What you should know about Sun Protection

It’s the summer time so that it means lots of beach or pool time for many and unfortunately lots of sun burns as well. Most of us know about the negative affects of those harsh rays, but do we really know if we’re getting the best protection? Just because you don’t get sunburn after a day in the sun doesn’t equate to guarding your skin. You might think you are in the clear by slathering on a little lotion with SPF but it turns out that we might need more than that.

The current Sun protection factor levels only protect us from UVB rays which cause sunburn. UVA rays damage collagen and cause wrinkles and sun spots, as well as cancer and melanoma. The FDA has called upon manufacturers to provide more detailed information on their labels. This would be the first time they would be required to test and label sunscreens to protect against UVA rays.

You can buy an expensive sunscreen lotion with a high SPF and not even know if you’re being protected against UVA. UVA ages the skin with a longer wavelength that penetrates deeper into the skin and attacks layers that give skin tone and elasticity. Just because you pay $30 for a small tube of cream does not ensure total protection with a broad spectrum. More than 1 million skin cancers are diagnosed in the U.S. every year. Research has shown that the top selling sunscreen brands also have the poorest quality.

Trying to compare products is often difficult and confusing, but we should know what we are getting. Mexoryl, a chemical that protects against UVB rays provides the best protection. Unfortunately, you can’t legally buy it in the Unites States because the FDA hasn’t approved yet. It generally takes about 12 – 15 years for a drug to get approved. Just because it is only legal in countries like Canada and France to name a few, does not necessarily mean it can’t be purchased here – it’s just more difficult to find and very expensive.

Look for sunscreens with helioplex which combines avobenzone (UVA absorber) and oxybenzone (UVB absorber). I have been using a face sunscreen with this broad spectrum protection and have not burned even once. It is also wise to look for a sunscreen that contains titanium, dioxide, or zinc oxide. Lastly, waterproof sunscreen is your best bet, especially when it’s very hot outside or if you are a water baby. Always, always reapply a generous amount to all exposed areas so you don’t end of looking like a patch work quilt. It’s the summer season in most parts of the world, so be safe and take care of your skin!