The Doctor Is In

When the Beatles sang “Here comes the sun, and I say it’s alright,” they were clearly not thinking about sunscreen and protection from sunburn and skin cancer. Most of us want to enjoy the summer weather outside, but what is the best way to protect ourselves and our families from the sun’s harmful rays?

Sunscreen is part of the solution. When choosing a sunscreen, check the SPF for UBV protection. The SFF number indicates how well the sunscreen protects against ultraviolet B rays.

If you would normally get a sunburn in 10 minutes, an SPF of 15, for example, will extend that amount of time by a factor of 15 (so 150 minutes). Most experts agree that a minimum SPF of 30 is the best way to protect yourself, but SPFs of 50 or even 100 can provide that much more protection.

Interestingly, the SPF on the label only refers to protection against UVB rays, so also look for a label that describes broad spectrum or multi-spectrum resistance to cover UVA rays as well, which still pose their own risks to skin.

In addition, look for water resistance—and keep in mind that no products are truly waterproof. It is vital to reapply your sunscreen throughout the day, around every 80 minutes, or more often after you have been swimming or sweating.

Applying enough sunscreen is also important. It is recommended to apply at least one ounce to the body and a nickel-sized amount to the face during each application. Wearing broad-brimmed hats and sunglasses with UVA and UVB protection will also help prevent burns.

Don’t forget that sunscreen can expire, so if your bottle doesn’t have an expiration date on it, mark the date down you bought it and toss it after three years, as it will lose effectiveness at that point.

Powder sunscreen resembles face powder, so the sunscreen particles are dispersed in a powder rather than a cream, lotion or spray. Most powder sunscreens are mineral based with ingredients like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which physically block UV rays from your skin. They usually do not come in an SPF higher than 30, and they have become a popular option for those who don’t like the feeling of applying lotion.

Unfortunately, dermatologists agree that powder sunscreen should not replace traditional sunscreen, as it would take a very thick layer of powder to get the concentration needed for protection and it can rub off quite easily. It is best used as a touch-up throughout the day after your initial application of traditional sunscreen. The benefits of sunscreen powder are that it can be used over makeup, and it is good for sensitive skin and can be applied on the go.

If somehow you still end up with a sunburn, take frequent cool baths or showers to help relieve the pain. Use a moisturizer with aloe or soy to help soothe the skin, and drink extra water.

As Annie sang, “The sun’ll come out tomorrow,” so be ready for it, and please protect yourself.

Have a question you want to see answered by Dr. Raskin in a future issue of the Post? Send it to mypost@palipost.com for consideration.