Your Guide to Sunscreen
Sunscreen should be an important part of your daily routine. But should you get an SPF15? 30? 50? 100? Spray? Lotion??? The following is a list of the most common questions and concerns when buying and using sunscreens.
What is sunscreen and why is it important?
Sunscreens are a broad range of chemical or physical ingredients that help prevent Ultraviolet Radiation from damaging the DNA in our skin. When our skin cells have been damaged by UV radiation, they may begin to undergo negative changes, leading to skin issues such as pre-cancerous Actinic Keratosis, or cancers such as Basal or Squamous Cell Carcinoma. In serious cases, UV damage can cause an aggressive type of skin cancer called Malignant Melanoma. Cosmetically, UV radiation can cause wrinkles, age spots, rough texture, broken capillaries, enlarged pores, loss of elasticity, and overall premature aging. Sunscreen is considered the number one ingredient to prevent these unwanted effects from happening.
What does “SPF30” really mean?
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. The number is related to how much UVB radiation is being blocked by the sunscreen (We will get into UVA vs UVB rays and the importance of using a broad-spectrum sunscreen a little later). There is a fairly simple formula to determine the level of protection that you may need, but an SPF of at least 30 is recommended by Dermatologists for daily use.
Please note that this is an estimated amount of time and is meant as a guide only. Certain medications, procedures, and skin conditions can increase sensitivity to the sun and may require a higher SPF.
If it takes you 20 minutes to burn and you use an SPF30, 20 minutes X SPF30= 600 minutes, or approximately 10 hours before you burn(With reapplication every 2 hours). If you burn in 10 minutes, then you have approximately 300 minutes, or 5 hours of protection using an SPF30
Why do I need to use a Broad Spectrum sunscreen?
There are many types of UV rays. The 2 that we focus on are UV Alpha and UV Beta, and they effect the skin in different ways. UVB rays are the main wavelength that causes the skin to burn (think UV Burning) and is responsible for most skin cancers. When factoring the SPF for a product, the number only represents UVB protection. This is why we focus on broad spectrum sunscreens that cover both kinds of rays. UVA rays are less likely to cause burns, but penetrate deeper into the skin than UVB rays and are responsible for many of the negative side effects associated with long term sun and tanning bed exposure (think UV Aging).
Why am I told that I need to wear a daily sunscreen when I am not out in the sun every day?
This is probably the question that gets asked most often in our practice. If you just go back and forth to your car and office, or it’s cloudy, or cold, why wear sunscreen? You are still vulnerable to UVA rays, even through windows and clouds. We often have patients come in and their driver’s side arm has more sun damage then the other arm. The same thing can be seen on patients who repetitively sit by the same window every day. They may have one side of their face with significantly more sun damage than the other due to UVA exposure through the window. Some medications like antibiotics or retinoids can make you more sun sensitive as well.
Chemical sunscreens vs physical sunscreens:
“Sunscreen irritates my skin or burns my eyes.” This is one of the bigger complaints that we hear with sunscreen. Especially those who sweat a lot or have sensitive skin. You may require a physical sunscreen versus a chemical sunscreen. Chemical sunscreens, which are found in most over-the-counter products, work by absorbing UV rays and converting them into heat. The benefits of chemical sunscreens, such as Avobenzone, are that they usually go on the skin clear, and are inexpensive. They work well for most people, which is why they are the most common on the market. However, they can also have an unpleasant smell to some people. Another disadvantage is that they cannot be used on anyone under 6 months of age. Physical sunscreens, on the other hand, work by physically blocking UV rays from reaching the skin. They are considered to be much gentler on the skin than their chemical counterparts. They do not run into the eyes and burn like chemical sunscreens either. The two main physical sunscreens that have the largest broad spectrum capabilities are Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide. Dermatologist, Dr. Kristen Stewart, recommends a Zinc Oxide-based sunscreen for the majority of her patients, as it provides excellent protection with very little chance of irritation. The downside of using physical sunscreens are price and visibility on the skin. A physical sunscreen may run you a little more money than a chemical sunscreen. Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide also have a tendency to be more noticeable on darker skin tones. There are, however, several companies who are coming out with physical sunscreens that blend perfectly into any skin color.
When and how often should I apply sunscreen?
Many people make the mistake of waiting until they get to the beach or pool to apply their sunscreen. It can take up to 20 minutes for a sunscreen to properly absorb into the skin, and waiting to apply until you are exposed to the sun can significantly raise your chances of sun damage. Apply at least 20 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every 2 hours. Apply more frequently if you are in the water or sweat a lot. Even if you used an SPF100, you are not protected with just a single application. It is recommend applying a layer of sunscreen at home, before putting on clothing or bathing suites, and then reapply when you get to your destination. Many people will burn by the borders of clothing, where sunscreen may have been missed if applied after dressing. 1 ounce of lotion (size of a golf ball) is usually enough to cover the average adult.
Spray, Lotion, or Powder?
Sunscreens have come a long way over the past few decades, with several choices available. Lotions can be easier to apply around the face and for daily use. If using a lotion, make sure that you can reach your full back if it is exposed, or have someone help with application. Sprays can be very convenient, especially at places like the beach where it can be unpleasant to reapply sunscreen on sandy skin. They can also be great for reaching areas that can be difficult to apply lotion, like the middle of the back. One of the main problems with the sprays is not applying enough or missing spots. Spray until the skin slightly glistens, taking care to cover the entire body. Apply spray to hands first before applying to the face to avoid getting it in your eyes and airways. Powdered sunscreens are now a viable option as well. These are almost always a physical sunscreen and can range anywhere from an SPF15 to an SPF50. Most of them will have a slight tint to them and are often used in powdered makeup foundations. Unless fragrance is added, they are usually odorless with very little feel to them. Some of them even have a water resistance of up to 80 minutes. They are easy to apply, but again, make sure that you are covering all areas evenly.
Overview
Sunscreens can give you extra protection from the sun, but they don’t guarantee that you will get absolutely no sun damage. Always make sure to seek shade when you can, wear hats that cover the face, and wear light clothing for additional protection. When choosing a sunscreen, make sure that you choose a Broad Spectrum SPF30 or higher. If you are sensitive to sunscreens, try a physical sunscreen containing Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide. Apply before exposure, and then every two hours, and/or after water exposure and towel drying. Wearing protective clothing and staying in the shade will also help to keep the sun at bay as well. Sunscreens should be worn daily, even if it is winter or cloudy outside. Following these guidelines can help you enjoy the sun while keeping your skin healthy.
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