sundicators FAQ
How do sundicators work?
Patented photo-chromic dyes are embedded in the products and these change colour when exposed to UVA and UVB radiation from the sun.
Why do I apply sunscreen to a sundicator?
Putting sunscreen on the sundicator mimics the SPF protection the sunscreen is giving your body. There is no more guessing how effective the sunscreen is, or when to reapply sunscreen or when to avoid the sun. Your sundicator will indicate what action needs to be taken with colour changes.
When do I put sunscreen on the sundicator?
Apply sunscreen to the sundicator AFTER activating it through exposure to the sun.
How long will it take before the colour’s change?
It depends on the level of UV radiation and how exposed you are to the sun. sundicators generally turn light purple in 1-2 hours on a sunny day with minimal clouds. If you are in the shade, you will get less radiation and your sundicator will not change colour as quickly. sundicators measure wherever you go. If you go inside where there is no UV radiation, the colour progression stops, however, there is a memory, and when you go back outside, the sundicator continues to measure from where it left off.
When do I reapply sunscreen?
sundicators remind you to reapply when the colour turns light purple. Re-applying sunscreen will not change the colour of your sundicator back to dark purple, however, it will reduce the UV absorption because more protection was just added. The colour change of the sundicator will be slower.
Can I continually reapply sunscreen all day to protect myself? When do I need to get out of the sun?
Follow the directions of your sunscreen – do not wait for your sundicator to change colour. Our UV indicator products correctly measure your maximum sun exposure for the day based on the SPF level of your sunscreen and the UV level. It is important to understand that sunscreen does NOT block all UV radiation, and no matter how much sunscreen you use there is a limit to how much time you should spend in the sun. Once your sundicator turns pale yellow to white it is recommended you avoid the sun or cover up!
Can sundicators be used in water or salt water?
Yes, sundicators work in pool water or salt water. What matters is the sunscreen! sunscreen can wash off your body in the water. If that happens, it will also wash off your sundicator. The sundicator will give you an accurate reading based on the sunscreen you are using and how you are using it.
Can I wear a sundicator for more than one day?
No, sundicators are designed to only measure your dose of sun exposure per day. However, sundicators will work for a full day if you are using your sunscreen properly. It has a memory and will measure UVA & UVB radiation throughout the day both inside and outside. Do not use a partly used sundicator the next day. sundicators do not measure time or temperature, it only measures UVA & UVB emitted by sun. Once the day is over, dispose or recycle (plastic code 5).
What if I do NOT put sunscreen on the sundicator?
This is not recommended since sundicators are calibrated to work with all SPF sunscreens. It is not advised to go outside in intense sun for more than 11 minutes in summer without sunscreen and proper protection. Without sunscreen, the sundicators colour progression will move much more quickly, and could give a false reading.
What kind of sunscreen will work with the sundicators?
sundicators are calibrated to work with all sunscreens - lotions, creams, or sprays. It is recommended you always use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, a broad brimmed hat and sunglasses when out in the sun.