By Claire Witschger, PharmD, RPh
Pharmacy Resident, Blanchard Valley Health System

With the summer months in full swing, school is out and vacations have started to take place. As we enjoy the warmer weather, it is important to remember the importance of sun safety. While the sun and ultraviolet (UV) radiation can be beneficial for vitamin D synthesis and can increase mood, it is also responsible for numerous damaging effects on the human skin. Some of the effects of unprotected sun exposure include sunburn, early skin aging and skin cancer. With these risks, The American Academy of Dermatology recommends sunscreen and sun safety practices to reduce the harmful effects of UV exposure.

The two different types of UV rays are UVA and UVB. It is estimated that up to 95% of the ultraviolet rays that reach the earth are UVA; this radiation leads to skin aging, darkening of skin pigmentation and skin cancer. The other 5% of ultraviolet radiation is caused by UVB radiation; this type of radiation leads to sunburns, inflammation and skin cancer. Ways to avoid excessive sun exposure include avoiding midday sun when possible (between 10:00 a.m. and 4:-- p.m.); wearing light-colored, protective clothing to cover exposed skin; using window films that block UV rays for cars and homes; and wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen.

Selecting an appropriate sunscreen can be just as important as wearing it when outside. The sun protection factor (SPF) is a measure of the level of protection against UV rays. The higher the SPF value, the higher degree of protection from UV rays the person wearing it receives. It is recommended that SPF 15 be worn daily for protection. SPF 15 is commonly found in everyday cosmetic products. 

For individuals planning on performing outdoor work, playing sports or recreational activities, it is recommended that an SPF of 30 or higher be used. When selecting a sunscreen product, it is also important to determine what activity could be done while wearing the sunscreen. Water- resistant sunscreen maintains an appropriate level of SPF after 40 to 80 minutes in water or excessive sweat. 

Correct use of sunscreen is also essential in order to receive the highest benefit from using SPF-containing products. It is recommended that the average sized adult use one ounce (30 ml) or two tablespoons of sunscreen to adequately cover and protect the skin. Sunscreen needs to be applied 15 to 30 minutes before sun exposure to allow the sunscreen and SPF to form a protective film on the skin. Sunscreen should be reapplied no matter the level of SPF provided. Sunscreen that is water resistant should be reapplied after 40 to 80 minutes of swimming or sweating. Reapplication of sunscreen not used in water activities should be reapplied after 120 minutes. 

Sunscreens can be used on everyone, but the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends avoiding sunscreen on children less than six months old. Sunscreen products can be selected based on price, application method and patient preference. If you have any further questions, reach out to your local pharmacist or doctor.