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With summer coming up, we all need to know how to protect ourselves and our children from the sun. With the vast array of products available today, how do we decide what to buy? Sunburns are caused by overexposure of the skin to ultraviolet light emitted by the sun.
How do I protect myself from the sun?
The first thing you need to know is the difference between sunblock and sunscreen. Sunblocks, such as zinc oxide, are used primarily on small areas of the body that are highly exposed to the sun's rays. They work by blocking the sun from reaching the skin. These products are usually white or colored and are applied to the nose and the tops of the ears. Sunscreens are used to protect the rest of the body and there are many different products to choose from. Sunscreens work by absorbing into the skin and absorbing the UV light from the sun. To protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays, you will want to look for products that contain avobenzone or menthyl anthranilate.
What is SPF?
The amount of rays that are blocked are rated on a scale called SPF, or sun protection factor. The FDA assigned the following categories to the SPF ratings. Anything from SPF 2 to less than 12 will have minimal sunburn protection. Those rated 12 to less than 30 will have moderated sunburn protection. SPF 30 is the maximum protection, which is good protection for all skin types. SPF 30 is also recommended for children and babies. You will want to check with your physician in using sunblocks and sunscreens on children less than 6 months old.
When do I apply a product?
It is important that you apply your sunscreen at least 15 to 30 minutes before sun exposure. This gives it plenty of time to start to work. You want to cover all exposed parts of the
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body. Don't forget the tops of the ears, your back and the backs of your legs. You may want to have someone help you apply so you can reach all areas. The sunscreen must be reapplied as well. A sunscreen that is reported to be water resistant (including sweating, exercising and swimming) is effective for approximately 40 minutes. Those that are very water resistant, which can also be labeled as waterproof, have activity for around 80 minutes. You will want to reapply according to package instructions, keeping in mind the above timelines. Another part of the body that is often forgotten is the lips. An SPF 15 lip balm is adequate to protect the lips from sunburn. But don't forget that it will need to be reapplied throughout the day as well.
What do you do if you get a sunburn?
The first thing to do if you have a sunburn is to get out of the sun immediately. Take a cool shower or bath or use cool compresses to the affected area. Over the counter pain medication such as ibuprofen, aspirin, acetaminophen or naproxen sodium can be taken to relieve the pain. Drink plenty of water. Keep the skin hydrated with lotion or aloe vera gel. Some aloe vera products available, such as Solarcaine Aloe Extra Burn Relief, contain lidocaine. Lidocaine will temporarily numb the skin to help relieve the pain. Products such as Solarcaine spray will also contain topical pain relivers. Although these products can be effective, some people can be allergic to topical anesthetics such as lidocaine or benzocaine, so use them with caution.
If you have any questions about what sunscreen is right for you and your family please ask your pharmacist. For more information visit: www.healthy.net or
www.beach-net.com/Oceansunsafety. Have a safe and fun summer!
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