May 26, 2005

Ready for summer? Learn the As and Bs of sunscreen first

Those first warm days that hint at summer are tempting. You want to be outside all day, soaking up the sun and getting a colorful glow. Summer is indeed almost here, which means it’s time to start taking extra precautions against the sun’s harmful effects—particularly UVA and UVB rays.

As part of May’s National Skin Cancer Awareness Month, the experts at Johns Hopkins want everyone to understand the difference between UVA and UVB rays, as well as how to choose the right kind of sunscreen and use it correctly. Whether you’re fair-skinned and freckly or dark-skinned and not prone to burning easily, here’s what you need to know:

- UVB rays are more intense during the summer and cause tans and sunburns.

- UVA rays are the same intensity year-round and, unlike UVB rays, penetrate deep into the skin’s layers. For maximum sun protection, your sunscreen should block both UVB and UVA rays.

- Always look for an SPF (sun protection factor) against UVB rays of 15 or higher.

- Read the product label to check whether your sunscreen is formulated to block UVA rays. Look for terms such as “full spectrum,” “broad spectrum” and “UVA protection.” Also look for titanium dioxide or zinc dioxide in the ingredient list. Better yet, make sure the ingredients include the chemical blocker Parsol 1789 (avobenzone).

- Avoid direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Seek the shade; wear a wide-brimmed hat, long sleeves and long pants. And don’t forget sunglasses—UVB rays can sometimes cause cataracts.

- Apply sunscreen 15-30 minutes prior to sun exposure—even on cloudy days. (Remember your ears, hands, toes and lips.) Reapply regularly.

- Don’t worry about a vitamin D deficiency. You get enough UV light through incidental exposure, like walking to your car, for your body to manufacture adequate vitamin D. So there’s no excuse for skimping on sunscreen. Rub it on liberally and enjoy those hot, sizzling months smartly!

For more information, visit www.hopkinsafter50.com.