All About Sunscreen

The summer sunshine is fun and inviting but remaining protected will ensure you can enjoy it all summer long. Everyone 6 months and older should use sunscreen every time they go outside, but how do you know which one is right for you? According to skincancer.org, there are two types of sunscreen:

• Physical (mineral) sunscreen ingredients (including the minerals titanium dioxide and zinc oxide) block and scatter the rays before they penetrate your skin.
  • Chemical sunscreen ingredients (like avobenzone and octisalate) absorb UV rays before they can damage your skin.

What does SPF mean?

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and indicates how long the sun’s UVB rays would take to redden your skin. If you use SPF 30, it will take 30 times longer to burn than if you didn’t use sunscreen. An SPF 30 allows about 3 percent UBV rays  to hit your skin.

When choosing a sunscreen, look for:

1. Broad spectrum – protects you from both UVA and UVB rays

   1. SPF 15 is ideal for every day, occasional exposure

   2. SPF 30 or higher is necessary for extended outdoor activities

   3. Water resistant – No sunscreen is waterproof; they all eventually wash off. Water resistant is effective for up to 40 minutes of swimming