Local. Independent. Physician-Owned Since 1949.

What To Look For When Choosing Sunscreen

It’s summer time! That means it’s time to think about sunscreen, sun protection, and enjoying Colorado’s outdoors.

How do you go about picking a sunscreen? Reading the label can feel like learning a foreign language. What does it all mean?

SPF (Sun Protection Factor)

– SPF 30 or higher is recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology
– It comes from dividing the amount of time it takes to have a sunburn on skin with sunscreen by the time it takes to get a sunburn on skin without sunscreen
– Only estimates protection against one type of UV rays (UVB)

Broad Spectrum

– Always buy sunscreen with Broad Spectrum on the label
– Only sunscreens labeled Broad Spectrum protect against both types of UV rays (both UVA and UVB)

Ingredients

– Barrier sunscreens are best
– Look for zinc oxide and titanium dioxide on the label
– May still have white color on skin after applying
– Avoid sunscreens with oxybenzone because it has some mild hormonal properties

Reapply, Reapply Reapply!

– Always reapply sunscreen every 2-3 hours, more often if swimming or in water
– Always use adequate amounts of sunscreen. The average adult should use about 1 oz per full body application
– Remember, for infants older than 6mo old slather it on. For infants less than 6mo old, use small amount on exposed areas only (hands, nose, face).

Photoprotective Clothing

– Measured with UPF (ultraviolet protective factor)
– Good: UPF 15-24
– Very Good: UPF 25-39
– Excellent: UPF 40-50
– Shirts, hats, blankets, shorts all available
– Great for babies and children of all ages (great protection for infants less than 6mo)

General Sun Safety Reminders

– Avoid peak sun exposure (stay indoors as much as possible between 10am and 4pm)
– Infants less than 6mo old should stay in the shade as much as possible
– Reapply sunscreen frequently!
– Stay hydrated, make sure you and your child are drinking plenty of water

Feel free to give our office a call with any questions. As always this is intended for informational purposes only, it does not replace consultation with a medical professional.

Sources:

HealthyChildren.org

American Academy of Dermatology Sun Protection Basic Dermatology Education Module

Dr. Andrea Mertz

BACK