1. Katv Dermatology. PA
SUNSCREENS
It's okay to have fiin in the sun as long as you protect yourself. How do you do it?
Watch the clock. Stay out of the sun from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., when the sun's rays are
strongest.
Avoid reflective surfaces (swimming pool, snow, lake surfaces). These reflective
surfaces can reflect up to 85% of the sun's rays. (Reflected light can bum your skin even
faster).
Seek the shade. Stay in the shade whenever you can.
Choose SPF 30 and REAPPLY. Use a sunscreen with a SPF of 30 or higher. Make
sure you slather on more sunscreen (even the waterproof kind) every 2 hours.
Avoid tanning booths. Tanning parlors emit a small amount of UVB and a large amount
UVA. Both rays will damage your skin and contribute to skin cancers. Tanning booth
use substantially increases your risk of melanoma, a deadly form of skin cancer.
Cover up. Wear long pants and shirts with sleeves. If the sim can't get to you, it can't
hurt your skin!
Wear a hat and don't forget sunglasses. Choose a hat with a wide (4-inch) brim to
protect your face and neck.
What to look for in you next bottle of sunscreen:
It's a lot easier to choose (and use) a sunscreen if you know what to look for. Keep your eyes open for
these words on your next bottle of sunscreen:
SPF (Sun Protection Factor) 30 or higher
Use a sunscreen that has at least an SPF 30. Higher SPF is not harmful, but not really helpful.
PABA or PABA-free
PABA (short for para-aminobenzoic acid) is used in many sunscreens. It works well, but some
people are allergic to it. If you're to allergic to PABA, use a PABA-free sunscreen instead.
Broad spectrum
The sun shoots off two different rays that affect you skin: UVA and UVB. UVA rays make your
skin wrinkle and may cause skin cancer. UVB rays bum and also causes sun damage. Check your
sunscreen label to ensure that it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
Waterproof
Waterproof sunscreens aren't just important when you're swimming and windsurfing-they also
stay on longer when you sweat. So if you're active, in or out of the water, a waterproof product
may be right for you.
Lotion, sprays, cream, or gel.
You should use what you like best, so choose the sunscreen that fits well for your skin. You may
want to use a cream on your face, since gels can sting around the eyes. If you have acne, try a
light texture sunscreen first, and look for a product that is oil iree and non-comedogenic. A spray
or gel is useful for areas with hair.
21310 Provincial Blvd • Katy, Texas 77450 Phone (281)599^)404 Fax (281)599-1655