Summertime Sun Protection
- Hunter Heath
- Jun 21, 2023
- 2 min read
How do they work?
Sunscreen products work by blocking the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays from reaching the skin. Their ingredients are capable of absorbing, scattering, and reflecting these damaging rays so that they don’t cause damage to the skin such as sunburn, skin aging, and even skin cancer.
What does SPF mean?
Sun Protection Factor or “SPF” refers to a product’s effectiveness and ability to prevent sunburn. This is measured as the amount of time you can be exposed to the sun before sunburn takes place with and without a sunscreen product.
(example: 10 mins without = (300 mins) before sunburn with SPF 30 (10 x 30)
What does Broad Spectrum mean?
UV radiation is a “spectrum” of multiple rays known as UVA and UVB. Each type is unique in how it reaches us and our skin so it’s important for Sunscreen products to protect us against both kinds. The US Broad Spectrum Test is a laboratory test used to determine a product’s ability to protect against both ends of the UV radiation spectrum.
Things to consider when choosing Sunscreen products:
Skin type - Anyone can be sunburnt with extended sun exposure but those who need to be the most cautious include those who have pale skin; blonde, red, or light brown hair; and those who have been treated for skin cancer.
Application amount and frequency - The FDA suggests applying sunscreen 15 minutes before going outside and then reapplying it every 2 hours while outdoors. You may need to reapply it more often if you’re sweating or getting in and out of the water.
The water-resistance of the product - FDA regulations prohibit products from claiming to be “waterproof” or “sweatproof” and products that claim to be water-resistant but designate whether it’s for 40 mins or 80 mins.
Simple Sun Safety Tips from the American Cancer Society
Do not use tanning booths, beds, or lamps. These devices do not provide a ‘safer way’ to tan.
When outdoors, stay in the shade whenever possible – particularly between the hours of 10:00 am – 4:00 p.m.
Wear sun-protective clothing such as a long-sleeved shirt, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV protective sunglasses.
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) on all skin that is not covered every day, even when cloudy.
Reapply sunscreen every two hours or immediately after swimming/sweating.
Visit your healthcare professional every year for a skin exam.
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