Summer is here and it is time to remind everyone about the need to use sunscreens, and all the do’s, don’t's and misconceptions. First of all, the obvious; yes, a golden summer tan looks great, but the trade-off is premature aging and skin cancer! These effects can be minimized with some rational behavior regarding the use of sunscreens.
Let’s address the misconceptions. The SPF rating. What offers the most protection? SPF of 35, 50, 100? Confusing, at best! Theoretically, the SPF number, say 50, means that your skin will not burn (it blocks the sun’s UVB rays that cause sunburns) until it has been exposed to 50 times the amount of solar energy that would normally cause it to burn. However, there are several variables affecting that number. Those variables include time of day (high noon, when sun is hottest vs early morning or late afternoon), skin type of user(fair skin burns faster!), amount of sunscreen applied and frequency of application, how much you sweat, and the amount absorbed. Recent studies strongly question the effectiveness of sunscreens with SPF higher than 50 providing more protection that say one with SPF of 35 or 50. Finally the FDA is supposedly getting involved with the SPF controversy!
Considering all of the above, here is my recommendation. When outdoors for any length of time in the summer, find a sunscreen with a SPF of 35 to 50, and apply it 20 to 30 minutes prior to going out to allow absorption by the skin. Do not skimp! Apply generously, 2 tablespoons of sunscreen to the face alone! Re-apply every 2 hours, and more frequently if you are exercising and sweating a lot, or after swimming. Remember, Sunscreens block UVB rays only, the ones that cause sunburn! UVA rays from the sun cause skin damage and premature aging, and are unaffected by most sunscreens. Only those containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide partially block UVA rays. Of course, a big hat or tightly woven tee shirts will provide complete protection, so cover up after a while, and get the best of both worlds.
My next blog will address the issues of adequate Vitamin D (from the sun) and accusations that some sunscreens can be harmful. Hint, keep using sunscreens for now!
