by Jennifer Rothacker - May. 23, 2010 12:00 AM
McClatchy Newspapers
As the heat and sun settle in for summer, the calls to protect your skin from damaging rays intensify. But with so many choices of sunscreens, sunglasses, hats and even sun-protective clothing, it might seem easier to hide out in a dark closet.
Go ahead, break out the bathing suit. We have the skin-care basics from two experts in the field: doctors
Nancy Thomas, associate professor at the University of North Carolina's Department of Dermatology Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, and Kelly Nelson, assistant professor at Duke University Medical Center's Department of Dermatology.
Who needs protection?
Everybody, both doctors agree. The sun can damage your skin throughout your life, from immediate harm, such as sunburns, to longer-term effects, such as age spots and cancer. Although dark-skinned people are slightly less sensitive to the sun, they, too, can fall victim to its damaging rays. A tan means skin damage. Use a spray-on tanner to get your glow.
UVB, UVA, SPF?
UVB rays are ultraviolet rays that penetrate the upper layers of the skin. They cause the more immediate sunburn effect.
UVA rays penetrate deeper and contribute to aging the skin.
SPF is a measuring system for how long a product protects the skin against the sun.
What to use
Look for the words "Broad-spectrum sunscreen" or "protects against UVA and UVB rays." From there, you basically have two types of sunscreens to choose from: chemical-based and physical blockers.
Chemical-based sunscreens are plentiful, easy to put on and effective. There is concern about parabens, preservatives that some scientists feel may have estrogen-mimicking properties. For small children, it may be prudent to seek out paraben-free sunscreens. There are organic sunscreens, but reviews of those aren't overly positive.
Physical blockers include the ingredients zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which physically reflect the sun off your face. They have no problematic chemicals, but they can be more bulky to deal with.
SPF choices
The FDA recommends a 15 SPF or higher, but both doctors say to go with at least a 30, if not a 45. Higher is better, because most people put their sunscreen on too thinly, which makes a 30 SPF turn into something like a 10 SPF.
If you're going to be active and sweat a lot, or plan to be in the water, get a waterproof version.
Rules for using
The longtime rule still stands: about 2 ounces, or the equivalent of a shot glass. (Few of us actually accomplish this.)
If you're going to be active and get sweaty or wet, reapply about every two hours.
Put your sunscreen on about 20 minutes before going outside.
