Since skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed form of
cancer, I wanted to take this opportunity to talk about some sun protection
facts. Not all sunscreens are created
equal. So, just as we read labels when we shop for
groceries, we also need to read labels when we shop for sunscreens.
What to look for when
choosing a safe and effective sunscreen:
·
Broad-spectrum
protection – your sunscreen needs to protect you from both UV-A and UV-B
rays, as both are harmful to your skin. Sunscreens that cover both are usually labeled
as broad-spectrum.
·
SPF 30-50
– SPF stands for sun protection factor, which is the measurement system used by
laboratories to determine the effectiveness of a sunscreen. The higher the SPF number, the more protection
it offers against the sun’s UV-B rays. You
should use a minimum of SPF 30 to ensure your skin is well protected, but not
go higher than SPF 50+ as there is a lack of evidence to support that these
high levels provide greater protection.
·
Look for active
ingredients of zinc, titanium, avobenzone or Mexoryl SX – these ingredients
offer safe and effective protection without being absorbed by your skin.
·
Avoid
Oxybenzone, Vitamin A and added insect repellent – these ingredients absorb
into the skin and can be harmful to your health. If you require protection from insects as
well, apply the repellent at least 15 minutes after you’ve applied your
sunscreen to cut down on pesticides absorbed.
·
Choose a
lotion or cream – a thick, even layer of lotion or cream provides the best
protection from the sun. Sprays and
powders become airborne and may be harmful when breathed in.
Sun Protection Tips:
1.
Plan your day around the sun! By limiting exposure to the sun between the
hours of 10 and 4, you avoid peak radiation times.
2.
Not a fan of wearing sunscreens? Wear a fabric shield instead! Long, light-weight pants and long-sleeved shirts
protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Don’t
forget your hat and sunglasses, too. Your
eyes are equally susceptible to harmful UV rays.
3.
Watch how long you’re exposed to the sun – even
when wearing sunscreen! Give your body a
break by finding shade. Remember,
wearing sunscreen will not prevent you from over-heating or getting sunstroke,
so take some time to cool off throughout the day and drink plenty of water.
4.
Apply and re-apply! Sunscreens break down when exposed to the sun,
water and sweat; so be sure to reapply frequently. A thick, even layer is what you need. Don’t forget about some often neglected spots
– your neck, your ears, your lips, the backs of your hands and tops of your
feet. Clothing often doesn’t cover these
parts and they’re left exposed.
5.
Don’t be fooled by cloud cover! It is equally important to apply sunscreen on
cloudy and overcast days as you are still exposed to UV rays – just because you
don’t “feel the burn”, doesn’t mean your skin isn’t being damaged.
6.
Don’t be shy about talking to your healthcare
provider about skin abnormalities and moles.
We will keep an eye on them for
you and suggest extra testing if something looks suspicious!
Now that you’re armed with some sun protection facts, get
outside and enjoy the sunshine responsibly!
But before you head to your local store to buy sunscreen, check out the
Environmental Working Group’s recommendations for safe and effective sunscreens
at www.ewg.org/2012sunscreen. You can even search by brand! It’s also a great resource for all your
questions about ingredients in any of your cosmetic products.
Yours in health,
Sarah Oulahen, HBHSc, NDNaturopathic Doctor at SOW Health
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