Usually we start thinking about sun safety in the heat of the summer, but right now there seems to be a peak in the number of people exercising outdoors. Because of the current pandemic, our gyms are closed, we can’t go to the yoga studio, and the kids and grandkids are out of school. Instead, people are going outdoors with their loved ones (a good thing), and they are walking, running, hiking and biking. It’s great to see, really, so long as everyone is keeping a safe distance.
I thought this would be a good time to share some information from the Skin Cancer Foundation about sunscreen use. Using sunscreen is an important part of a complete sun protection strategy, which should also include wearing protective clothing and a hat, UV-blocking sunglasses, seeking shade and avoiding prolonged sun exposure during the hours of 10 AM and 4 PM.
Regular daily use of sunscreen has been proven to decrease your risk of skin cancers and precancers, but it is important to use it correctly. So, we are going to look at the Who, What, When, Where, Why and How of sunscreen use.
Who should use sunscreen?
The short answer is everyone! Anyone over the age of 6 months should use sunscreen, regardless of skin color. People with darker skin can get sunburns and skin cancer even though they may have more natural protection than lighter skinned individuals. Babies under 6 months of age are the exception because their skin is highly sensitive. They should be protected with clothing and shade.
What type of sunscreen should you use?
There are so many choices when it comes to sunscreen, so how do you choose? The Skin Cancer Foundation believes that it is best to choose one that you are most likely to use, so long as it is safe and effective. There are physical sunscreens, which use ingredients like titanium dioxide or zinc oxide that scatter the sun’s rays. There are also chemical sunscreens like avobenzone and octisalate, which absorb the sun’s rays. Both have been tested and are considered safe and effective.
Be sure your sunscreen blocks both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays. These are usually labeled as “broad spectrum.”
Sunscreens are available in a wide range of SPF ratings. This stands for Sun Protection Factor, and the number tells you how long the sun’s UVB rays would take to redden your skin if used correctly. For example, when using an SPF 30 product, it would take about 30 times longer to burn than if you used no sunscreen.
If you are mostly indoors, an SPF 15 is sufficient, but if you spend time outdoors you should use at least an SPF 30.
When should you apply sunscreen?
Every day! The best practice is to apply 30 minutes before going outside, reapplying every two hours, and reapplying immediately after swimming or excessive sweating.
Where should you apply sunscreen?
Experts recommend that you apply sunscreen to your entire body before dressing. This way, your skin is protected if your clothing shifts or you remove layers. At the very least, you should apply sunscreen to every part of your body that will be exposed, taking care to include the tops of your ears, back of your neck, your scalp (or your part line), the tops of your feet and behind your knees. These are easily missed spots.
How much sunscreen do you need?
Apply one ounce, about a shot glass full, to your entire body. Many people do not use a sufficient amount and therefore, don’t get adequate protection.
Why should you use sunscreen?
Sunscreen reduces your overall UV exposure and lowers your risk of skin cancers. Melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, can be fatal if not found and treated early. UV exposure also ages your skin, leading to wrinkles, sagging skin, and “age spots.”
Enjoy your time outdoors, but be safe! That includes being sun safe as well as doing your civic duty and keeping a safe distance from others.