[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]It’s summer, and time for fun in the sun. So it’s a great time to review the experts’ advice on avoiding sunburn and skin damage as you enjoy the outdoors.
The U.S. Food & Drug Administration recommends these sunblock basics.
- Use broad spectrum sunscreens that block both UVA and UVB rays.
- Choose Sunburn Protection Factor (SPF) values of 15 or higher.
- Follow package directions and apply sunscreen properly.
- Reapply at least every two hours, more often if you’re sweating or spending time in the water.
Let’s shine a brighter light on the subject.
Learn the ABCs of broad spectrum. UVA and UVB rays each cause different sorts of damage to different skin layers. If you’re not using a product labeled ‘Broad Spectrum,’ you’re missing vitally important protection.
Get your minerals. Many of the latest sunblock products are mineral-based instead of chemical. Look for the words ‘titanium oxide’ or ‘zinc oxide’ on the label. While chemical sunblocks require application 30 minutes before sun exposure in order to activate on your skin, mineral sunblocks work right out of the bottle. What’s more, some of the chemicals used in sunblocks are associated with skin irritation and other side effects.
How much SPF is enough? While SPF 15 is the recommended minimum, you might see numbers of 70 or greater. Most experts agree that an SPF of 50 is likely the maximum level that makes an effective difference in protection. Higher SPFs offer only a few percentage points of added defense, as measured in sun exposure time. Studies also show that people may spend more time out in the sun when they are wearing very high SPFs, putting themselves at greater risk.
Proper application is key. Look at the directions on the bottle. If the quantity isn’t specified, use a big nickel-sized blob on your face, and an ample handful, about two tablespoons, for your body. Apply thickly and evenly, and get help for your back and other hard-to-reach places. Look at the expiration date, too. Sunblock generally loses its effectiveness in the span of a year or two; discard outdated bottles.
Sun protection is about more than just sunscreen. You should reduce your risk of sunburn and skin damage by taking other sun safety precautions, like:
- Wearing clothes – sleeves, shorts and pants, long skirts, and hats to shield your face, neck, and scalp.
- Finding or making shade – under trees, canopies, and umbrellas.
- Scheduling outdoor time before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m., to avoid the hours of the most direct sunlight.
- Putting on sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV radiation.
Take special care of the kids. Infants under six months of age should avoid all sun exposure. Children over that age should wear sunblock. Set a good example by protecting your own skin when the family goes out in the summer sun.
Sources:
- Sunscreen and Sun Protection (FDA)
- Guide to Sunscreens (Environmental Working Group)
- Sun Protections, Prevention Guidelines (Skin Cancer Foundation)
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