Are You Reading Your Sunscreen Label Correctly?

In 2012, the FDA finally sanctioned stricter regulations for the labeling and sales of sunscreens. This new standard on sunscreens helps consumers to understand how to better protect themselves. For example, no sunscreen can now be called “waterproof.” Terming a sunscreen as “waterproof” or “sweatproof” can mislead shoppers to believe that they can wear it in the water indefinitely and still be protected. Now, under the new FDA labeling regulations, sunscreen is labelled as “water resistant,” and must also state how long it is water resistant for either 40 or 80 minutes. Companies are also not permitted to label sunscreens as “Sunblocks”, as nothing can block the harmful rays completely, they can only protect against them.

Have you noticed that sunscreens are no longer labelled with outrageous numbers such as SPF 80? Again, the FDA has cracked down on the misconception on the labeling, and companies can no longer list any SPF higher than 50+. Most skin care experts will suggest using a sunscreen SPF 15 or higher. The new labelling will tell consumers when sunscreen is considered Broad-Spectrum. UVB are the rays that burn us- U V “Burning”, and UVA rays are the rays that age us- U V “Aging”. Only sunscreens over an SPF of 15 can claim to be Broad-Spectrum and protect against both of these rays. Any sunscreen with an SPF 2-14 can only protect against UVB rays and must be labelled with the warning “Skin Cancer/Skin Aging Alert: Spending time in the sun increases your risk of skin cancer and early skin aging. This product has been shown only to help prevent sunburn, not skin cancer or early skin aging.” Thus, to protect yourself against the agony of burning, the agony of premature aging, and the agony of skin cancer- please by all means protect yourself with Broad Spectrum Sunscreens!

To protect yourself properly the key is to reapply every 2 hours using a zinc-based sunscreen. There are two types of active ingredients used in sunscreens- physical & chemical. The only two physical sunscreen ingredients are zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Make sure to look for these active ingredients when purchasing your sunscreen. Sometimes you will also hear these being referred to as “mineral sunscreens.” They provide the best protection by physically deterring the sun’s harmful rays from the skin. Some of the chemical sunscreens can cause sensitivities, so we prefer for you to use your physical-based sunscreens! All active ingredients will be labelled clearly on the bottle of sunscreen itself so it is easy to determine all of the ingredients that are used to protect you.

Living in the Low Country it is impossible to avoid the abundant pleasures of outdoor activities. Since we cannot avoid sun exposure without sacrificing “fun in the sun”, just remember these simple rules. Choose a Water-Resistant sunscreen if playing in water or sweating. Choose a Broad Spectrum SPF 15 or higher. Reapply every two hours. Seek shade when possible. And try to find a sunscreen with a Zinc Oxide base.

If you have trouble finding the perfect sunscreen for you and your family, ask your dermatologist or other trusted skincare expert. Ask for samples if available because the best sunscreen to use is the one that you will actually apply!