How to Choose the Right Sunscreen To Protect Your Skin from Overexposure to the Sun's Damaging Rays This Summer.

(I suggest you print this article out and take it with you when you go shopping for a sunscreen.) 

Introduction 

Researchers are warning that many sunscreens don't offer full protection from skin cancer, especially the deadly form called melanoma. They state that most commercially available, sun-blocking lotions protect against ultraviolet B (UVB) see glossary) radiation, but they generally do not contain agents that block the part of the solar spectrum called ultraviolet A (UVA). UVB is firmly linked to the far more common, and less dangerous, forms of skin cancer, squamous-cell and basal-cell tumors. 

However, new research studies show that 90 percent of sunlight's melanoma-causing effect may come from UVA, and only 10 percent from UV-B. Even if you love the sun, the health consequences of sun-worshipping have become more apparent in recent years: wrinkles, blotchy complexion, leathery skin -- and skin cancer. The rise in skin cancers has been linked to lifestyle changes over the past 40 years, such as skimpier bathing suits and clothing, more leisure time spent outdoors and migration to the sunbelt. 

Dangers of the sun's rays 

Ultra-violet and infrared radiations can have harmful effects by altering the epidermis and dermal layer of the skin. Direct exposure of skin to the sun, and therefore to UV radiations, set off free radicals, (see glossary) which degrade cell structures. Effective protection against harmful effects of the sun is now more critical than ever before. More people are living in high-sunshine areas and are engaged in more outdoor recreational activities than ever before. The incidence of skin cancer has risen steadily in the second half of the 20th Century. Your sunscreen must create a protective barrier to shield you skin from the harmful effects of the sun. 

How Sunscreens Should Give You That Protection 

Properties of an effective sunscreen 

The ideal sunscreen should incorporate six scientifically proven methods to provide the best protection possible against the sun.

1. Uva-Uvb Absorption Sunscreens should contain ingredients that absorb the sun's damaging UV radiant energy and also should absorb damaging rays that would normally go directly to your skin. 

2. Heat Dispersion Sunscreen formula should also disperse the sun's energy by using particles that scatter light and reduce heat buildup. 

3. Radiation Absorption It should contain products that have the ability to absorb harmful infrared radiation. This minimizes heat buildup, reduces heat-generated free radicals, and helps keep the skin cool. 

4. Free-Radical Protection All of the sun's UVA, UVB, and IR (Infrared radiation) rays generate damaging free radicals that result in premature aging and wrinkling. Your sunscreen should contain natural herbal extracts that help to protect the lipid-rich cell membranes from oxidation and free-radical damage. 

5. Liposome Delivery System (This one is very technical, but important) Sunscreens should contain microscopic liposomes that periodically release their contents directly into the skin. Liposomes are minute sacs or bags of phospholipids containing botanical extracts of aloe vera, green tea, green coffee, and grape seed extract. 

6. Restorative Properties Sunscreen should contain emollients that moisten, soften, and retard premature skin aging. Herbal ingredients containing natural vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, known to be effective in promoting healthy skin, should be included. 

How to Choose A Sunscreen

Check the label for sunscreens that work against both UVA and UVB for more complete protection. You WANT both! Then check out the level of protection: is it a 15 or 30 or 30+? 

You will have a bit of a challenge finding all the above-mentioned ingredients. To my knowledge so far only one company manufactures to those specifications. But check carefully. If you can't find one that matches this one precisely, settle for one that has as many of them as possible. Just make sure it does cover BOTH UVA and UVB. You need that long-term protection. 


Directions 

Sunscreens can be used as an all-over skin protection or can spot-protect sun-sensitive areas such as the ears, nose, scalp, and cheeks. They can be excellent moisturizers for all skin types and help to promote healing of dry skin. Their non-irritating formula is safe for  sensitive facial skin and won't clog pores. 

Because some are waterproof, rub proof, and sweat proof, you can maintain your skin's natural beauty while out in the sun and enjoy every minute of it. Sunscreen should be liberally applied to all exposed skin surfaces and reapplied periodically, particularly after swimming or in periods of heavy perspiration. Apply sunscreen regularly, cover up exposed skin periodically, and hang out in shady spots whenever possible. Apply it every morning or before exposure to sunlight. Apply it fifteen minutes before going out in the sun and be generous with its application. Always limit your sun exposure during the hottest hours of the day, particularly between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m 


More Sun Care Pointers 

The danger of skin cancer varies widely from one person to the next. Some people who burn easily are more susceptible to skin-cell damage that can lead to cancer. While using top quality sunscreens will help protect you, decreasing your overall exposure to the sun will ultimately reduce its damaging effects. 

Sunscreens do protect against sunburn and when used appropriately do reduce the risk of premature skin aging but they are not a license to sit in the sun all day long without a hat and protective clothing. 

Play it safe in the sun and don't stay too long in the heat as it causes your body to overheat. 

Be sure to wear other forms of sun protection whenever appropriate.  

Wear sunglasses with UVA and UVB protection, and cover any exposed areas of skin as is practical. 

Know that some medications make you more sun and heat-sensitive. This is called photosensitivity. (see glossary). 

Be kind to yourself. Follow these instructions for a relaxing, safe "time out".  

A word of caution: babies under 6 months old should not wear sunscreens and they should be well protected from strong, direct sunlight. 


Glossary: 

(The Mystery of SPF explained) 

Sun Protection Factor (SPF) 

All sunscreens are rated by the Sun Protection Factor listed on the label. 

SPF numbers indicate how much protection from the sun the product will provide for your skin 

SPF 15 & 30 are the recognized ways to identify sunscreens. 

An SPF of 15 means that if you normally burn after 15 minutes of exposure to the sun, it would take 15 times longer (or 225) before you would get a sunburn. 

A higher SPF number doesn't mean a higher degree of UV protection: it means protection from the sun for a longer period of time. 

SPF 15 is for people who tan easily and quickly, or are exposed to sun for a moderate amount of time. 

30+ SPF is for fair-skinned people and those who are out in the sun for extended periods of time.. 

It is recommended that everyone use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15. Those who burn more easily may want to use a higher SPF such as 30 or more. Using two different products (such as SPF 8 makeup and SPF sunscreen) does not give you additional sun protection. You will only be protected according to the one SPF product with the higher number. 

Photosensitivity: your body's increased sensitivity to the sun in reaction to some medications. 

UV: Ultraviolet rays 

UVA: These are ultraviolet rays that are now believed to be linked to skin cancer. 

UVB: These rays are firmly linked to the far more common, and less dangerous, forms of skin cancer, squamous-cell, and basal-cell tumors. 

Free Radical: They are oxygen molecules that have at least one unpaired electron in their outer orbit. If they are not neutralized quickly, they may create a lot of damage to different parts of the body. (That's a very, very basic description.) 

Sunblocks: If you are spending a long period of time on  the water or high on a mountain, sunblocks that completely block the suns/repel rays are worthwhile. The usual type is a zinc oxide ointment that is applied to the nose and cheeks, which are highly exposed to the sun. Some sunblock products are also now available as  lotions and may be referred to as "natural" sunscreens. 

Sunscreens: These are lotions and creams that are rubbed onto the skin and provide protection from the damaging effects of the sun. 


Conclusion 

It's hard to find anything more refreshing than playing on the beach or taking a walk in the park. But whether you are water-skiing, swimming, or playing tennis and golf this summer, even though it's warm and beautiful outside, it can also be dangerous for your skin if it's not protected correctly. 

Some rays of the sun, such as ultra-violet and infrared radiations, can have harmful effects to the body by altering the epidermis and dermal layer of the skin. When directly exposed to the skin, these harmful rays can  cause severe damage, accounting for nearly 700,000 cases of skin cancer per year. So for sun lovers it's important to be aware of the health risks of not protecting your skin. 

Wrinkles, a blotchy complexion, leathery skin, and one of the most hazardous problems-skin cancer, are only a few of the dangers of getting too much sun.  

Remember that sunscreens are just part of the sun protective system you should practice. Don't forget to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day. 

If you would like more information on this topic, or if you would like to know if we could help you get some relief, please use this link to ask your health question or request more information on getting some help. 

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