If you saw the movie, “There’s Something About Mary,” you will recall the famous tanner, Magda. Her devotion to the sun made us all think about leather, tinfoil, and sunscreen.
Let’s face it, sunscreen has come a long way since the Coppertone Baby. We have more choices and it can be a little confusing when it comes to finding the ideal sunscreen.
The Food and Drug Administration recently issued new rules that should help. These rules will not take effect for another year. In the meantime, the staff at Flawless wants to help you make it through the summer! Here is what you need to know:
UVA – These are longer invisible solar rays that can burn the skin and cause cancer. These rays penetrate the skin deeper than UVB.
UVB – These are shorter invisible solar rays that are the main cause of skin reddening and sunburn. These rays play a key role in the development of skin cancer.
UVC – There are the most dangerous type of solar rays but cannot penetrate the earth’s protective ozone layer.
SPF – This is currently a rating that stands for sun protection against UVB rays only. Everyone needs to know that UVA rays represent roughly 95% of the solar radiation reaching the earth’s surface and do not figure into the current SPF rating/labeling.
Broad Spectrum Label – This is currently a labeling phrase that is meant to indicate protection against UVA, but there is no numerical rating for effectiveness. This is going to change next year.
Broad Spectrum Label in 2012-2013 – Products with this label will provide equal protection against UVA and UVB rays with SPF of 15 or higher. Sunscreens with this labeling will be the only products that can claim protection against skin cancer and premature skin aging.
So, what do you do in the meantime? The recommendation is to choose sunscreens that are ideally labeled “Broad Spectrum” with SPF ratings of 30 to 50. There is no evidence that anything higher than 50 is any better. Lastly, be sure to apply AND reapply your sunscreen every two hours.
Be Sure To Share This Blog With Your Friends And Stay Flawless! Heather Badal
Take The Next Step
Patient safety and comfort are our top priorities. Call Flawless Med Spa at (505) 888-1185 to schedule a complimentary consultation. We are pleased to serve patients throughout the Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, and Santa Fe areas.
