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.) 

Six Points To Consider When Choosing A Sunscreen

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) 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 UVB. 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. 


How Sunscreens Should Give You Protection

1: Does your sunscreen provide UVA & UVB absorption?

Your sunscreen should contain ingredients that absorb UVA & UVB the sun's damaging UV radiant energy and also should absorb damaging rays that would normally go directly to your skin.  


2: Does your sunscreen disperse heat?

Your sunscreen formula should also disperse (spread around) the sun's energy by using particles that scatter light and reduce heat buildup.


3: Does your sunscreen absorb radiation?

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: Does your sunscreen give you 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: Does it deliver Lipomes?

Your sunscreen 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: Does it have restorative properties?

Your 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.


Understanding SPF

Sun Protection Factor (SPF) 

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

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 minutes) 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.. 


Conclusion

Check the label for UVA and UVB protection. 
Check for length of protection: SPF 15 or 30+. 

If you can't find one that matches this criteria precisely, settle for one that has as many of them as possible.

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. 

This article is not meant to replace consultation with trained health care professionals. The publisher and author are not responsible for any adverse consequences of effects resulting from the use of any of the information or suggestions contained in this article. All research has been done in good faith, using recognized sources.

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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