Wednesday, August 3, 2016

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How to Divorce in California

Posted: 03 Aug 2016 05:00 PM PDT

If you are a California resident who is contemplating ending his or her marriage through divorce or your spouse has served you with divorce papers, it is very important that you educate yourself about the divorce process. You and your spouse may be able to negotiate the terms of your divorce together, use a mediator or both hire attorneys to decide issues of alimony, custody and the division of marital assets.

EditSteps

EditUnderstanding Divorce Methods in California

  1. Represent yourself in the divorce. Many people choose to negotiate the terms of their divorce without hiring an attorney. They may choose to rely on local court resources, self-help books or internet services to help negotiate the divorce. Choosing to represent yourself may be a good option for you if:
    Divorce in California Step 1 Version 2.jpg
    • You feel comfortable filing court documents and negotiating with your spouse.
    • The divorce was a mutual decision and both parties are amicable and willing to work together.
    • There is little to no property to be divided.
    • Your spouse is not hiring an attorney.
    • There are no children.[1]
  2. Hire a mediator. A mediator is a neutral third-party that you and your spouse hire to help you negotiate the terms of your divorce. The goal of mediation is to agree to a legally binding "Judgment of Dissolution," which sets forth the parameters of your divorce. A mediator does not provide legal advice but rather helps you and your spouse understand alternatives and come up with solutions to reach a settlement. A mediator may be a good choice for you if:
    Divorce in California Step 2 Version 2.jpg
    • You and your spouse openly and voluntarily share financial information.
    • Both parties prefer to handle the specifics of their divorce in private rather than in court.
    • You want someone to help facilitate a conversation and plan for parenting and custody.
    • You wish to spend less money on the divorce.
    • Even if you choose to use a mediator, you should consider hiring an attorney to review the settlement before it is finalized.[2]
  3. Engage in a collaborative divorce. A collaborative divorce is when both spouses retain attorneys with the purpose of reaching an out-of-court settlement. Collaborative attorneys do not represent individuals in court but rather facilitate exchange of documents, negotiating custody issues and property distribution in an amicable and cooperative manner.[3] A collaborative divorce may be a good choice for you if:
    Divorce in California Step 3 Version 2.jpg
    • Both parties want the divorce and it is not contentious.
    • Both parties agree to a collaborative process.
    • Both attorneys agree not to become involved in litigation over the divorce.
    • Both parties agree to turn over all relevant documents and information.
    • Both parties agree to act in the best interest of their children, if any, and to not use those children in the divorce proceedings.[4]
  4. Hire an attorney. It may be in your best interest to hire an attorney to handle your divorce. Experienced family law attorneys will know how to negotiate a divorce settlement, understand and complete all of the specific paperwork, serve and file court documents, and make appearances in court, if necessary. Choosing to hire an attorney may be the right decision for you if:
    Divorce in California Step 4 Version 2.jpg
    • You are concerned that your spouse is hiding assets or not turning over complete financial information.
    • The divorce is contentious.
    • There is a fight over child custody.
    • You are uncomfortable filling out and filing court documents.
    • Your spouse has an attorney.[5]
  5. Locate an attorney. You can locate attorneys in a number of ways, including:
    Divorce in California Step 5 Version 2.jpg
    • Referral from friend or family member. If someone you know used an attorney for their divorce, you can ask them whether they would recommend that attorney. A recommendation from a trusted person who has personal experience with an attorney is a good place to start.
    • Local or state legal bar associations. Local and state bar associations often provide referral services to attorneys in your area. Through state bar associations, you can check whether any complaints were filed against your prospective attorney. The American Bar Association has compiled a list of state-by-state resources that can direct you to attorney referral sites, such as contact information for state bar associations. The ABA provides this information at http://apps.americanbar.org/legalservices/findlegalhelp/home.cfm
    • State Bar-certified lawyer referral service in your area. You can find a list of certified lawyer referral services on the California Bar's website at: http://www.calbar.ca.gov/Public/LawyerReferralServicesLRS.aspx. You can also contact the California Bar at 1-866-44-CA-LAW (442-2529) or from out of state at 415-538-2250.
  6. Understand property division in California. California is a community property state, which means that property accumulated during the marriage is considered marital property and the overall value of shared property is divided evenly. If you owned property before the marriage, that property is considered separate property and it is not subject to division.[6]
    Divorce in California Step 6.jpg
    • California courts allow couples to decide how the property will be divided; however, a judge must sign off on the agreement and issue a final order.[7]

EditDrafting and Serving Your Divorce Petition in California

  1. Determine in which county to file for divorce. In order to file for divorce in California, you must meet certain residency requirements. Specifically, you or your spouse must have lived in California for at least 6 months and lived in your current county for 3 months. You can file your divorce in the following places:
    Divorce in California Step 7.jpg
    • If both spouses resided in California for 6 months and the same county for the previous 3 months, you would file your divorce in the county where you reside.
    • If both spouses resided in California for 6 months and in different counties for the previous 3 months, you could file your divorce in either county where a spouse resides.
    • If one spouse resided in California for 6 months and the same county for the previous 3 months, and the other spouse did not reside in California or in the same California county for 3 months, you would file the divorce in the county of the spouse who resided there for 3 months.
    • If neither spouse resided in California for 6 months or in a county for the previous 3 months, you cannot file your divorce in California.[8]
  2. Fill out a Petition to start divorce proceedings. Once you have determine where you can file for divorce, you can begin preparing the required paperwork. The first document you must complete is a "Petition — Marriage/Domestic Partnership," Form Fl-100, which can be found at: http://www.courts.ca.gov/documents/fl100.pdf. To complete the form you must:
    Divorce in California Step 8.jpg
    • Write in blue or black ink or type the information.
    • Provide your name, address, phone number and email address.
    • Provide your name as the Petitioner (person filing for divorce) and your spouse's name as Respondent.
    • Set forth that you are dissolving a marriage, whether you have children, and if so, provide their names, birth dates and ages.
    • Identify property that you had before the marriage.
    • Indicate whether you have marital assets or debt.
    • Indicate whether you have attorney's fees.
    • Date, print and sign your name.[9]
  3. Fill out and read the Summons form. The summons requests that you provide the names of you and your spouse. You can download the Summons, Form FL-110 at http://www.courts.ca.gov/documents/fl110.pdf. This form also provides important information related to the divorce process, including:
    Divorce in California Step 9.jpg
    • The time frame that the responding spouse has to respond.
    • Restraining orders against both parties restraining them from removing minor children from the jurisdiction.
    • Restraining orders against both parties restraining them from changing the beneficiaries of health insurance, life insurance or other insurance programs.
    • Restraining orders against both parties restraining them from hiding or disposing of property.[10]
  4. Complete a Declaration Under Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act Form. If you have children under the age of 18 with your spouse you must fill out and file this form, located at http://www.courts.ca.gov/documents/fl105sgc120s.pdf. This form requests information regarding your children and any custody agreements that are already in place.
    Divorce in California Step 10.jpg
  5. Check to see whether your local court requires specific forms. Some county courts require that you complete additional forms for their county. You can determine whether there are any additional forms by calling the court clerk or searching on the court's website, which can be found here: http://www.courts.ca.gov/find-my-court.htm.
    Divorce in California Step 11.jpg
    • Complete additional forms. If the court where you are filing for divorce requires any additional forms, be sure to download and complete the forms in accordance with the instructions.[11]
  6. Make at least two copies of all of your forms. When you file your forms in the court, the court will keep the original and you will have one copy for yourself and one copy to serve on your spouse.
    Divorce in California Step 12.jpg
  7. File your forms with the court clerk for your county. When filing for divorce, take the originals and copies of your Petition, Summons and Declaration (if applicable) to the court clerk. If the documents appear to be in order, the clerk will stamp and keep the original. The court will also stamp your copies as "filed" and return them to you.
    Divorce in California Step 13.jpg
  8. Gather divorce papers to serve on your spouse. Once you have filed your divorce papers with the court, you are legally required to serve (officially give a copy) to your spouse. You must serve your spouse with the following documents:
    Divorce in California Step 14.jpg
    • A copy of the Petition — Marriage/Domestic Partnership that you filed with the court.
    • A copy of the Summons that you filed with the court.
    • A copy of the Declaration Under Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act Form that you filed with the court (if applicable).
    • A copy of any local county forms.
    • A blank Response — Marriage/Domestic Partnership form, located at http://www.courts.ca.gov/documents/fl120.pdf.
    • If you have children and filed your own Declaration, you must also serve your spouse with a blank Declaration Under Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA) form, located at http://www.courts.ca.gov/documents/fl105sgc120s.pdf.[13]
  9. Serve your spouse with the divorce papers. Once you have gathered all of the applicable documents, you are legally required to provide a copy of the papers to your spouse. This is called "service" and you can serve your spouse in the following ways:
    Divorce in California Step 15.jpg
    • A person over the age of 18, that is not you, can hand deliver a copy of the divorce papers to your spouse. This person can be a friend, relative, professional process server or a county sheriff. This is referred to as personal service.
    • You can also serve your spouse by mail, which means that you send your spouse a copy of the divorce papers by registered mail and with a Notice and Acknowledgement of receipt form. You can find a copy of this form here: http://www.courts.ca.gov/documents/fl117.pdf.[14]
  10. Fill out and file Proof of Service of Summons. If you used personal service, the person who served your spouse must complete a Proof of Service of Summons form located at http://www.courts.ca.gov/documents/fl115.pdf. This form demonstrates that your spouse was given the documents.[15] If you received a Proof of Service of Summons or a Notice and Acknowledgement of Receipt, you must file these documents with the court to demonstrate that you complied with the legal requirements of service.
    Divorce in California Step 16.jpg
  11. Wait for a Response. The spouse who was served divorce papers (Respondent) has 30 days to complete the Response — Marriage/Domestic Partnership form and serve you with the document.[16]
    Divorce in California Step 17.jpg

EditGathering and Disclosing Financial Information

  1. Gather financial information. Once you filed your Petition, you have 60 days to file your financial disclosures. You should immediately begin collecting your financial documents, which may include:
    Divorce in California Step 18.jpg
    • W-2 and 1099s for the previous year.
    • Paystubs for at least two pay periods.
    • Copy of all deeds, car titles and car registrations.
    • List of all retirement accounts, credit cards, bank accounts
    • List of all debt, including loans, mortgages, and/or credit cards.[17]
  2. Complete Financial Disclosure forms. You must complete and file these documents with the court within 60 days of filing your petition. The forms include:
    Divorce in California Step 19.jpg
    • Declaration of Disclosure (Form FL-140). This is a cover sheet for your declaration of disclosure and you must check all of the applicable boxes on the front page and attest to the truth of your statements. The form can be found at: http://www.courts.ca.gov/documents/fl140.pdf
    • Schedule of Assets and Debts (Form FL-142). This document lists all of the assets and debts of you and your spouse. If the asset was acquired before the marriage you can note that on the form as separate property. You can find the form at: http://www.courts.ca.gov/documents/fl142.pdf
    • Income and Expense Declaration (Form FL-150). This documents sets forth all of your earnings and expenses. You will be required to attach W-2s and/or 1099 forms. If you are a business owner, you may need to submit profit and loss statements for the company. Form FL-150 can be found at: http://www.courts.ca.gov/documents/fl150.pdf
    • Declaration Regarding Service of Declaration of Disclosure (Form FL-141). This document requires you to mark that you are serving the document and on whom the document was served. You can locate the form at: http://www.courts.ca.gov/documents/fl141.pdf[18]
  3. File your financial disclosures with the court. Take the original and two copies of your financial disclosures to the court. The court will stamp and keep the original and stamp and return your copies.[19]
    Divorce in California Step 20.jpg
  4. Serve the financial disclosures and file a declaration regarding service. As discussed above, serve your spouse either by personal service or by registered mail. Once your spouse is served, you must also fill out and file a Declaration Regarding Service of Declaration of Disclosure located at http://www.courts.ca.gov/documents/fl141.pdf. This form demonstrates that you properly provided your spouse with the court documents.[20]
    Divorce in California Step 21.jpg

EditFinalizing the Divorce Case

  1. Complete final divorce forms. The forms you must complete depends on what actions your spouse took in response to your Petition. There are four potential scenarios that could have occurred. These scenarios include:
    Divorce in California Step 22.jpg
    • Respondent spouse did not file a Response and you did not enter into a written agreement specifying the dissolution of marriage;
    • Respondent spouse did not file a Response but you did enter into an agreement;
    • Respondent filed a Response and entered into an agreement; or
    • Respondent filed a Response and did not enter into an agreement.[21]
  2. Complete forms when there was no Response or agreement. After waiting 30 days after the response was served on the spouse, the Petitioner spouse should complete, file and serve the below documents:
    Divorce in California Step 23.jpg
  3. Complete forms when there was an agreement but no Response. In order to finalize your divorce under these circumstances you must:
    Divorce in California Step 24.jpg
    • Write up your agreement.
    • Complete and file the following forms discussed above: Complete and File a Request to Enter Default; Declaration for Default or Uncontested Dissolution or Legal Separation; Judgment; and a Notice of Entry of Judgment.
    • Complete a final Declaration of Disclosure, which includes all of the financial disclosure documents you previously filed. These documents include: Declaration of Disclosure; Schedule of Assets and Debts; and Income and Expense Declaration.
  4. Complete forms when there was a Response and an agreement. In this situation, the divorce is considered uncontested. You must complete the following:
    Divorce in California Step 25.jpg
    • Write up your agreement.
    • Complete and file the following forms discussed above: Complete and File a Request to Enter Default; Declaration for Default or Uncontested Dissolution or Legal Separation; Judgment; and a Notice of Entry of Judgment.
    • Complete a final Declaration of Disclosure, which includes all of the financial disclosure documents you previously filed. These documents include :Declaration of Disclosure; Schedule of Assets and Debts; and Income and Expense Declaration.[22]
  5. Take the next steps when there was a Response but no agreement. In this situation, your divorce is considered "contested" because the parties cannot agree to a settlement. In order to finalize your divorce you should consider the following:
    Divorce in California Step 26.jpg
    • Hire a mediator to help facilitate settlement discussions.
    • Hire an attorney to litigate your case in court. If you cannot agree on all of your issues, you will have to appear in court for a final determination of your divorce. In this situation, it is best for you retain an attorney who can handle your divorce case.[23]

EditVideo

EditTips

  • California courts often provide family law facilitators and self-help centers to assist you in proceeding with your divorce. [24]

EditWarnings

  • If you change your mind about the divorce, you can request a case dismissal. However, if you later decide to go through with the divorce you will have to re-file the case, start the entire process over and pay the filing fee again.

EditRelated wikiHows

EditSources and Citations


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How to Gain Your Parakeet's Trust

Posted: 03 Aug 2016 09:00 AM PDT

Parakeets, also known as budgerigars or simply "budgies," are a type of parrot native to Australia. Budgies are common pets around the world, and can be taught to do things like play with toys, sit on shoulders, and even mimic human speech. First, however, you need to build your budgie's trust in you. Bonding with your budgie will take time and patience, but can also be lots of fun.

EditSteps

EditGetting Your Budgie Used to its Surroundings

  1. Consider whether you want to clip your budgie's wings. This can be a difficult decision to make once you get your bird. If you have questions about clipping the bird's wings, talk to your veterinarian.[1]
    Gain Your Parakeet's Trust Step 1 Version 2.jpg
    • Trimming your bird's wings does not cause it any pain, when done properly by a professional. With its wings trimmed, your budgie will not be able to fly for a few months, until its feathers grow back. That way, you can leave its cage door open, and the budgie can explore more with less chance of it escaping. This can make it easier to train.
    • On the other hand, not everyone likes the idea of altering a bird. There are also concerns that the inability to fly can be distressing to a bird.[2]
  2. Keep your budgie comfortable. Make sure that your budgie has an appropriate cage and easy access to food and water. All the necessary supplies can be found at pet supply stores. Keep the cage in a room that is moderate in temperature. If the temperature feels good to you, then your bird should be comfortable as well.[3]
    Gain Your Parakeet's Trust Step 2 Version 2.jpg
  3. Don't try to tame your bird right away. When you first get a budgie, give it a few weeks to get used to its surroundings. Then you can start to tame and train it.[4]
    Gain Your Parakeet's Trust Step 3 Version 2.jpg
    • If possible, keep your budgie's cage in a room where you spend a lot of time. This will help it get used to the sight of you.[5][6]
    • Play music around your bird. This will get your budgie used to the volume level of your home, and it may enjoy hearing the music.
    • Talk softly to your budgie when you give it water and food, so that it will create positive associations with you. You can also make a point to leave treats on or just inside its cage.[7]

EditBeginning to Build Your Budgie's Trust

  1. Start by opening the cage door. Open the door of your budgie's cage and carefully insert your hand. Talk softly to the budgie. Try to coax it into eating a treat, like a sunflower seed or millet, from the palm of your hand.[8] This may take several tries, so be patient.
    Gain Your Parakeet's Trust Step 4 Version 2.jpg
    • Do not try to grab your budgie at this early stage. Let it come to your hand instead. If your budgie moves around in the cage when you insert your hand, leave it there until the bird calms down.[9]
    • Each training session should last about 10 minutes.[10][11]
  2. Train your budgie to hop onto a stick. After your budgie trusts you enough to eat treats from your hand, you can try getting it to hop onto a perch or stick. Open its cage door and carefully insert the perch. Very gently press the perch against your bird. With some time, it will learn to move onto the perch.[12]
    Gain Your Parakeet's Trust Step 5 Version 2.jpg
    • For now, just let your budgie stay on the perch in its cage. Don't try to move it out of the cage yet. Your budgie needs more time to develop trust in you.
  3. Train your budgie to hop onto your finger. Once your budgie is used to hopping onto a perch or stick, you can place your finger next to the bird to see if it will hop onto it. When your budgie is on the perch or stick, you can also try placing your finger next to the perch to if the bird will hop onto it.[13]
    Gain Your Parakeet's Trust Step 6.jpg
    • If your budgie is not startled by the presence of your hand, you can try rubbing your finger on its belly while saying "up." When you set it back on its perch or the cage, say "down."[14]
  4. Move your budgie while it is perched on your finger. If your budgie has gotten used to hopping on your finger, and can perch on it securely, then you can try to move it on your finger out of its cage.
    Gain Your Parakeet's Trust Step 7.jpg
    • Move your budgie very slowly and carefully as you are taking it out of its cage, especially for the first time. You do not want to startle the bird.[15]
    • Do not try to move your budgie around very much when you are trying to get it used to coming out of the cage. Keep the training sessions short.[16]

EditTraining and Bonding with Your Budgie

  1. Let your budgie spend time outside of its cage. Once tamed and trained, your budgie will need at least an hour per day outside of its cage for exercise and play. Make sure all windows and doors are closed for safety. It is also a good idea to cover windows and mirrors so your budgie does not accidentally fly into them.[17]
    Gain Your Parakeet's Trust Step 8.jpg
  2. Let your budgie sit on your shoulder. Once your budgie is comfortable being moved around outside of your cage, you can try to set it gently on your shoulder. Many budgies can be trained to perch there.[18]
    Gain Your Parakeet's Trust Step 9.jpg
  3. Keep your budgie healthy and happy with toys. Budgies will enjoy having a number of toys to choose from. You can use these toys as an opportunity to bond with your budgie. Try rotating toys regularly (at least every month) to keep it happy.[19] Good budgie-appropriate toys should be available at pet supply stores and include:[20]
    Gain Your Parakeet's Trust Step 10.jpg
    • Ladders
    • Swings
    • Mirrors
    • Bells
    • Wooden chew toys (these are good for keeping your budgie's beak trimmed)
    • Non-poisonous house plants. Your budgie can fly from its cage to the plant and back.[21]
  4. Continue to talk to your bird. You want your budgie to be used to the sound of your voice, so continue to talk to it as it bonds with you.
    Gain Your Parakeet's Trust Step 11.jpg

EditTips

  • Always hold your budgie correctly. Place your palm on its back and wrap your fingers around the bird. Gently place your thumb on one side of its head, and your forefinger on the other. [23] This position will keep your bird securely held and make it feel safe.
  • Budgies can use their beaks to bite, but this is rarely painful or dangerous. If your budgie does bite you, don't startle it by overly reacting.
  • Some people suggest trying to tame your budgie by holding it for periods of time (such as 30 minutes at a time, five times a day). However, not all budgies respond well to this method, and it may be hard to build trust. If you choose this method, remember to hold your budgie gently and carefully, as always. If you grasp the bird too tightly, it can suffocate.[24]

EditThings You'll Need

  • Some treats such as millet or sunflower seeds
  • A birdcage with food and water
  • Toys for your budgie

EditRelated wikiHows

EditSources and Citations


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How to Apply Sunscreen

Posted: 03 Aug 2016 01:00 AM PDT

You probably know that you need to apply sunscreen while you're laying out on the beach. However, dermatologists recommend that you use a sunscreen any time you're going to be outside for more than 20 minutes, even in the wintertime.[1] You should wear sunscreen even when it's shady or overcast. The sun's UV (ultraviolet) rays can begin to cause skin damage in just 15 minutes![2] This damage can even lead to skin cancer.

EditSteps

EditChoosing a Sunscreen

  1. Look at the SPF number. "SPF" refers to a sunscreen's "sun protective factor," or how effectively it blocks UVB rays. The SPF number reflects the amount of time it takes to sunburn wearing the sunscreen vs. not wearing the sunscreen.[3]
    Apply Sunscreen Step 1.jpg
    • For example, an SPF of 30 means that you can spend 30 times as long in the sun before burning compared to not wearing any sunscreen at all.[4] So, if you would usually begin to burn after 5 minutes in the sun, an SPF of 30 would theoretically allow you to spend time outside for 150 minutes (30 x 5) before you burn. However, your unique skin, your activities, and the sun's intensity all cause variation in how effective sunscreen is, so you may need to use more than other people.
    • The SPF number can be tricky, because its protection doesn't increase proportionally. Thus, SPF 60 is not twice as good as SPF 30. SPF 15 blocks about 94% of UVB rays, SPF 30 blocks about 97%, and SPF 45 blocks about 98%. No sunscreen blocks 100% of UVB rays.[5]
    • The American Academy of Dermatology recommends an SPF of 30 or higher.[6] The difference between extremely high SPFs is often negligible and not worth the extra money.
  2. Choose a "broad-spectrum" sunscreen. SPF refers only to the ability to block UVB rays, which cause sunburn. However, the sun also emits UVA rays. UVA rays cause skin damage, such as signs of aging, wrinkles and dark or light spots.[7] Both increase your risk of skin cancer.[8] A broad-spectrum sunscreen provides protection from both UVA and UVB rays.[9]
    Apply Sunscreen Step 2.jpg
    • Some sunscreens may not say "broad-spectrum" on the packaging. However, they should always state whether they protect against UVB and UVA rays.
    • Most broad-spectrum sunscreens contain "inorganic" components such as titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, as well as "organic" sunscreen components such as avobenzone, Cinoxate, oxybenzone, or octyl methoxycinnamate.[10]
  3. Look for a water-resistant sunscreen. Because your body expels water through sweat, you should look for a water-resistant sunscreen. This is especially important if you are going to be very active, such as running or hiking, or if you'll be in the water.[11]
    Apply Sunscreen Step 3.jpg
    • No sunscreen is "waterproof" or "sweat proof." In the US, sunscreens cannot market themselves as "waterproof."[12]
    • Even with water-resistant sunscreen, reapply every 40-80 minutes or as directed on the label.
  4. Decide what you like. Some people prefer spray sunscreens, while others prefer thick creams or gels. Whatever you decide, make sure you apply a thick, even coating. The application is as important as the SPF and other factors: if you don't apply it properly, the sunscreen won't do its job.[13]
    Apply Sunscreen Step 4.jpg
    • Sprays may be best for hairy areas, while creams are usually best for dry skin.[14] Alcohol or gel sunscreens are good for oily skin.[15]
    • You can also purchase wax sunscreen sticks, which are good for applying near the eyes.
    • Water resistant sunscreens are usually sticky, so they are not good choices for applying under makeup.[16] Use a sunscreen specific for your face. These often have higher SPF (15 or higher), and are less likely to clog pores or increase acne breakouts.
  5. Go home and try a small portion around your wrist. If you see any allergic reaction or skin problem, buy a different sunscreen. Repeat the process until you find the right sunscreen, or talk to your doctor about recommended brands if you have sensitive skin or allergies.
    Apply Sunscreen Step 5.jpg
    • Itching, redness, burning, or blisters are all signs of an allergic reaction. Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are less likely to cause allergic skin reactions.[17]

EditApplying a Sunscreen

  1. Check the expiration date. The FDA requires sunscreen to retain its protective power for at least three years from the date of manufacture. However, you should always note expiration dates. If the date has passed, ditch the old bottle and buy some new sunscreen.[18]
    Apply Sunscreen Step 6.jpg
    • If your product doesn't have an expiration date when you purchase it, use a permanent marker or a label to write the purchase date on the bottle. This way you'll know how long you've had the product.
    • Obvious changes in the product, such as color changes, separation, or different consistency, are signs that the sunscreen has expired.
  2. Apply before going out in the sun. The chemicals in sunscreen take time to bind to your skin and become fully protective. Apply your sunscreen before you go out.[19]
    Apply Sunscreen Step 7.jpg
    • Sunscreen on the skin should be applied 30 minutes before you go out into the sun. Lip sunscreen should be applied 45-60 minutes before going into the sun.[20]
  3. Use enough. One of the biggest mistakes in using sunscreen is to not use enough. Adults usually need about one ounce -- a palmful, or about a shot glass full -- of sunscreen to cover exposed skin.[21][22]
    Apply Sunscreen Step 8.jpg
    • To apply cream or gel sunscreen, squeeze a dollop into your palm. Spread it all over the skin that will be exposed to the sun. Rub the sunscreen into your skin until you can't see the white anymore.
    • To apply spray sunscreen, hold the bottle upright and move the bottle back and forth across your skin. Apply an even, generous coating. Make sure the wind doesn't blow the sunscreen away before it contacts your skin. Don't inhale spray sunscreen. Be careful when applying spray sunscreens around the face, especially around children.
  4. Apply sunscreen to all skin. Remember areas like your ears, neck, the tops of your feet and hands, and even the part in your hair. Any skin that will be exposed to sunlight should be covered with sunscreen.[23]
    Apply Sunscreen Step 9.jpg
    • It can be hard to fully cover hard-to-reach areas such as your back. Ask someone to help you apply sunscreen to these areas.[24]
    • Thin clothing often doesn't offer much sun protection. For example, a white t-shirt has an SPF of just 7. Wear clothing designed to block UV rays, or wear sunblock under your clothes.[25]
  5. Don't forget your face. Your face needs even more sunscreen than the rest of your body, as many skin cancers occur on the face, especially on or around the nose. Some cosmetics or lotions may contain sunscreen. However, if you're going to be outside for more than 20 minutes (total, not at a time) you'll want to apply a facial sunscreen too.
    Apply Sunscreen Step 10.jpg
    • Many facial sunscreens come in cream or lotion form. If you use a spray sunscreen, spray it into your hands first, then apply it to your face. It's best to avoid spray sunscreens on the face if possible.
    • The Skin Cancer Foundation has a searchable list of recommended facial sunscreens.[26]
    • Use a lip balm or lip sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 on your lips.
    • If you are bald or have thin hair, remember to apply sunscreen to your head, too. You can also wear a hat to help protect against sun damage.[27]
  6. Reapply after 15-30 minutes. Studies have shown that re-applying your sunscreen after about 15-30 minutes after going into the sun is more protective than waiting 2 hours.[28]
    Apply Sunscreen Step 11.jpg
    • Once you've done this initial reapplication, re-apply sunscreen every 2 hours or as directed on the label.

EditStaying Safe in the Sun

  1. Stay in the shade. Even when you're wearing sunscreen, you'll still be exposed to the sun's powerful rays. Staying in the shade or using a sun umbrella will help protect you from sun damage.[29]
    Apply Sunscreen Step 12.jpg
    • Avoid "peak hours." The sun is highest between 10AM and 2 PM. If you can, avoid sun exposure during this time. Seek shade if you're out and about during this time.[30]
  2. Wear protective clothing. Not all clothing is created equal. However, long-sleeved shirts and long pants can help protect your skin from sun damage. Wear a hat to offer your face extra shade and protect your scalp.[31]
    Apply Sunscreen Step 13.jpg
    • Look for tightly-woven fabric and dark colors, which offer the most protection. For people who are very active outdoors, there is special clothing with built-in sun-protection, available at specialty stores or online.
    • Remember those sunglasses! The sun's UV rays can cause cataracts, so purchase a pair that block UVB and UVA rays.
  3. Keep young children out of the sun. Sun exposure, especially during the "peak" hours of 10 AM to 2 PM, is especially harmful to young children. Look for sunscreens specifically made for children and babies. Consult with your pediatrician to determine what is safe for your child.[32]
    Apply Sunscreen Step 14.jpg
    • Infants under the age of 6 months should not wear sunscreen or be exposed to direct sunlight. Young babies' skin is not mature yet, so they may absorb more of the chemicals in sunscreen. If you must take young infants outside, keep them in the shade.[33]
    • If your baby is older than 6 months, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Be careful when applying sunscreen near the eyes.[34]
    • Dress young children in sun-protective clothing, such as hats, long-sleeved sun shirts or lightweight long pants.[35]
    • Get your child sunglasses with UV protection.[36]

EditTips

  • Buy a special sunscreen for your face. If you have oily skin or tend to get clogged pores, look for "oil-free" or "noncomedogenic" sunscreens. Special formulas are available for sensitive skin.
  • Even if you apply sunscreen, do not overexpose yourself in the sun.
  • Reapply sunscreen after getting wet, every 2 hours, or as directed on the label. Sunscreen isn't a "one and done" product.

EditWarnings

  • There is no such thing as a "safe" tan. UV light from tanning beds and natural sunlight causes skin cancer. A golden tan may look great, but it isn't worth your life.

EditRelated wikiHows

EditSources and Citations


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