July is UV Awareness Month. It is a great time to learn how to keep your skin safe from the sun.
What Is UV Light?
The sun gives off light that you can see and light that you cannot see. The invisible light is called ultraviolet (UV) light.
There are two kinds of UV light that can hurt your skin.
UVA rays
- Go deep into your skin.
- Can cause wrinkles and make your skin look older.
UVB rays
- Hurt the top layer of your skin.
- Are the main cause of sunburn.
Both UVA and UVB rays can damage your skin and increase your chance of getting skin cancer.
Why Is Sunscreen Important?
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. Millions of people are treated for it every year.
The good news is that you can help protect yourself. Wearing sunscreen every day can lower your risk of skin cancer.
How to Choose a Sunscreen
When buying sunscreen, look for these three things:
- SPF 30 or higher. SPF tells you how well the sunscreen helps prevent sunburn.
- Broad spectrum. This means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
- Water resistant. This is a good choice if you will be swimming or sweating.
Mineral and Chemical Sunscreens
There are two main types of sunscreen.
Chemical sunscreen
- Soaks into your skin.
- Absorbs UV rays before they can damage your skin.
- Usually rubs in without leaving a white color.
Mineral sunscreen
- Sits on top of your skin.
- Uses zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to block UV rays.
- Is a good choice for children and people with sensitive skin.
- May leave a white look on your skin, but newer products blend in better.
Both types help protect your skin. The best sunscreen is the one you will use every day.
Sunscreen and the Environment
Some chemical sunscreen ingredients may harm coral reefs and other sea life.
If you swim in the ocean, a mineral sunscreen is a good choice because it is better for marine life.
New Sunscreens
People in some countries have newer sunscreen ingredients that are not yet available in the United States.
The FDA reviewed one new sunscreen ingredient. It has been approved, making it the first new sunscreen ingredient added in the U.S. in more than 25 years.
How to Use Sunscreen
To get the best protection:
- Put sunscreen on about 15 minutes before going outside.
- Use enough to cover all of your skin.
- Do not forget your ears, neck, and the tops of your feet.
- Put more on every 2 hours.
- Reapply after swimming or sweating.
Sunscreen for Children
Babies younger than 6 months should stay out of direct sunlight.
Children older than 6 months can use mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
More Ways to Stay Safe in the Sun
Sunscreen works best when you also:
- Wear a wide brim hat.
- Wear sunglasses that block UV rays.
- Wear lightweight long sleeves and pants when possible.
- Stay in the shade, especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
- Avoid tanning beds.
Ask Your Pharmacist
Not sure which sunscreen is best for you or your family? Ask your pharmacist. They can help you choose the right sunscreen for your skin, your age, and your activities.
Protecting your skin today can help keep it healthy for years to come. Wear sunscreen, cover up, and enjoy the sunshine safely this summer!
