Facts about Sunscreen

By Gail Erickson

SPF or ­Sun Protection Factor is rated from 2 to over 50 depending on a product’s ability to deflect the sun’s rays. Sunlight consists of two types of damaging rays – UVA and UVB. UVA rays are blocked by window glass, but are the primary cause of sunburn and skin cancer. UVB rays can penetrate window glass and can also penetrate deeper into the skin, reaching the dermis. Hence, UVB also is a cause of skin cancer and possible sunburn.

When considering a sunscreen it is important a product protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen that contains ingredients such as: benzophones, oxybenzone, sulisobenzone, titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, avobenzone (Parsol 1789) and ecamsule (Mexoryl SX). These ingredients help extend coverage beyond the UVA and into the UVB range.

Unless your sunscreen container has a printed expiration date, the FDA requires all sunscreens to be stable and at their original strength for at least 3 years. So it is okay to start this beach season with last year’s sunscreen. Keep in mind, if you are using the proper amount (1 oz or enough to fill one shot glass covers the body once) and reapplying enough (every 2 hours if dry or 80 minutes if wet) your sunscreen will not last long.

Be Sun Smart!

Sun exposure is the most preventable risk factor for skin cancer! Here are some great tips to keep safe: 

• Don’t skimp on the screen!  Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen and reapply every two hours and after swimming or sweating.

• Cover up! Long-sleeved shirts, rash guards with an SPF, wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses look cool and are available for the entire family.

• Seek shade! The sun’s rays are the strongest between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm so find shade when enjoying the outdoors during these times.

• Check your birthday suit on your birthday! If you notice anything changing color, shape, size or bleeding on your skin seek a dermatologist. When caught early, skin cancer is usually very treatable.

Gail Erickson is a licensed Clinical Esthetician with an English degree from USF, Tampa. She works at Practically Frivolous, a full-service salon in St. Petersburg. Please direct any skin care questions to gail_erickson@yahoo.com