Health Focus

SUNSCREEN 101

Every time your skin tans or burns, it is damaged.

As the damage builds, you speed up the aging of your skin and increase your risk for skin cancer.

Using sunscreen is the best way to protect your skin from sun rays.

When choosing a sunscreen, knowing some basics will help.

Sunscreens contain filtering substances that reflect or absorb UV rays.

Sunscreens generally use both organic and inorganic ingredients for better blocking. Always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen. Broad spectrum blocks UVA and UVB rays.

The FDA recommends using sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 15.

Dermatologists favor SPF 30 sunscreens, which provide slightly more protection. Regardless, always apply sunscreen thoroughly and frequently when you’re in the sun, especially if you’re swimming or sweating. Sunscreens can be labeled “water resistant” if their labels instruct users to reapply after 40 or 80 minutes of swimming or sweating, immediately after towel drying, and at least every 2 hours.

Using sunscreen can reduce your risk of melanoma skin cancer.

Only broad-spectrum sunscreens with an SPF of 15 or higher can claim to reduce skin cancer or prevent early skin damage.


Top Health May 2014