What you need to check on the sunscreen label

Here are some simple tips for sunscreen selection and use from CNN:

- Use a sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 15 and a maximum of SPF 50. SPF 15 can block 93% of incoming UVB rays. SPF 30 blocks 97%. SPF 50 blocks 98%.

- Make sure labels list both UVA and UVB protection

You get exposed to both UVA and UVB light:

UVB light is the light that Burns (causes sunburn)
UVA light as the light that Ages the skin (wrinkles, etc.)


- Avoid products containing oxybenzone and retinyl palminate. They may get absorbed through the skin and may increase cancer risk

- Choose lotions versus spray sunscreens for a more evenly distribution

- Remember to apply at least 2 ounces of lotion (about a shot glass full). Reapply every 2 hours. Reapply after swimming or heavy sweating.

How to apply sunscreen - NHS video:



References:

Avoid sunscreens with potentially harmful ingredients, group warns. CNN, 2012.

How to avoid damaging ultraviolet light - CCJM launches "Patient Page" similar to JAMA

Image source: OpenClipArt.org, public domain.

Sunscreen with high SPF needed at high altitudes: 8-10% increase in sun exposure for every thousand feet of elevation

Golfers playing in Vail, Colorado, at 2500 meters (roughly 8200 feet) above sea level, got significantly more burn protection from sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 70+ compared to one with an SPF of 15.

There is 8-10 percent increase in sun exposure for every thousand feet of elevation. In the summertime, you can get anywhere from 40 percent to 50 percent greater sun intensity than at sea level.

References:
Sunscreen with high SPF needed at high altitudes, Reuters.

What sunscreen to use for children?

Study confirms sunscreen prevents melanoma http://goo.gl/16Vqd

Can You Get Sunburned Through a Car Window? http://goo.gl/M7Fwv - No, but penetrating UVA rays may be related to left-sided skin cancers.

Related:

Melanoma - JAMA Patient Page illustrates the ABCDE of diagnosis, 2011.

Image source: Amazon, for illustration only, not a suggestion to buy any products.
Only 25% of Children Wear Sunscreen Regularly. WebMD, 2012.

How to apply sunscreen

NHSChoices: An expert explains why it is important to protect your skin from sunburn to help avoid skin cancer. She also gives advice on how to apply sunscreen correctly and what to look out for when buying sunscreen.

You get exposed to both UVA and UVB light:

- UVB light is the light that Burns (causes sunburn)

- UVA light as the light that Ages the skin (wrinkles, etc.)

There is 8-10% increase in sun exposure for every 1,000 feet of elevation. In the summertime, you can get anywhere from 40-50% greater sun intensity than at sea level

Related reading:

Only 25% of Children Wear Sunscreen Regularly. WebMD, 2012.