According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, skin cancer remains the most common form of cancer worldwide with basal cell carcinoma as the most common type. Basal cell carcinoma classifies as a type of nonmelanoma skin cancer: a type that grows in the upper layers of the skin. While skin cancer can be attributed to both environmental and genetic factors, 90% of skin cancer is associated with sun exposure. Luckily, sunscreen can reduce your risk of skin cancer by absorbing and blocking UV rays. The question remains: How do I choose the best sunscreen for me? The countless varieties of sunscreens available can be quite overwhelming but learning about the differences between sunscreens will put you well on the path to becoming a daily sunscreen user!
- UVA and UVB Rays
UV rays is an umbrella term that includes UVA and UVB rays. The United States only requires UVB protection within sunscreens despite both rays being harmful. The difference between the two is that UVA rays tend to cause skin aging while UVB rays cause skin burns. When choosing a daily sunscreen it is important to check for protection against both rays. Sunscreens that are labeled “broad-spectrum SPF” protect against UVA and UVB rays.
- Chemical versus Mineral Sunscreens
Chemical and mineral sunscreen differ in how they protect the skin. Chemical sunscreen offers protection by absorbing UV rays where mineral sunscreens block UV rays. When unsure if a sunscreen is chemical or mineral, the ingredient list is the best place to look. Mineral sunscreens often contain active ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide versus chemical sunscreen that contains oxybenzone, avobenzone, octocrylene, etc. Mineral sunscreens tend to be gentler and are recommended for acne-prone and sensitive skin.
- Should I wear sunscreen indoors?
Growing up wearing sunscreen is emphasized during outdoor activities however daily sunscreen application is recommended, even when indoors. It is crucial to include daily sunscreen as throughout the day you may drive your car or sit by a window. These activities expose you to sun damage as the glass used in cars and building windows is designed to block UVB rays leaving UVA rays the opportunity to penetrate resulting in skin damage. It is best to include sunscreen in your daily routine to make sure you are protected from all UV rays.
- SPF Number
Have you ever wondered what the number of the sunscreen bottle means? SPF stands for sun protection factor and is a measure of how long you can remain in the sun with that sunscreen and avoid sunburn. When choosing a sunscreen, take into consideration the SPF number and reapply as directed.
After recognizing the importance of sunscreen and learning some sunscreen basics you are now equipped with the knowledge and curiosity to begin looking for your daily sunscreen!
Resources:
- https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/skin-cancer-facts/
- https://moffitt.org/cancers/skin-cancer-nonmelanoma/faqs/what-is-the-difference-between-melanoma-and-nonmelanoma-skin-cancer/
- https://www.yalescientific.org/2012/05/how-does-sunscreen-protect-you/
- https://www.byrdie.com/natural-sunscreen-chemical-sunscreen
- https://www.keckmedicine.org/myth-or-fact-you-dont-need-sunscreen-if-you-are-indoors-all-day/