She Strengthens

Sunscreen Savvy: Uncovering the Truth About Your Skin’s Best Defense

When it comes to sun protection, knowledge is power. With so many options available, finding the right sunscreen can be overwhelming. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here’s the lowdown on what you need to know to make an informed decision.

The Stats Don’t Lie

Using a minimum SPF 15 sunscreen daily can reduce your risk of squamous cell carcinoma by 40% and melanoma by 30%. And with skin cancer being the most common cancer in the US, it’s crucial to take sun protection seriously. In fact, up to 80% of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays still reach us on cloudy days, making daily sunscreen use a must.

Glass Half Full… of UV Rays

Even if you’re indoors, you’re not completely safe from UV rays. Glass doesn’t offer full protection, and those deep-reaching UVA rays can penetrate windows, putting you at risk. So, whether you’re driving, sitting by a window, or enjoying the outdoors, sunscreen is a must.

Skin Tone Matters, But Not as Much as You Think

While fair skin is more prone to melanoma, any skin tone can be affected by this type of cancer. The good news is that using a minimum SPF 30 sunscreen can provide adequate protection, regardless of your skin tone. And if you’re heading to a tropical holiday or have very fair skin, consider upping the ante to factor 50.

The Cumulative Burden: Understanding UV Exposure

UV exposure builds up over your lifetime, increasing your risk of developing skin cancer. The higher the level, the greater your risk. So, it’s essential to take sun protection seriously from an early age.

Wrinkles, Sagging, and Age Spots: The Consequences of Basking Without Protection

Without sunscreen, you’re not only at risk of skin cancer but also wrinkles, sagging, age spots, rosacea, and actinic keratoses. The good news is that studies show applying sunscreen can protect against these issues, too.

Vitamin D: You Don’t Need the Sun to Get It

While vitamin D is essential for our health, you don’t need to sacrifice sun protection to get it. There’s no evidence to suggest sunscreen inhibits vitamin D production, and you can always boost your levels through food and supplements.

Mineral or Chemical: What’s the Difference?

Both mineral and chemical sunscreens are FDA-approved and safe. They deliver protection in slightly different ways, with chemical sunscreens working through chemical reaction and mineral-based sunscreens reflecting rays. If you have sensitive skin, stick to mineral, but if you’re on a budget, chemical sunscreens are generally more affordable.

The Impact of Oxybenzone: A Toxic Truth

Oxybenzone, a common sunscreen chemical, has been found to be toxic to marine life. Look for sunscreens without this chemical to ensure you’re doing your part for the ocean.

SPF: What Does It Really Mean?

SPF stands for sun protection factor, but it’s not as simple as it sounds. It’s a relative measure of how long a sunscreen will protect you from UV rays, based on the minimal erythema dose (MED). So, if you’re fair-skinned and burn easily, you’ll need a higher SPF.

Applying and Reapplying: The Key to Sunscreen Success

All the education in the world won’t help if you don’t apply and reapply sunscreen correctly. Apply 15-20 minutes before going into the sun, use more than you think you need, and reapply every 2 hours. Don’t forget to dry off after swimming, and consider using a shot glass full of sunscreen for your whole body.

Sunscreen Around the World: What You Need to Know

Sunscreen made outside the US often provides more protection, as it focuses on both UVA and UVB rays. Ingredients like mexoryl and tinosorb, lauded for their UVA-fighting properties, are deemed safe by the EU but remain illegal in the US. Japan has its own rating system, PA+, which indicates UVA protection levels.

Face vs. Body: Does It Really Matter?

While you can buy separate sunscreens for your face and body, protection levels are what matter most. However, facial sunscreens tend to be thinner and less likely to clog pores, so consider investing in two if breakouts are a regular occurrence.

A Three-Point Checklist for Buying Sunscreen

Look for The Skin Cancer Foundation’s Seal of Recommendation, aim for a broad-spectrum sunscreen, and consider water-resistance if you plan on making a splash. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a sunscreen expert.