How to Choose the Perfect Sun Protection Hat

Choosing a good sun hat is very important. Not only do 1/3 of all skin cancers appear on the face but the biggest cause of premature aging is cumulative damage of the sun from infancy on up. So let’s get started finding the perfect sun hat for you.

All of our hats are chosen with sun protection in mind, but not all hats are created equal.

Let’s start with 5 basic questions to narrow down your search:

1. What activity will you be doing? Will there be wind? Do you need good peripheral vision? Will it be hot?
2. Do you want maximum sun protection or is good sun protection just fine?
3. How wide of a brim is comfortable for you?
4. How important is fashion to you or is functionality all you need?
5. Is your hair short? Thinning? Bald or shaved? Do you dye your hair?

1.What activity do you plan to do? Is it gardening, sailing, hiking, travel or a round of golf? Whatever the activity, it creates conditions we need to be concerned about.

Will you be in the wind? With a wide brim hat, a chin strap is very important for keeping your sun hat in place. Remember the old sitcom The Flying Nun? A wide brim hat will pick up the wind like it has wings of its own. Additionally, a chin strap will help keep your hat in place when bending over or dropping your chin is part of your activity, like in gardening.

Peripheral vision is an important factor for both safety and playing various sports like tennis or volleyball. This will be a personal decision for you. Consider both the size of the brim and, if a neck drape is involved, how far does the drape wrap around the face. I am a beach volleyball player and for me a 3″ brim is the widest I can use and still see high flying balls as well as the other players.

Will you be doing an activity that generates body heat? You may want to wear a sun visor for total head aeration or choose a sun hat with mesh on the side of the crown or a hat that made of a fast drying fabric that allows evaporative cooling. One trick for cooling your head in a hot, dry climate is to wet the hat and then let the evaporation cool your head.

Maximum sun protection vs good sun protection?

What is a maximum sun protection hat? We feel a maximum protection hat has a UPF rating of 50 and a hat brim that is 4 inches wide or greater. But there’s more. The brim needs to be angled downward. This downward sloping brim allows you to be protected for more hours of the day.

How does this work? At high noon, when the sun’s rays are directly overhead, even a 3″ brim hat may provide maximum sun protection for your head. But when the sun is either ascending or descending the sun’s rays can sneak right under your hat and strike your face or neck. At daybreak or sunset, when the suns ray’s are virtually horizontal, a wide brim hat may provide no protection at all.

Adventure sun hatIf you plan to be spending time outdoors when the sun is close to either horizon, you may want to think about our more unique designs such as the Kalahari hat, Adventure Hat or Chic Sheik that drop a vertical protective block of fabric between you and the sun.

Good sun protection can be had with a brim less than 4 inches wide or a brim that is more horizon from the head.

How wide of a brim are you comfortable with?

We all have different feelings about this one. Some people can handle a wide brim with no problem while others find it very distracting. Bottom line is that the wider the brim of the hat the more surface area there is to block the sun. But, of almost equal importance, is the angle of the brim. A wide brim hat that comes straight out from the head is good but when the sun is not straight overhead the rays can come under the brim and strike the face and neck. A brim that is angled downward goes a long way in giving you more hours of protection. As a basic rule of thumb, for maximum sun protection choose a downward angled 4″ brim sun hat … and, if you are comfortable, choosing a brim wider than 4″ is even better. If you are not sure how wide a brim you would like you may want to consider a 3 1/2 brim.

Now, how important is fashion to you?

As you can see, some of the sun protection inventors have come up with novel hat designs to protect you from the sun but, alas they would not be called high fashion … except possibly on another planet. Most of these unique hats were designed to solve special sun protection needs such as full face protection, additional neck protection or increased ventilation.

Some of our wide brim hats are the height of fashion creating a dramatic flare or ultra feminine silhouette. As we all know, fashion is in the eyes of the beholder so look for a hat that accentuates your attributes.

5. Next, let’s take a look at your hair.

Do you have thinning hair, or are you balding or shave your head? If yes, mesh panels on the crown of the hat may provide extra air flow to keep your head cooler but it will also let UV radiation sneak through and reach your scalp. With maximum sun protection in mind, it is better to leave the mesh panels for those with thick tresses. For those of you who do have thick hair, choosing a hat with mesh panels will help your head stay cooler in the heat.

Do you have short hair? If yes, we need to be extra concerned about your neck. A sun visor or a brim less than 4″ leaves your neck open to sun damage. Typically a full brim hat will be your best choice.

Hair can get dry, cracked and brittle from too much sun. Dyed hair is especially susceptible to problems under UV radiation so, to protect your hair, I would suggest staying away from visor hats that leave your hair open to the sun light.

Just a few parting suggestions for picking the perfect hat for you:

Hat size: A hat that is too big is better than one that is too small. A tight hat may give you a headache and then you won’t want to wear it. Many of our hats are adjustable, but in all cases, please be sure to measure your head to ensure a perfect fit. For those of you with lots of little grey cells we have hats for big heads. And, for those of you with smaller heads, please know that you may request stick-on sizing tape to help you fit your hat.

Cotz sunscreenReflective rays: Even the widest brim hat will not be able to stop rays reflecting up from the ground, a near by car or any other reflective surface so wearing sunscreen is important for maximum sun protection. Rule of thumb: Sun protective fabric is always better than sunscreen in protecting you from the harmful rays of the sun but alas not always practical. On areas where you can’t cover up with fabric use sunscreen. Maximum sun protection is achieved by a combination of sun protective clothing and sunscreen.

What You Eat Can Protect Your Skin from the Sun

By now you probably think you’ve heard all of the health reasons there are for eating your vegetables. But recently, researchers from Harvard University have announced that lutein — a potent antioxidant found in such dark green, leafy vegetables as spinach and kale — may protect the skin from sun damage.

“Lutein has been widely recognized for its eye health benefits for several years. But, our data is the first of its kind to suggest that lutein may have the potential to act as a preventative agent against UVB-induced skin cancer,” said Salvador Gonzalez, M.D., Ph.D., leader of the Harvard research team. “In addition, these data suggest that lutein protects the skin against damage caused by exposure to UVB light, further validating our position that lutein is a critical component to overall skin health.”

Lutein (LOO-teen) is a yellow pigment (the yellow is covered up by chlorophyll in green leaves) found predominantly in vegetables. It is also present in the eyes and skin of the human body. In women, lutein is found in the breasts and cervix. As an antioxidant, lutein protects the eyes from the damaging effects of aging. Lutein also acts as a light filter, protecting against the sun’s harmful rays.

UVA and UVB rays are two types of harmful rays found in sunlight. UVA rays contribute to wrinkling the skin, as well as to the development of skin cancer. UVB rays are the ones that are the primary cause of sunburn and skin cancer.

Good sunscreens block both UVA and UVB rays and are critical to skin health. But, you can do even more to protect your skin and eyes when you’re outside.

Safety tips to keep top of mind:

Wear UV-blocking sunglasses. Over time, exposure to ultraviolet light can cause cataracts and increase your risk of macular degeneration, a disease that causes irreversible blindness.

If you’re a parent, protect your children’s skin. Research indicates that one or more severe, blistering sunburns in childhood or adolescence can double the risk of skin cancer later in life.

Check the expiration date on your sunscreen. Sunscreen without an expiration date has a shelf life of no more than three years.

Eat a healthy diet comprised of green leafy vegetables. Consumption of 6 milligrams of lutein per day (approximately one-third cup of cooked spinach) has been linked to a reduced risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. Vitamins and dietary supplements formulated with purified lutein provide another option for adding this nutrient to a daily diet.

It’s important to note that when lutein is consumed in foods or vitamins, it deposits in various tissues in the body — the eyes, the skin, fat tissue and so on. Therefore, it may also be beneficial to apply lutein directly to the surface of your skin. Several skin care products containing lutein are now available.

Skin Damage Caused by Sunlight

Some sunlight is important because our skin uses it to produce vitamin D, which helps to build and maintain strong bones. Too much sun is harmful and can damage your skin.

The sun gives out ultraviolet (UV) radiation that is made up of three types of rays: UVA, UVB and UVC. UVC rays from the sun can’t get through the ozone layer but UVA and UVB rays can, and these rays have been linked to skin damage.

Short-term skin damage

Sun tan

A tan is actually a sign that your skin has been damaged and is trying to protect itself. UV radiation stimulates your skin to produce more pigment (colour), which protects against damage. Your tan will fade, but the damage to your skin remains.

Sunburn

Short-term overexposure to the sun can cause your skin to burn, usually making it red, hot and painful. You can soothe your burnt skin with calamine lotion or aftersun lotions. If your sunburn is severe, you may need medical treatment.

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke

This is when your body becomes overheated after overexposure to the sun or by getting sunburn. You may have symptoms including vomiting, headaches and fever. If you think you have heat stroke, get to a cool place as soon as possible and drink plenty of water. If your temperature is higher than 39ºC (you can measure your temperature using an oral thermometer), your skin has become dry and flushed or you feel very unwell, you should see a doctor immediately.

Long-term skin damage

Ageing and infection

Ageing of your skin is a result of the UVA rays penetrating it, causing wrinkles and sagging. UV rays can also cause damage to the eyes. It has been suggested that too much sun exposure may damage your immune system, increasing your risk of infection.
Skin cancer

Although the exact cause of skin cancer isn’t known, some things make it more likely. Your risk of skin cancer increases if you’re exposed to UV rays because of spending a lot of time in the sun.

Preventing sun damage

To protect your skin, you should stay out of the sun between 11am and 3pm, when the sun’s UV rays are strongest. Look for shady areas such as under trees, and use umbrellas or canopies.

Watch the UV index

The UV index describes the strength of the sun’s UV radiation. It’s usually shown as a number in a triangle on a weather map. The numbers range from one to 11+ and the higher the number, the stronger the UV radiation. If the UV index is higher than three you will need protection when you go outside.

In many countries, the UV index is reported alongside the weather forecast in newspapers, on TV and on the radio.
You can protect your skin by wearing long-sleeved tops and trousers. Choose materials that have a close weave as these block out the most UV rays. Wet clothing stretches and lets more UV radiation through to your skin.

Wearing a wide-brimmed hat can halve the amount of UV radiation reaching your face.

Sunglasses help to protect your eyes and eyelids. Wraparound sunglasses will also protect the skin around your eyes. You should choose a pair of sunglasses that has the following labels:

* 100 percent UV protection
* UV 400 – this means it protects from both UVA and UVB rays

If you’re buying a pair of sunglasses in Europe, check that they also carry the European Standard CE mark and the British Standard (BE EN 1836:1997).

Wear sunscreen

Always use “broad spectrum” sunscreen. This means that it protects your skin against UVA and UVB rays. Make sure it has a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher. The SPF tells you how good the sunscreen is at filtering out the UVB rays. There isn’t a measure of protection against UVA rays. Sunscreen can’t give you complete protection since some UV rays will always get through, but you will get more than 90 percent protection from UVB rays with SPF 15.

Re-apply sunscreen every two hours or more often if you go swimming, or sweat a lot. Water reflects the sun’s rays so you need to apply sunscreen before swimming.

Cloud doesn’t stop the sun’s UV rays getting through so you should protect yourself even if it’s cloudy. Haze (from thin clouds or mist) can even increase your UV radiation exposure because the rays are scattered.

Check moles

You should check your moles regularly for changes that may indicate skin cancer. Most changes are harmless, but you should see your GP if you notice:

* growth of an existing mole – especially over 7mm (a quarter of an inch) in diameter
* a mole with an uneven or ragged edge
* a mole of varying shades of colour
* a mole with an inflamed or red edge
* a mole that bleeds, oozes or crusts
* a mole that feels different, painful or itches

Don’t use sunbeds

Sunbeds mimic the effect of the sun and give out artificial UVA and UVB radiation. Exposure to artificial UV radiation can also damage your skin. Sunbeds have been linked to an increased risk of skin cancer as well as eye conditions.

An artificial tan from a sunbed doesn’t protect your skin against sunburn on holiday; it’s similar to using a sunscreen with SPF 2 to 3.

There are no regulations relating to the use of sunbeds, but the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that you shouldn’t use sunbeds if you:

* are under 18
* have sunburn, burn easily or had frequent sunburn as a child
* have a lot of moles
* tend to freckle
* have pre-cancerous or cancerous skin lesions
* are wearing cosmetic products (these may make you more sensitive to UV radiation)
* are taking medication (you should seek medical advice to check whether your medication will make you particularly sensitive to UV radiation)

Winter sun

You can’t feel UV rays. The warmth you feel on your skin is actually caused by the sun’s infrared radiation. So just because you can’t feel the hot rays of the sun, it doesn’t mean you won’t get sunburnt.

The amount of UV radiation is generally lower during the winter but snow reflects most of the sun’s rays, so you can still get sunburnt. If you’re high up in the mountains, there is less atmosphere to block out the UV rays, so make sure you use sunscreen.
Protecting children from the sun

Young skin is sensitive and very easily damaged by the sun. Getting sunburnt as a child is known to increase the risk of developing skin cancer as an adult.

Keep your baby in complete shade. Pop-up shelters are a good way to protect children from the sun on the beach or in the garden. Canopies and parasols for prams and buggies protect children when you’re out and about.

Dress your child in loose-fitting clothes that cover up their arms and legs. A hat with a brim at the front and a cloth flap that covers the neck provides good sun protection. Sunglasses will help to protect your child’s eyes.

Use water-resistant sunscreen with SPF 20 or higher on all exposed areas of your child’s skin and apply generously every couple of hours. If you take your child swimming, re-apply the sunscreen after towel drying.

Fake tans

Fake tanning lotions are a popular alternative to sunbathing and sun beds. The tanning lotion reacts with your skin and produces a brown pigment. Fake tan needs to be re-applied regularly if you want to maintain the tan, because your outer skin cells are shed naturally as your skin grows.

Some fake tanning lotions contain sun protection but the SPF is usually very low, so you should also wear sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher when you’re out in the sun.

Although fake tanning lotions aren’t known to be dangerous, they can sometimes trigger an allergic reaction. Always test the lotion on a small area of your skin first to see if you have a reaction.

Skin Care Science

The skin is the body’s outer protective cover. It is made up of 3 layers – epidermis, dermis and fat. The most superficial layer is called the epidermis. The living cells produced by the lower levels of the epidermis are slowly pushed to the surface. Cells, when they reach the surface, have become harder and drier and contain keratin – a substance which helps protect us from heat and cold. The epidermis also contains specialist cells called melanocytes. These produce the dark skin pigment melanin, which gives our skin some protection from burning

MOLES AND FRECKLES

Moles occur where melanocytes clump together. They are usually oval or round pigmented spots, with a smooth border and regular colour. They may be hard or raised and clump together.

Freckles are flat and usually occur on sun exposed areas. Moles and freckles are very common in fair skinned people; 20 – 40 are the average number of moles for an adult. Most appear around puberty, in later life many may disappear.

ON THE BRIGHT SIDE

Exposure to sunlight allows our bodies to produce vitamin D. For most white skinned people, 10-15 minutes exposure of face, forearms and hands to our Northern Ireland sunlight is enough to maintain vitamin D levels. (The closer to the equator fair skinned people go, the shorter the exposure time required). However people with dark or heavily pigmented skins, living in northern latitudes may benefit from more moderate sun exposure to ensure maintenance of adequate vitamin D levels. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation is bad for all skin types.

HOW SKIN PROTECTS ITSELF

The sun’s UV radiation on our skin causes it to try to protect itself by producing melanin. This production of melanin in response to trauma from UV radiation appears as a ‘tan’. The skin also defends itself through thickening of the outer epidermis – keratin layer. Now we can understand the origins of the word ‘tan’ – thickened and darkened skin – leather like. A ’suntan’ indicates sun damage.

ADVERSE EFFECTS OF UV RADIATION ON THE SKIN

Short term: skin exposed to UV radiation can develop freckles and rashes. Short-term excessive exposure to UV radiation causes sunburn – reddening, pain and in severe cases blistering and even second degree burns.
Take care not to burn. Sun increases your risk of skin cancer.

Exessive sun exposure resulting in sunburn – three weeks on. (left)

Long term: over time UV radiation exposure, whether or not associated with sunburn, accelerates skin ageing making it look dry, wrinkled, loose and dull and causing pigment changes commonly known as ‘age spots’. It can also cause changes in the skin cells, which may lead to skin cancer.

Excessive sun exposure is the main cause of most types of skin cancer.

These two photographs are of two 71 year old women. They look very similar, except that one has spent a great deal of her life exposed to the sun, whereas the other has covered up.

SKIN MOST AT RISK

Some skins are more at risk from the effects of UV radiation than others. Check yours out:

MOST RISK

•     Fair skin that never tans – always burns.
•     Fair skin that burns before tanning.
•     Skin that always tans and rarely burns
•     Dark and heavily pigmented skin which would only burn in exceptional circumstances.

LEAST RISK

Those with pale skin, fair or red hair need to take special care.

Risks and Benefits of Sun Exposure

Exposing skin to sunlight presents both health risks and health benefits. Sunlight is the major source of vitamin D-producing Ultraviolet B radiation, which has a wide range of positive health effects, including possibly inhibiting the growth of some cancers. On the other hand, long-term sunlight exposure is known to be associated with the development of skin cancer, skin aging, immune suppression and eye diseases such as cataracts. Sun exposure has also been associated with the timing of melatonin synthesis and reduced risk of seasonal affective disorder. A number of public health organizations state that there needs to be a balance between having the risks of having too much and the risks of having too little sunlight. There is a general consensus that sunburn should always be avoided.

However, not all physicians agree with the assertion that there is an optimal level of sun exposure, with some arguing that it is better to minimize sun exposure at all times and to obtain vitamin D from other sources.

Serum levels of 25(OH) D3 are below the recommended levels for a large portion of the general adult population and in most minorities, indicating that Vitamin D deficiency is a common problem in the United States.
Contents

Benefits

According to the U.S. National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements, most people in the United States can meet their vitamin D needs through exposure to sunlight, even though a large portion have serum 25(OH)D3 levels below recommendations. Ultraviolet (UV) B radiation with a wavelength of 290-315 nanometers penetrates uncovered skin and converts cutaneous 7-dehydrocholesterol to previtamin D3, which in turn becomes vitamin D3. Season, geographic latitude, time of day, cloud cover, smog, skin melanin content, and sunscreen are among the factors that affect UV radiation exposure and vitamin D synthesis. The UV energy above 42 degrees north latitude (a line approximately between the northern border of California and Boston) is insufficient for cutaneous vitamin D synthesis from November through February; in far northern latitudes, this reduced intensity lasts for up to 6 months. In the United States, latitudes below 34 degrees north (a line between Los Angeles and Columbia, South Carolina) allow for cutaneous production of vitamin D throughout the year.

Complete cloud cover reduces UV energy by 50%; shade (including that produced by severe pollution) reduces it by 60%. UVB radiation does not penetrate glass, so exposure to sunshine indoors through a window does not produce vitamin D. Sunscreens with a sun protection factor of 8 or more appear to block vitamin D-producing UV rays, although in practice people generally do not apply sufficient amounts, cover all sun-exposed skin, or reapply sunscreen regularly. Skin likely synthesizes some vitamin D even when it is protected by sunscreen as typically applied.

The factors that affect UV radiation exposure and research to date on the amount of sun exposure needed to maintain adequate vitamin D levels make it difficult to provide general guidelines. It has been suggested by some vitamin D researchers, for example, that approximately 5-30 minutes of sun exposure between 10 AM and 3 PM at least twice a week to the face, arms, legs, or back without sunscreen usually lead to sufficient vitamin D synthesis and that the moderate use of commercial tanning beds that emit 2%-6% UVB radiation is also effective. Individuals with limited sun exposure need to include good sources of vitamin D in their diet or take a supplement.

Risks

Despite the importance of the sun to vitamin D synthesis, it is prudent to limit exposure of skin to sunlight and UV radiation from tanning beds. According to the National Toxicology Program Report on Carcinogens from the Department of Health and Human Services, broad-spectrum UV radiation is a carcinogen thought to contribute to most of the estimated 1.5 million skin cancers and the 8,000 deaths due to metastatic melanoma that occur annually in the United States Lifetime cumulative UV damage to skin is also largely responsible for some age-associated dryness and other cosmetic changes.

It is not known whether a desirable level of regular sun exposure exists that imposes no (or minimal) risk of skin cancer over time. The American Academy of Dermatology advises that photoprotective measures be taken, including the use of sunscreen, whenever one is exposed to the sun.

Is there a safe level of sun exposure?

According to a recent study submitted by the University of Ottawa to the Department of Health and Human Services in Washington, D.C., there is not enough information to determine a safe level of sun exposure at this time.

There is no consensus on which component of Ultraviolet Radiation (UVA or UVB or UVC) actually is carcinogenic, and the composition of Ultraviolet Radiation changes throughout the day: At high noon, Ultraviolet Radiation reaching ground level is 95% UVA and 5% UVB, while before 10am and after 2pm this percentage changes over time to 99% UVA and 1% UVB. This is caused by the the reflection of UVB rays back into space due to sun angle as the earth slowly rotates on its axis. The rate of change is faster the farther the position moves away from the equator (ie more north or south) 99% UVA / 1% UVB sunlight is known as “bronzing” rays, as it provides the deepest colour tanning.

On average over a day, 98.7% of the ultraviolet radiation that reaches the Earth’s surface is UVA. UVC is almost completely absorbed by the ozone layer and does not penetrate the atmosphere in any appreciable quantities. As a result, only the combination (UVA, UVB, and UVC) known as “Ultraviolet Radiation” is listed as a carcinogen, the components are only “likely to become” known carcinogens. Solar radiation, also known as “sunlight” is also listed as a carcinogen because it contains Ultraviolet Radiation. This means also that the UV Index is a measure of total Ultraviolet Radiation, and not just Vitamin D-producing UVB.

Sunlight is therefore the only listed carcinogen that is known to have health benefits, in the form of helping the human body to make Vitamin D. This makes sunlight unique on the list of known carcinogens.

Homo sapiens evolved near the equator, and human skin color is a visible indication of direct sun exposure due to the pigmentation level. With new evidence of Vitamin D receptors in all body tissues, experts advise having a balance between Vitamin D from sun exposure and Vitamin D from supplements. The only way to quantify adequate levels of Vitamin D is with a serum 25(OH) D3 test.

How To Choose The Best SPF (Sun Protection Factor)

You know that you should use some form of sunscreen every day, right? Even during those colder winter month, sunscreen is vital to your skin’s health. But, how do you choose from all of those SPFs on the market? Is one sunscreen better than another? How do you know which one to select? This article will help to clear up that SPF confusion.

What Is SPF?

Quite literally, SPF stands for “Sun Protection Factor.” In every instance, the higher the SPF number, the more protection you will receive against the sun’s UVB rays. While this information might be old news to you, did you know that the SPF number also indicates the amount of time that you can safely stay out in the sun?

For example, if you happen to be a person with sun sensitive skin, a SPF of 15 will allow you to safely remain outside for 15 times longer than they normally would. This logic can be applied to any SPF number out there.

The Higher the Better?

So, now the question is: what number should you be looking for? Well, most skincare experts tend to recommend a SPF that’s between 15-30. Any SPF number that’s higher than 30 generally doesn’t provide much more protection.

However, if you have extremely fair skin, you may want to seek an SPF or 15-30. This tiny bit of extra SPF may protect those with fair skin better than a lower number would. Even if you have dark skin, you should still wear sunscreen. Dark skin can burn just as easily as light skin can.

Powder, Liquid, or Spray?

Is there a difference between all of the powders, liquids, and sprays on the market? Is one type of sunscreen better than another? Generally, all types of sunscreen have been designed for mass use. Thus, the most important thing is to look at that SPF number.

However, you should also read sunscreen ingredients. If you use a sunscreen that’s integrated into another product (moisturizer or foundation), be careful about the ingredients included in that product. Some of these products may actually harm your skin.

Best Sunscreens

The best way to choose a sunscreen is to select one that is made from organic ingredients. These sunscreens do not contain a large amount of toxic chemicals. Instead, they are often composed of natural ingredients.

If you happen to have sensitive skin, choose a sunscreen that won’t make your skin break out. Likewise, if you intend to swim or sweat while wearing sunscreen, make sure to select a waterproof version.

Enjoy the Sun

The sun can be a welcomed thing. Sunshine feels great on skin, it gives us a boost of Vitamin D when we need it, and it has the ability to invoke positive feelings. In short, don’t avoid the sun completely.

Still, make sure that you wear a proper SPF every single time you venture outside – no matter what the season might be. This way, you can enjoy the sun without worrying about your skin.

SPF, UVB and UVA Protection Explained

Try this quiz:

• Is SPF 45 sunscreen three times stronger than SPF 15 sunscreen? Does it last three times longer?
• Do sunscreens provide better UVA protection than UVB protection?
• What works better, sunscreens or sunblocks?
• Do “broad-spectrum” sunscreens protect against all UV rays?

If you’re not certain of the answers, join the club. Recent research shows that people who buy sunscreens aren’t sure exactly what protection they offer, and are cloudy about the technical terms on their labels. A survey of 235 women who bought sunscreen found they did not know the difference between UVA and UVB or between SPF and UVA. They mistakenly believed that higher SPF ratings meant stronger UV protection, not longer protection, and the concept of “broad-spectrum” protection confused them further.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is urging sunscreen manufacturers to clarify the claims made on their products so that the public can make more informed purchases. In the meantime, we’d like to do our part. Here, from medical experts on The Skin Cancer Foundation’s Photobiology Committee, is a concise primer on the ABC’s of sunscreen protection:

UVA (ultraviolet-A): long- wave solar rays of 320-400 nanometers (billionths of a meter). Although less likely than UVB to cause sunburn, UVA penetrates the skin more deeply, and is considered the chief culprit behind wrinkling, leathering, and other aspects of “photoaging.” The latest studies show that UVA not only increases UVB ’s cancer-causing effects, but may directly cause some skin cancers, including melanomas.

UVB (ultraviolet-B): short-wave solar rays of 290-320 nanometers. More potent than UVA in producing sunburn, these rays are considered the main cause of basal and squamous cell carcinomas as well as a significant cause of melanoma.

Sunblocks and sunscreens: Sunscreens chemically absorb UV rays, sunblocks physically deflect them. Sunscreen has long blocked UVB effectively, but until recently provided less UVA protection. New ingredients such as octylcrylene and the benzophenones have improved sunscreen’s defenses against shorter UVA rays, and the revolutionary chemical avobenzone (Parsol 1789) works against all UVA wavelengths.

Sunblocks have also markedly improved. New preparations such as micronized titanium dioxide are less conspicuous on the skin and offer substantial protection against both UVA and UVB.

SPF (sun protection factor): measures the length of time a product protects against skin reddening from UVB, compared to how long the skin takes to redden without protection. If it takes 20 minutes without protection to begin reddening, using an SPF 15 sunscreen theoretically prevents reddening 15 times longer — about 5 hours. (Actually, it may take up to 24 hours after sun exposure for redness to become visible.) To maintain the SPF, reapply sunscreen every two hours and right after swimming.

The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends SPF’s of at least 15, which block 93 percent of UVB. While SPF’s higher than 30 block only 4 percent more UVB, they may be advisable for sun-sensitive individuals, skin cancer patients, and people at high risk of developing skin cancer. They also allow some margin for error if too little sunscreen is applied.

While SPF is the universal measurement of UVB protection, no comparable standard exists for UVA. Scientists worldwide are working to develop a standardized testing and certification method to measure UVA protection.

Broad-spectrum protection: The phrase indicates that a product shields against UVA as well as UVB. It does not guarantee protection against all UVA wavelengths, however. Most broad-spectrum sunscreens and sunblocks with an SPF of 15 or higher do a good job against UVB and short UVA rays; if they also contain avobenzone, zinc oxide, or titanium dioxide, they should be effective against the entire UVA spectrum.

Even with the ideal sunscreen, some UV rays can get through to your skin and cause damage. The Skin Cancer Foundation considers sunscreen one part of a comprehensive sun protection program, along with sun-protective clothing, sunglasses, shade, and sun avoidance from 10A.M. to 4 PM.

What is Sun Protection?

Sun protection is simply guarding a body from the adverse effects of sunlight. Aside from the hazards of heat, the sun poses the danger of sunburn, which can permanently damage the skin and cause skin cancer, precancerous changes in the skin, as well as premature wrinkling and signs of aging. Exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun is a known risk factor for the development of both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers.

How is sunburn best prevented?

The best ways to avoid sunburn are to:

• limit time in the sun, especially between peak sunlight hours of 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.;
• wear protective clothing, including
• a broad-brimmed hat,
• a shirt with sleeves that cover the arms, and
• a long skirt or pants with long legs; and
• use a protective sunscreen to minimize the penetration of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays.

What is sunscreen?

Sunscreen is any substance or material that protects the skin from UV radiation. Sunscreens are available in the forms of topical lotion, cream, ointment, gel, or spray that can be applied to the skin; a salve or stick that can be applied to the lips, nose, and eyelids; a moistener in towelettes that can be rubbed against the skin; sunglasses that protect the eyes; certain types of sun-protection clothing; and film screen that can be affixed to the windows of a car, room, or office.

What is meant by SPF?

SPF, an abbreviation for sun-protection factor, is a number such as 15, 30, or 50 that indicates the degree of sunburn protection provided by sunscreens. SPF is related to the total amount of sun exposure rather than simply the length of sun exposure. It is a common mistake to assume that the duration of effectiveness of a sunscreen can be calculated simply by multiplying the SPF by the length of time it takes for him or her to suffer a burn without sunscreen, because the amount of sun exposure a person receives is dependent upon more than just the length of time spent in the sun. The amount of sun exposure depends upon a number of factors including the length of exposure, time of day, geographic location, and weather conditions.

A common mistake is applying too little sunscreen, which can drastically reduce the effective SPF of the product. About 1 ounce (5-6 teaspoons) of sunscreen is recommended to cover the entire body. Further, sunscreen must be reapplied every two hours when staying outdoors for a prolonged period of time. Sunscreen should also be applied at least 30 minutes before going outdoors.

People with sensitive skin who burn quickly and must spend a lot of time outdoors should always apply a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more.

Badger SPF 30 Sunblock for Face and Body

This week is sunscreen week at Beauty and Fashion Tech. I recently tried three of the top sunscreens in The Sunscreen Database from the Environmental Working Group. Because I have areas of melasma and hyperpigmentation, I have taken great interest in the products that were found to be highly effective by providing full spectrum protection. Today, I cover the number two sunscreen for safety and effectiveness in the database from the Badger company.

Badger SPF 30 for Face and Body has an impressive 20.5% of Micronized Zinc Oxide for full spectrum protection. The sun is not going to cut through this stuff much, if at all! A Mixture of natural oils and other natural ingredients allow it to also be water resistant for up to 40 minutes. If you want to be in the sun with maximum full spectrum protection, this sunscreen is an excellent choice.

One of my main motivations in trying some of the products near the top of the database was whether their high levels of physical blockers would leave traces of white on the skin. I found that Badger SPF 30 initially goes on with a tint of white, but that it absorbs fairly quickly. It definitely does not show with a hint of makeup over it. I also found that its water resistance was very good. I wore the product in the pool for about 45 minutes with no issues of burning or reactivating my melasma.

I personally liked the Badger Sunblock, but there are a few things about it that should be taken into consideration if you are considering it as a sunscreen:

First, it is pretty heavy on the oils, which is part of why it is so water resistant. In fact, I could still feel the product on my face after spending time in the pool.  As a result, I found that I felt a bit too oily with it on at times if I was not using it for its water resistant properties. However, it was perfect for swimming or sweating while working in the yard and is my new first choice for those activities.  I am also guessing that when I start getting drier skin in the fall, the Badger Sunscreen will be one that I will reach for.  If you have dry skin, this sunscreen might be perfect for you. If you have oily skin, you might want to try something with less oils or use this one only when swimming or otherwise need water resistence .

Second, it is scented with a floral aroma. It smells the most like lavender to me, which is one of the ingredients. I don’t mind the scent, but if you want an unscented product, this is not for you.

Badger also makes some really neat other products. I love, love, love their lip balm! I also really like their Badger Balm. I will be reviewing those in the near future.

Solar Rx Sunblock SPF 30+ by Keys

Now contains 18.5% zinc oxide (previous formula contained 15.5% zinc). Broad Spectrum UVB, UVA,& UVC Chemical-Free Protection – Ranked the #1 Cosmetic/UVA protecting sunblock by Consumer Reports Magazine!

Solar Rx is an everyday moisturizing cosmetic sunblock for the face, neck and hands. Solar Rx is not designed to be used for going to the beach, sun bathing, sports or water activities. The moisturizing properties and cosmetically clear sunblock make it ideal for everyday use as a foundation for makeup or alone. Solar Rx was designed to offer the maximum physical protection from UVA and SPF 30 for UVB burning rays without using a chemical sunscreen. As a cosmetic UV protection, it goes on clear with no heavy oily feeling or white cast. Solar Rx can be applied once a day for under makeup with minimal direct sun exposure. For direct sun exposure, we recommend reapplying at least every two hours on the face neck and hands. Tropical and high intensity sun conditions require even more frequent application. UV index ratings of 8 and above for average skin can require application as much as every 15 minutes as tested using a UV meter. This is not a product for sun bathing, extreme hot weather sports or swimming.

Keys Solar Rx is featured on the Environmental Working Group Skin Deep Report as the safest sunscreen on the market. Keys Solar Rx was featured as the most effective non-waterproof category sunblock for UVA and UVB in the Consumer Reports July 2007 issue. It is rare to find a product that is both safe to use and effective.

Keys Solar Rx carries a UVB (UV Burning) rating of SPF 30+ and a UVA (UV Aging) of four stars using the EU rating system. It is important to note that 90% of all visible skin aging comes from UVA. Be very careful of sunscreens with high SPF numbers that do not rate their UVA protection. High SPF rated chemical sunscreens will prevent burning, but often do little to provide UVA protection.

Solar Rx is both moisturizer and sunblock. It combines the healing soothing properties of our Luminos Moisturizer and adds a 18.5% concentration of uncoated nano-zinc oxide to provide a physical UVA and UVB blocking to protect against UV triggered Melanoma and Skin Cancer. Our nano-zinc oxide (ZnO) is uncoated to provide healing therapies associated with zinc oxide. The uncoated zinc has also proven to be anti-bacterial and antimicrobial and can reduce redness, rosacea, age spots and melasma. Solar Rx carries a EWG Skin Deep Rating of 0 (0 to 10 scale where 0 is best).

”As a Melanoma survivor, I developed Solar Rx to protect people with sensitive skin from UVA and UVB radiation. We use no chemical sunscreens, only pure uncoated zinc oxide in a natural lotion base. Solar Rx is for those who want to avoid the extreme aging effects of UVA and UVB on a daily basis.” Wendy Steele, Keys CEO and Founder

Contains: 18.5% nano zinc-oxide (uncoated), 10% shea butter, avocado oil, carrot seed oil, black cumin oil, essential oil blend, purified water, vegetable glycerin, USP kosher vegetable wax (from palm), rosemary extract. Organic content > 80%. Note: Keep at cool or room temperatures, product may separate if overheated.

Available in 2 Sizes: 100 ml (3.4 oz) Airless Pump & 0.5 oz (15ml) sample size ($4.49)
*Scented with a Light solvent-free Grapefruit & Orange Essential Oil Blend*Safe for Vegans*
ULTRA SHEER – NO WHITE-TINT * NO TITANIUM DIOXIDE *

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