The sunscreen ingredients in most sun tanning products absorb ultraviolet (UV) radiation by forming a barrier on the skin's surface. Energy from sunlight is converted to heat dissipating harmlessly.

Sunscreen and infants

Coppertone® Water BABIES® products are recommended for infants six months or older, unless your physician says otherwise.

Although your own sunscreen is effective on an older child's skin, it is usually best to choose a sun care product specially formulated for younger children. Hypoallergenic formulas are designed to protect young skin from the sun.

NOTE: Keep infants under six months out of direct sunlight, and be sure their heads are covered whenever in the sun, especially at mid-day.

Orange and sunless tanning products

"Sunless" tanning products contain an ingredient, DHA (Dihyrdoxyacetone), which reacts with the outer layer of the skin to produce a tan color. You control the "tanning" process by frequency of use: with repeated applications, you achieve a darker tan.

First-time users should test a small area of skin and wait a few hours to judge color before applying it on the rest of the body.

NOTE: Use a sunscreen when you go out in the sun since sunless tanners don't provide sun protection.

Insect repellent

The Environmental Protection Agency approved the continued use of currently available DEET insect repellent products in 1998.

To learn more about DEET, contact the Chemical Specialties Manufacturers Association at (202) 872-8110.

Differences in sunscreen products

The difference is basically in formulation. Products are available in water-resistant, waterproof, sweatproof, oil-free and other formulas.

Individual taste is also a consideration. Among them are form (lotion, spray or gel), texture, fragrance, color and ease of application.