The Facts about Skin Damage and Sunscreens!
Melanoma has increased eightfold in women ages 18-39 from 1970 to 2009!
Both types of rays from the sun, UVA and UVB, can do damage to collagen fibers leading to premature aging of the skin AND can damage DNA contributing to skin cancer. UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and have the ability to pass through glass and clouds. UVB rays are primarily responsible for burns. Tanning beds are predominantly UVA and therefore even with a tanning bed “tan” it is still possible to get a sunburn from the sun’s UVB rays.
SPF is an acronym for Sun Protection Factor which only rates the amount of UVB rays that reach the skin. Therefore it is important to use a “broadspectrum” product that also has a physical barrier such as zinc or titanium dioxide for both UVB and UVA protection. It is recommended that the SPF be a minimum of 15. This allows 1/15th of the sun’s UVB radiation to reach the skin. Use preferably an SPF 30 which provides a 97% protection from UVB rays.
(Did You Know? Anti-oxidants like vitamin C serum when applied before your sunscreen help to prevent sun damage which can accelerate aging and wrinkles.)
A recent study in Japan showed that one application of sunscreen effectively covered only 60% of the intended area but a second application increased this to 90%. It is also recommended to apply sun protection 30 minutes before sun exposure to allow the chemicals to absorb into the skin. Reapplying the product every 2 hours is necessary because the formulas break down in the presence of sunlight within that time. Use about two tablespoons to cover face neck, chest, ears, and hands.
All of the sun protection products at our office have both UVA and UVB formulations. We also sell a number of anti-oxidant, vitamin C serums. Call to make an appointment to see one of our skin care nurses who will clarify which product would be best for you. The skin care nurses are available Monday through Friday with some evening and Saturday hours.
We have retinoids and sunscreens 20% off for April and May.
Here’s to Beautiful Skin,
Cincinnati Institute of Medical Skin Care
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