Healthy Living

Now that summer is upon us, it is important that we all play it safe in the sun. Sunscreen is an easy and effective way to protect ourselves from the damaging effects of the sun’s ultraviolet rays.

The sun’s rays contain both UVA and UVB radiation. While UVB radiation causes sunburns, UVA radiation can increase one’s chances of developing skin cancer, as well as early skin aging. It is important to use a broad spectrum sunscreen to protect against both UVA and UVB radiation.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently made changes regarding the labeling of sunscreen products in an effort to provide consumers with all the information needed to select an appropriate product.

All products must specify the sun protective factor, SPF, which is measure of the sunscreen’s effectiveness. A product may only be labeled as “broad spectrum” if it provides protection against both UVA and UVB radiation, and is SPF 15 or greater. These products have been shown to not only protect against sunburn, but also against skin cancer and early skin aging.

Products that do not have “broad spectrum” labeling, as well as those with SPF values of less than 15, may only claim to protect against sunburn.

Additionally, products may no longer claim to be “waterproof” or “sweatproof.”

A product may claim to be “water resistant” provided the label states how long the sunscreen remains effective while swimming and/or sweating. If a product does not state that it is “water resistant,” it must include instructions to guide the consumer that another product will be needed if swimming or sweating is expected.

For the best protection:

• Sunscreen should be applied 15-30 minutes before sun exposure, and should be reapplied 15-30 minutes after sun exposure begins.
• Reapply every 2-3 hours at a minimum, and more often if sweating or swimming.
• For full protection, the average adult should apply approximately two tablespoons of lotion to sun-exposed areas. Applying less can reduce the effectiveness.
• Wear an SPF-certified lip balm, and apply frequently.
• Remember to adhere to all product expiration dates and discard once this date has passed. For sunscreens that do not have an expiration date, discard all unused portions within three years of opening. Additionally, exposure to excessive heat, such as in the car or at the beach, may decrease the effectiveness of the sunscreen.

Applying a broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF of 15 or higher, along with protective clothing, anti-UV sunglasses, and SPF-certified lip balm, is the best way to protect you and your loved ones from the damaging effects of the sun’s ultraviolet radiation. Proper application and reapplication is essential to ensure that full protection is achieved.

Although the new FDA regulations regarding labeling of sunscreen products are not required until the summer of 2012, it is likely that these changes will be seen much sooner. It is important that we all know our sun exposure limits, and take all necessary steps to protect ourselves while in the sun.

Jillian Asselin, PharmD, is a pharmacist at The William W. Backus Hospital. The information in this column should not replace the advice of your personal physician. If you want to comment on this column or others, visit the Healthy Living blog at www.backushospital.org/backus-blogs or e-mail Ms. Asselin or any of the Healthy Living columnists at healthyliving@wwbh.org