Skin cancer is a big and growing problem in the United States. Over 5 million cases are diagnosed nationwide every year. 1 out of every 5 Americans will get some type of skin cancer by age 70.
With it being so common, it's clear we need good ways to prevent this. Using sunscreen is our first defense against skin cancer.
How Sunscreen Shields Against UV Harm
To understand how sunscreen helps protect us, we first need to look at how skin cancer happens. Cancerous skin spots are mainly caused by ultraviolet (UV) sunlight hitting unprotected skin. There are two UV types:
UVB Rays: These go into the top skin layer and primarily cause sunburns.
UVA Rays: These go deeper and can cause long-term skin damage over time.
Both UVA and UVB rays have been linked to skin cancer forming. Sunscreen creates a protective barrier on the skin's surface, acting as a shield to block the sun's harmful UV rays from penetrating your skin.
Using an SPF 15 or higher sunscreen every day lowers the risk of one skin cancer type, squamous cell carcinoma, by around 40%. To find out whether you have photosensitive skin or any specific skin allergies consulting with a dermatologist or even taking a skin allergy test can make things a whole lot clearer. Given the strong proof of sunscreen's protection, it's no surprise the Skin Cancer Foundation recommends using broad-spectrum sunscreen daily as an important anti-aging and anti-cancer step.
Picking an Effective Sunscreen
With a myriad of options on the market, how do you pick an effective sunscreen? There are two key factors to consider:
1. SPF
SPF (sun protection factor) indicates the level of UVB protection provided. Higher SPF values correspond to greater blocking of UVB rays. For adequate protection, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a water-resistant sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30.
While no sunscreen can block 100% of UV rays, proper application of SPF 30 sunscreen filters out 97% of UVB radiation. Increasing beyond SPF 30 offers diminishing returns, with SPF 50 blocking just 1% more UVB than SPF 30.
2. Broad Spectrum Protection
In addition to UVB coverage indicated by SPF, sunscreens must provide broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB radiation to be fully effective.
Look for sunscreens labeled 'broad spectrum' to ensure that you are shielded from the full spectrum of the sun's harmful rays. Broad spectrum coverage is critical for reducing skin cancer and photoaging risks.
It's also best to use sunscreens with active ingredients like zinc oxide or avobenzone. Avoid oxybenzone, which harms coral reefs. Check expiration dates and store sunscreen properly so it doesn't lose strength. Reapply at least every 2 hours and after swimming or sweating.
Apply Sunscreen Correctly
The protection offered by sunscreen is only realized with proper application. Be sure to apply enough sunscreen and reapply frequently for full effectiveness:
Amount: Apply approximately 1 ounce, or enough to fill a shot glass, covering all exposed skin. Many people apply too little, which reduces protection.
Timing: Apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before sun exposure to allow it to fully bind to your skin. Reapply after swimming or sweating heavily.
Frequency: Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours when outdoors, even on cloudy days. UVA rays penetrate clouds and glass.
Having 5 or more sunburns doubles your risk for melanoma. Proper sunscreen application techniques reduce the likelihood of burns occurring.
Sunscreen Tips for Kids
Kids need sun protection the most since exposure early in life raises lifetime skin cancer risk. Follow these tips for safe, effective sunscreen use on kids:
- Choose creams not sprays to avoid breathing in chemicals. Go for fragrance-free, tear-free formulas.
- Apply 30 minutes before sun exposure and reapply often when playing, swimming, or sweating. Use waterproof or water-resistant sunscreen when swimming.
- Cover sensitive areas like ears, noses, lips, and the tops of feet which often get missed. Also, apply under swimming suits for full protection.
- Set a good example by wearing sunscreen daily yourself and making it a habitual family routine.
- Pair sunscreen with shade, UV-blocking clothes, and hats. Seek shade whenever possible to avoid peak sun hours.
Sunscreen and Photoaging
While sunscreen's role in skin cancer prevention is paramount, it also helps minimize signs of premature aging from sun damage. Photoaging from UV exposure causes wrinkles, age spots, loose skin, and rough texture.
People who use sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher daily show 24% less skin aging than those who do not use sunscreen regularly. With diligent use, sunscreen can slow down the appearance of aging for a more youthful skin tone and texture.
A Multi-Tiered Approach for Optimal Protection
While crucial, sunscreen alone is not sufficient. For full sun protection, dermatologists recommend a multi-tiered approach:
Seek Shade: Avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours between 10 AM to 2 PM.
Cover Up: Wear protective clothing like hats, sunglasses, and tightly woven fabrics.
Use Sunscreen: Apply broad spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen to all exposed skin.
Avoid Tanning: Prevent intentional UV exposure from tanning beds, which raises skin cancer risks.
Adopting sun-safe habits like regular sunscreen use, in addition to other protective measures, offers the best defense against sun damage for healthy and youthful skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions about using sunscreen? Here are answers to some commonly asked questions:
Do all skin tones need sunscreen?
Yes. Darker skin has more protective melanin, but no skin color is immune to sun damage. Everyone should wear broad spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily.
What is the difference between chemical and mineral sunscreens?
Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays, while mineral sunscreens physically block them. Both provide adequate protection when used correctly. Choose based on skin sensitivity.
How do I apply sunscreen correctly on my face?
Apply a nickel-sized amount evenly before makeup. Use a mineral sunscreen or sunscreen-makeup hybrid product if prone to breakouts. Avoid the eye area.
When is it safe for babies to start wearing sunscreen?
The AAD recommends starting sunscreen use at 6 months of age. Seek shade and protective clothing before then. Use mineral sunscreen and avoid chemical absorbers to minimize irritation.
Is sunscreen safe? Does it cause cancer?
Yes, sunscreen is safe and does not cause cancer! Extensive testing has shown active ingredients like avobenzone and oxybenzone are non-carcinogenic when used properly. Of greater concern is sun damage from UV radiation, which sunscreen prevents.
Bottom Line
With skin cancer striking 1 in 5 Americans, adopting sunscreen as a daily habit is an essential strategy for prevention. Look for a broad spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen and apply it adequately before sun exposure. Combine with other protective measures for optimal defense against sunburns, skin cancer, and photoaging. A few extra minutes of proper sunscreen use can make all the difference in maintaining healthy, youthful skin for life.