Last updated : Tuesday, July 21, 2009

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The 411 on SPF

Sunscreen labels can be overwhelming between the letters on the packaging (UVA and UVB), the various SPF numbers, and labels touting "long lasting", "water resistant", and "waterproof".Fortunately, Dr. David E. Bank, founder and director of the Center for Dermatology, Cosmetic and Laser Surgery and author of Beautiful Skin: Every Woman's Guide to Looking Her Best at Any Age, breaks down the confusing terms to help you read between the lines and find the most protective product that's right for your skin.

WATCH YOUR RAYS:

UVA RAYS (Ultraviolet- A): UVA are long and highly penetrable rays that can damage your skin even through glass windows.

UVB RAYS (Ultraviolet B): These short solar waves are hotter and stronger than UVA. Since UVB rays are more intense they are the main culprit behind sunburn and surface skin cancer.

THE BOTTOM LINE: It is imperative that you protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. Look for products labeled "broad spectrum" which indicates it shields against both. Look for following ingredients: Avobenzone, Helioplex, Mexoryl, zinc oxide, or titanium dioxide.

PICKING A SPF

SPF (Sun Protection Factor): SPF measures the length of time a product protects against skin reddening compared to how long the skin takes to redden without protection. For example, someone who would burn after 5 minutes in the sun would expect to burn after 50 minutes if protected by a sunscreen with SPF 10.

SPF 15: The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends at least SPF15, which blocks 93% of UVB.

SPF 30 and Higher: SPF's higher than 30 block 97% and are advisable for sun-sensitive  

THE BOTTOM LINE: Dr. Bank suggests using at least an SPF 15 even if you have a darker complexion. Since it take 30 minutes for sunscreen to absorb into the skin, remember to apply your sunscreen at least a half hour before being exposed to the sun.

OIL INTAKE

OIL-FREE: Oil-free sunscreen is non-comedegenic so it doesn't block pores. Dr. Bank suggests using it on your face or other acne prone areas such as your chest or back.

THE BOTTOM LINE: Whether you use an oil-based or oil-free sunscreen you will still get the same protection. Your own personal preference for consistency should be the deciding factor.

WATER PROOF

WATER PROOF: For a product to be waterproof according to the FDA's definition, it must maintain its SPF level for 80 minutes after water exposure.

WATER RESISTANT: A water resistant product maintains its SPF level for 40 minutes after water exposure.

Once you've decoded the label of your favorite sunscreen, be sure to check out one of our favorite labels by clicking here! For more great summer skin care tips, check out the Summer Skincare Secrets Series on FNCiMag.com.

Dr. David E. Bank, founder and director of The Center for Dermatology, Cosmetic, and Laser Surgery in Mount Kisco, is a prominent dermatologist with over 20 years of practice in the field of dermatology and cosmetic surgery. As one of the country's foremost healthcare professionals, Dr. Bank has been featured on leading network television shows including Fox & Friends, The Today Show, Good Morning America, The Early Show, and 20/20 as the go-to skincare expert discussing various topics ranging from skin cancer and treating skin ailments to segments on the industries newest technology and treatments. 

 

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