Protecting Skin from UV Radiation

Sunblocks

Chemical sunblocks absorb UV radiation and convert light energy to heat. Physical sunblocks (Zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) reflect UV radiation away from your skin.

All sunblocks have a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) rating. The SPF rating indicates how long a sunscreen remains effective on the skin. A user can determine the how long their sunblock will be effective by multiplying the SPF factor by the length of time it takes for him or her to suffer a burn without sunscreen.

For instance, if you normally develop a sunburn in 10 minutes without wearing a sunscreen, a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 will protect you for 150 minutes (10 minutes multiplied by the SPF of 15). Although sunscreen use helps minimize sun damage, no sunscreen completely blocks the all wavelengths of UV light. Wearing sun protective clothing and minimizing your sun exposure from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. will also help protect your skin from overexposure and minimize sun damage.

If you have had SCC or want to use sunblock as a preventative measure against sun damage, a general recommendation would be to use a broad spectrum sunblock with UVA and UVB protection with an SPF rating of at least 30. Sunblock should be applied daily as part of your morning routine. All sunblocks should be applied 15-20 minutes before sun exposure to allow a protective film to develop, then reapplied after water contact or sweating. Some sunblocks can lose effectiveness after two hours, so reapply frequently.

Water resistant sunblocks are available for active individuals or those involved in sports. It’s important to check the label to ensure they say “water-resistant” or “very water-resistant.”

• Water-Resistant sunblock maintains the SPF level after 40 minutes of water immersion

• Very Water-Resistant sunblock maintains the SPF level after 80 minutes of water immersion

Sun Protective Clothing

Clothing is a simple sun protection tool since it provides a physical barrier from the sun that doesn't wash or wear off and can protect the skin from both UVA and UVB radiation. Long-sleeved shirts and pants, hats with broad brims and sunglasses are all effective forms of sun protective clothing.

The ideal sun-protective fabrics are lightweight, comfortable, and protect against exposure even when wet. Several companies in the U.S. manufacture clothing that is specifically designed to be UV-protective. Their products include outerwear, pants, shirts, and hats for all sizes and shapes including children.

Sun Protective Clothing Additives: SunGuard Detergent

SunGuard detergent is an UV blocking additive that can be added to your laundry to change everyday clothing into sun protective clothing with a SPF 30. SunGuard is odorless and colorless and last for approximately 30 washes before losing its effectiveness.

For more information see http://www.ritsunguard.com/

Sun avoidance

Avoiding sunshine can help protect you from developing SCC.

• Limit your time in the sun between 10 a.m. and 3