Our last blog focused on the importance of staying safe during these summer days – or any days – when you’re out in the sun. Using sunscreen anytime you’re outside probably doesn’t even require a second thought, but this blog will discuss a few of the finer points of sunscreen use to help you choose the one(s) that’s right for you. Protection from the sun is important; skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the US, with more than one million new cases reported each year.
Earlier this year, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a proposed rule that would update the regulations required for most sunscreen products sold in the US after decades. Although these regulations are still pending approval, they are worth noting as the FDA seeks to use current science to ensure the safety and effectiveness of sunscreens. Dr. Scott Gottlieb, FDA Commissioner, explained, “The proposal we’ve put forth would improve quality, safety, and efficacy of the sunscreens Americans use every day.”
What is SPF and does it matter?
SPF stands for “sun protection factor” and, in sunscreen, helps to block your skin from the sun’s radiation. You are exposed to this radiation anytime you’re outside (even on cloudy days) or are near a sunny window (which you know if you’ve even gotten sunburned while driving!). The SPF number refers to the amount of protection provided beyond your skin’s normal defenses. An SPF of 50, for example, provides about 50 times more protection than your normal skin. In general, choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
What is the best type of sunscreen? How do I choose?
· Makeup with added sunscreen: Many moisturizers or makeup bases have sunscreen with SPF 15 built in. This is fine when you’ll be indoors all day but be sure to add additional sunscreen when going outside and to those parts of your body without makeup.