The sunscreen aisle offers lots of choices, but which one is right for you? Learn how to find sunscreen that works for you.
Summer is here, and outdoor activities take center stage as we make memories with family and friends.
The sun’s rays can make us feel good and, in the short term, make us look good. But our love affair isn’t a two-way street. We often connect a glowing complexion with good health, but exposure to the sun can accelerate the effects of aging and increase the risk for skin cancer.
That’s why protecting our skin is so important. Sunscreens are products that help prevent the sun’s ultraviolet radiation from reaching the skin. The sunlight that reaches us is made up of two types of harmful rays.
Ultraviolet A (UVA) rays penetrate the skin more deeply and are associated with wrinkling and other signs of skin aging. According to recent research, UVA rays may also cause skin cancer.
Ultraviolet B (UVB) rays are the leading cause of skin reddening and sunburn. UVB rays play a key role in the development of skin cancer and a contributory role in skin aging and wrinkling.
When it comes to selecting sunscreen, you need to read the label. Sun Protection Factor — or SPF — is a measure of how long you can stay in the sun before UVB rays start to turn your skin red. Let’s say your skin starts turning red in 20 minutes without sunscreen. An SPF 30 sunscreen theoretically allows you to stay in the sun 30 times longer. But, keep in mind, SPF numbers are determined in a lab.
In the real world, no matter what the SPF, sunscreens start to lose effectiveness over time, and no sunscreen can block 100 percent of all UV rays. Liberally apply sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure to allow the ingredients to fully bind to the skin, and then reapply the same amount every two hours or immediately after swimming, toweling off or heavy sweating.
The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends using a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 15 or higher and using SPF 30 or higher for extended stays outdoors. Broad spectrum sunscreen provides protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
If you’re going to be swimming or playing sports outdoors, consider using sunscreens labeled as water-resistant or sweat-resistant, which can remain effective for a longer period of time. If you have sensitive skin or skin conditions like rosacea, you may benefit from using a sunscreen designed for children with ingredients such as titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. And if you have skin irritation or allergies, avoid sunscreens with alcohol, fragrances or preservatives. Other sunscreens include moisturizers or other ingredients for dry or oily skin. As long as they’re broad spectrum sunscreen with UVA and UVB protection, you can give them a try and see what works best for you to keep you and your family sun-safe this summer!
