Dr. Becky's Article
SUN PROTECTION
July 23, 2008
Most people apply sunscreen before a day at the beach or swimming pool, but many people do not think to do it on a daily basis. However, the majority of lifetime sun exposure occurs during multiple brief exposures, such as walking outside to your car, so most people need daily sun protection.
Sunscreens have been shown to reduce the incidence of skin cancer and may even allow for repair of damaged skin. Sunscreen may also reduce premature aging of the skin. Application of sunscreen should be a part of everybody’s morning routine, just like brushing your teeth.
Ideally, sunscreen should have an SPF of at least 30 and should allow for protection against UVA and UVB radiation. For the best protection, sunscreen should be applied 15-30 minutes before going outside. It should be reapplied every 2 hours if you are swimming or are exposed to water. It is best to avoid prolonged sun exposure during the peak sunlight hours,
Sun exposure is cumulative throughout your life, and sun damage usually begins in childhood. Studies have shown that regular use of sunscreen in children under the age of 18 may reduce the incidence of basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers by 78%. All children should wear sunscreen daily. Tanning beds also deliver UV radiation and are just as dangerous as being in the sun. There is no such thing as a “healthy” tan! If you must have bronze skin, the only safe way to do it is with sunless self-tanning lotions or spray on tans.