What Type of Sunscreen?

Okay, now that I’m convinced to wear sunscreen, what type of sunscreen should I use? This is Dr. Steven Andrew Davis, Speaking of Health.

The first rule is to use a sunscreen that you like. If the one you buy feels too thick or runny or stings or smells bad to you, you won’t use it.

As far as the SPF or sun protection factor number is concerned, a general recommendation published by New York’s Skin Cancer Foundation is a broad spectrum UVB/UVA blocker with an SPF of 15 or greater. Today many cosmetics and moisturizers contain sunscreens of SPF of 15 or higher and they are fine for every day use. For people who get more serious sun exposure, such as outdoor activities, those in lower latitudes or higher altitudes, SPFs of 25 to 30 are considered minimal. But even though you’re using a sunscreen with a higher number, you have to be sure that it stays on, and that’s where getting one that is water-resistant or water-proof can make a big difference.

And finally, people have different sensitivities to sunlight. People with so-called Type I skin virtually always burn and never tan. They should probably use a sunscreen with an SPF higher than 30. The farther down the sensitivity level you go, say to those people who always tan and never burn, the lower you can drop the SPF if you want to. But don’t try to get too cute with finessing the numbers way down. If you’re out there trying to get a tan, you’re busy trying to undo what sunscreens are all about. For a copy of this article, please visit our website, www.speakingofhealth.com. I’m Dr. Steven Andrew Davis for CBS News.

Ref: Skin Cancer Foundation Journal, vol. XIV, 1996, pg.25