Sunscreen 101
This time of year, sunscreen is on everyone's shopping list, but sometimes it is hard to pick from all of the choices on the shelf at the store. The U-M Women's Health Program asked an expert for some advice on choosing and using sunscreen.
What Type of Sunscreen Should I Use?
Manisha Thakuria, M.D. a Senior Resident in the Department of Dermatology at the University of Michigan Health System says, "The most important thing to look for is a sunscreen with broad spectrum coverage; that is, one that covers both UVA and UVB, as both may play a role in the development of skin cancers, not to mention undesirable side effects of the sun such as wrinkles, discoloration, and broken blood vessels." Thakuria recommends picking one that has a smell and feel that you like, so you’ll actually use it routinely. Sunscreens now come in lotions, thicker creams, gels, and even sprays.
When Do I Need It?
Thakuria recommends that most people wear a daily sunscreen at least on their face, even if they're not going outdoors. There are now many light moisturizers that contain an SPF of 15, 30, or higher, that are excellent for daily use. She says it will protect them from ultraviolet rays that do not get filtered by window glass. Exposure to UV rays can lead to sun damage and skin cancers. For most people an everyday sunscreen of SPF 15 or 30 is adequate. Thakuria says, "When outdoors people should use at least an SPF 30, but should increase to a higher level if they find that they burn despite that."
Reapply!
It's important to remember that sunscreens need to be reapplied multiple times during the day if you're outdoors in the sun. Thakuria says one application in the morning is not sufficient to provide coverage for an entire day of sun exposure, although it is good enough if you're staying indoors. She adds, "A common thing that people forget, or don't know, is that sunscreens actually get chemically broken down by the sun, in addition to simply being physically removed by sweating, wiping, etc. Most sunscreens on the market need to be reapplied every 1-2 hours while outdoors."
Learn more about the University of Michigan Department of Dermatology and how to protect your skin.
Originally published in June, 2010.
