Ban the burn!

How do sunscreen lotions work? Basically, they protect the skin from the sun's harmful Ultra-Violet B (UVB) rays. UVB rays are generally considered to be the most dangerous for sunburns, prematurely aging skin, and potential skin cancer. (Melanoma, a form of skin cancer, is currently the third most prevalent cancer in the United States.)

What is SPF? All sunscreen lotions carry a Sun Protection Factor (SPF rating). This indicates the level of protection each product provides users from the UVB rays. By using higher-rated products (carrying higher SPF numbers), sunbathers and outdoor enthusiasts can safely remain longer in the sun.

Basically, the math works out this way. Let's suppose you can usually stay out in the sun for 15 minutes before your skin begins to burn. If you use an SPF 15 sunscreen product, then you ought to be safe in the sun for 225 minutes. If you use an SPF 30, then you should be OK for 450 minutes.

You need to know your own skin's susceptibility to sunburn and how long you are generally burn-free when you have used no sunscreen protection. Take that time frame, and multiply it by the SPF factor of the product you select to determine your window of opportunity for safe sunning.

Fair-skinned people who tend to freckle and burn quickly in the sun will probably want to choose a higher SPF than those with darker skin. Most doctors recommend at least an SPF 15 for nearly everyone.

If you are not sure, you would be wise to consult a physician. Also, if you are taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, you will want to read labels carefully. Many medicines can make you more vulnerable to sunburn.

Even if you use a waterproof sunscreen, you will need to reapply it after swimming or sweating. This does not extend the duration of protection, but it does guard your skin during the safe period, and it will ensure more consistent skin coverage.

Countless product choices are available. Visit the store, and you will find aisles of sunscreen products (even in the winter). Prices range from $5-$10 for brand-name lotions to nearly $200 for designer skin-protection creams.

Many people prefer PABA-free products. PABA stands for Para-Amino Benzoic Acid, which is a suspected carcinogen. Even so, many adult sunscreen lotions contain it. (Isn't that ironic? Your sunscreen might actually cause cancer!)

Sunscreens formulated specifically for babies and children are PABA-free. They are generally gentler, and they should not sting eyes. Baby sunblock is available in SPF 15, SPF 30, and even SPF 45. Adults may certainly use these products as well.

Learn more about this author, Linda Ann Nickerson.
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