The guidelines on what you can and can’t put on sunscreen labels has gone through quite a few changes in the last few years – but many people aren’t aware of the changes. The Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology recently reported the results from a survey which found that only 14.3 percent of American men, and 29.9 percent of American women claimed that they regularly used sunscreen. Those numbers are staggering; everyone should be wearing either sunscreen, regardless of how your skin handles sun exposure.
But, with so few people regularly wearing sunscreen, it’s likely that even fewer people know much about just how helpful sunscreen is in defending against skin cancer caused from harmful UV rays. This article is going to go over four facts regarding sunscreen that you probably didn’t realize.
- Never Settle for Less Than 30 SPF
A Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30, is about what anyone needs to stay covered from harmful UV rays. 30 SPF will protect you from 97 percent of the ultra-violet exposure emanating from the sun. It is important to note that there is no direct correlation between SPF and the length of its activity – for example, an SPF of 50 will protect you for around 150 minutes; this, however, does not mean that an SPF of 100 will protect you for 300 minutes.
- Look for “Broad Spectrum” on the Label
There are many, many different ways to create a sunscreen, and not all of them are effective as the others. Some brands, while doing a great job of defending against UVB rays, will leave you completely vulnerable against UVA exposure; or vice-versa. The term “Broad Spectrum” is regulated by the FDA and no brand can use this terminology without meeting their standard protection against both UVA and UVB radiation.
- No Sunscreen is Waterproof
Another aspect of the new labeling system mandates that manufacturers can no longer claim that their brand of sunscreen is “Sweatproof” or “Waterproof.” However, they may make distinctions between “Water-Resistant” – which refers to its ability to remain effective 40 minutes after water exposure, and “Very Water-Resistant” which indicates it’s effective for up to 80 minutes after water exposure.
- Reapply After Two Hours
While it’s true that lotion may rub off or fade away after the two-hour mark, the real reason for this is new regulations from the FDA saying that no manufacturer may label a product’s effectiveness for longer than two hours without reapplication, unless they submit data to prove otherwise.
These may seem like simple things to keep in mind when using or preparing to use sunscreen- but they can be life-saving facts. SkinCancer.org cites that one in five Americans will contract some form of skin cancer over the course of their lifetime. Over the past three decades, more Americans have had some variety of skin cancer versus every other kind of cancer combined. Be smart about your day trips, respect the power of the sun, and you’ll be sure to have a great time and make great memories that last a skin cancer-free lifetime.
Nicole Sender says
Thank you for encouraging the use of sunscreen. There is so much false narrative and your clarification of the facts is appreciated.
Nicole Sender says
Thank you for encouraging the use of sunscreen. There is so much false narrative and your clarification of the facts is appreciated.
Heather S says
Thanks for promoting healthypositive sun safe practices 🙂