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:
American Academy of Dermatology Sun Protection Basic Dermatology Education Module