Sunscreen and Common Misconceptions

Sunscreens come in many forms from lotions to sprays to cloth wipes.  The purpose is to help protect your skin from being burned by the sun’s rays. A chemical agent keeps the UV or ultraviolet rays from reaching your skin and decreases th risk of skin cancer.

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and helps fight off UVB rays.  UVA rays are the type of rays that can accelerate sagging skin, leathering, and wrinkling. UVB are the ones that cause sunburn. 

Most sunscreens that have SPF 15 are good enough for protecting us. One way to think about it is that SPF 15 protects us 15 times longer than without any sunscreen. SPF 30 is 30 times longer before reddening or burning happens and so on.  No sunscreen can protect 100% but if you are fair skinned or have a history of skin cancer in your family it would be best to go with the higher SPF sunscreen.

Anyone who is out in the sun should put on sunscreen or anyone who works in a sunny office or building with many windows should protect themselves. Of course, the best way to protect yourself is with shade and light clothing that has long sleeves and pant legs.

Many sunscreens that advertise as water resistant are good if you plan to be out for a long time or playing sports and will sweat.  However, sunscreen should be reapplied every 3 to 4 hours for maximum benefits. You should put sunscreen on about 30 minutes before you go outside so it has time to dry and absorb into the skin. 

As great as it is to be tan or lay in the sun on nice days, you need to protect your skin.  There are some misconceptions that sunscreen can drain you of Vitamin D, but it’s not true.  Also on cloudy days, the sun still penetrates and can burn you.

If you’re not sure what brand to buy look for a seal of recommendation from the Skin Cancer Foundation. Protecting yourself from harmful rays will help you stay healthier, look younger, and be happier that you’re not sun burned and in pain.