer.

You also need to make sure to apply the sunblock before you go in the sun. Most say to apply 15-30 minutes before exposure. 30 minutes is long enough to burn if the UV index is high.

I agree with the SPF's over 30...nothing over that really makes much of a difference.

2nd--was it the spray on sunscreen or lotion? I know that the spray on stuff does nothing for me...I have to wear the lotion. I put it on and let it set for about 20 minutes before I get in the pool and then I get out after a while, dry off, and re-apply, then let it set before I get back in. I stay out for two or three hours sometimes and use that pattern...and I may get a little bit pink, but I don't normally burn.

hope that helps ! and put some aloe on!