Summer time is fast approaching and whether or not to use sunscreen is no longer the message. For most, we know we need sunscreen to help prevent skin damage, premature aging, and skin cancer. But, choosing and using sunscreen appropriately is still a concern.
With the myriad of choices in sunscreen products, how can we know what the best choices are for healthy skin protection? Here are some guidelines that may help. First, consider the SPF (sun protection factor) the ingredient that protects you from UVB radiation (those rays that cause sunburning). Choose an SPF 15 or higher. An SPF 15 means it will take 15 times longer for your skin to burn than it would if you were not protected with the sunscreen. Note, however, that this SPF means that if your skin would normally turn red after 10 minutes, it will now take 150 minutes, or 2 hours, to burn.
We also need to protect ourselves from UVA radiation the sun rays that penetrate more deeply and can weaken the skin’s inner connective tissues and contribute to skin cancer and immune system damage. To be protected from UVA radiation requires choosing a sunscreen product labeled broad-spectrum, which indicates that it protects the skin against UVA and UVB rays. Sunscreens even those with the same SPF rating can have different ingredients or different combinations of ingredients. To be sure the sunscreen protects against UVA radiation, check for any of the following common ingredients:
- benzophenones
- oxybenzone
- sulisobenzone
- titanium dioxide
- zinc oxide
- avobenzone (also known as Parsol 1789)
As far as the form of sunscreen, there are many creams, lotions, ointments, sprays, gels, wax sticks, etc. Most of these forms are all fine and can be chosen on personal preference. Here are a few things that may help with your selection:
- Lotions tend to be less irritating to children, but there are spray-on and squeeze-bottle options that are both fine.
- Alcohol-based sunscreen products should be avoided on children because they can cause irritation.
- Choose products that are PABA-free and contain the ingredient titanium dioxide and/or zinc oxide for children and individuals with sensitive skin. Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide physically deflect rather than chemically absorb ultraviolet radiation and, therefore, do not cause allergic reactions.
- Creams may work better on the face since gels can sting around the eyes.
- Lighter-textured choices may work better for those prone to acne. Just remember to apply a thick enough layer to be sure to protect yourself.
- Lip balms with sunscreen rated SPF 15 or higher are an important and necessary form of protection for the lips.
- Consider a water-resistant sunscreen if your activities involve water or heavy perspiration.
- These Sunscreens stay on the skin longer even if they get wet.
- Avoid Sunscreens that are combined with insect repellant. Insect repellant typically contains the chemical DEET, which is good for protection for about 8 hours and should be washed off at the end of the day. It should not be reapplied as often as sunscreen.
One of the ways we often misuse sunscreen is by not reapplying it often enough. Sunscreen should be reapplied at least every 2 hours or sooner if you towel off. We also need to use enough sunscreen. Apply sunscreen generously to all areas of exposed skin being careful not to forget the face, neck, ears, and feet.
The only exception is children under age 6 months. Infants’ skin can be irritated by sunscreen. To protect your baby’s skin from the sun, keep him/her in the shade, out of direct sunlight. Place your child in light-weight, long-sleeve shirts and pants to cover their skin while avoiding overheating. Use a wide-brimmed hat and 100 percent UV protective infant sunglasses to protect the head and developing eyes. For more information, contact the county Extension office at 325-646-0386.
