Pharmacy shelves overflowing with sunscreen bottles of all sizes, shapes and colors is the official sign of summer approaching. This exciting sight brings images of happiness, beaches and tans. But then, ugh, the thought of lathering on the greasy substance quickly detracts from the idea of carefree summer days. However, we really should feel love and admiration towards our dreaded friend who generously protects us from all sun-related horrors – ranging from cancers to illness and burns. With some facts and tips, we can learn to understand our sunscreen better, and appreciate its truly magical gifts.Â
Sunscreen with “broad spectrum protection” protects against UVB and UVA rays
- both rays penetrate the skin and can cause skin cancer, although UVA has longer rays
Apply sunscreen on face every day
- In the deep south (aka New Orleans) the sun’s rays are particularly strong. They can penetrate the skin even when we’re not “tanning” – this includes our walks to class, outside lunches and all early afternoon happy hours :) :)
SPF stands for “sun protection factor”
- the number refers to how much time you can stay in sun without being burned
- ex: SPF 15 = you can stay in sun 15 times longer than without protection
SPFs higher than 30 are only marginally different
- If you’re trying to shield from the sun entirely, the difference between a 60 SPF and 85+ SPF won’t be drastic – save money and buy the lower, less “elite” SPF.
- ex: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Sunblock 100 SPF- can be found online for $10-12Â for 3 oz, Banana Boat SPFÂ 30 – anywhere from $5-10 online for 8 oz
Certain medications can make you more sensitive to sunlight, and thus, more prone to burn
- This includes specific antibiotics and even some acne medications. Check out the sun sensitivity of your prescription before heading to the beach.Â
Ibuprofen and Aspirin can stop the burn from worsening
- When you get the ” oh no, I look like a lobster” moment, immediately take these meds. They can stop inflammation from inside-out and drastically reduce redness the next day.Â
Sunscreen vs. “Suntan lotion”
- Anything with the word “tan” probably doesn’t have any of the protective ingredients you need to ward off UVA and UVB rays. It simply aids the tanning process, but leaves you exposed to the detrimental effects of the sun’s rays.