How Effective Is Your Sunscreen?

From SPF to Water Resistance, Your Ultimate Guide to Protection Against Harmful UV Rays

Summer is here. The days are longer, the sun is stronger, and we are outdoors more.

Our dermatologists remind patients that “It’s important to remember that there’s no such thing as 'light base, or safe tan.'  An individual’s skin darkens or tans as a result of protecting itself from harmful UV rays. A tan is our skin’s way of telling us it is being damaged.”

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer found globally and having five or more sunburns in your life doubles your risk for melanoma.1 It’s key to remember that no sunscreen is the same, even if it is a high SPF.
“It’s important to remember that there’s no such thing as “light, base, or safe tan”.  An individual’s skin darkens or tans as result of protecting itself from harmful UV rays.  A tan is our skin’s way of telling us it is being damaged.” - Dr. Peter Jajou

What should you know when you choose your sunscreen?

Follow these guidelines when choosing your sunscreen to maximize your sun protection:

Choose Broad-Spectrum

Broad-spectrum means that the sunscreen protects against UVA and UVB rays. All sunscreens protect against UVB rays, which are the cause of sunburns. But UVA rays also contribute to skin cancer and premature aging. Products that are not broad spectrum must carry a warning that they only protect against sunburn, not skin cancer or skin aging.

Choose SPF of 30 or More

Approximately 90% of non-melanoma cancers are the result of exposure to UV radiation from the sun. The SPF number indicates the level of protection against UVB rays. The FDA requires any sunscreen with an SPF below 15 to carry a warning that it only protects against burns, not skin cancer. Consider these facts:
  • SPF 15 filters out 93% of UVB rays
  • SPF 30 filters out 97% of UVB rays
  • SPF 50 filters 98% of UVB rays

Sweat & Water-Resistance

Manufacturers cannot claim a sunscreen is waterproof because no product is fully waterproof. Instead, sunscreens can be water-resistant, meaning it lasts for 40 minutes, or very water-resistant, meaning it lasts for 80 minutes. The bottom line is you must reapply sunscreen often. All sunscreens are meant to be re-applied every two hours but when you are swimming or exercising, you should re-apply even more often.

Protect Your Skin

Understanding the effectiveness of your sunscreen is crucial for safeguarding your skin from the harmful effects of the sun. To master the art of proper sunscreen application, review the video below and explore our range of high-quality sunscreens by visiting our online store. Take charge of your skin health and embrace sun-safe practices today.

How To Correctly Apply Sunscreen

Featured Clinician-Recommended Sunscreens

EltaMD UV Physical SPF 41

For oil-free sun protection with just a touch of color, EltaMD's lightly tinted UV Physical is a healthy choice. This chemical-free mineral sunscreen has antioxidants to neutralize free radicals. Water-resistant UV Physical withstands water, humidity and perspiration.

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SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50

Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50 is a tinted, fluid sunscreen that leaves a radiant, even finish. It offers broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection for all skin types, including sensitive, while boosting skin's natural defenses to environmental stress using artemia salina, a plankton extract. This sunscreen is water resistant for up to 40 minutes. 1.7 fl oz / 50 mL

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