As a dermatologist, I often see firsthand the consequences of inadequate sun protection, ranging from premature aging to serious skin conditions like melanoma. The sun, while essential for life and a natural source of vitamin D, can be extremely damaging to the skin if we’re not careful. Understanding sun care, SPF and after-sun treatment is key to healthy skin year-round, especially during the summer months.
Understanding SPF and Choosing the Right Sunscreen
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, and it measures how well a sunscreen protects the skin from UVB rays – the type of ultraviolet radiation that causes sunburn and can contribute to skin cancer. For example, SPF 30 filters out about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 filters about 98%. Although the difference may seem minor, every percentage counts when it comes to long-term skin health.
It’s important to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which protects against both UVA (which ages the skin) and UVB rays. Both UVA and UVB rays can damage the skin and potentially lead to the development of skin cancer. I personally recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 for daily use, and SPF 50-100 if you plan on spending a longer time outdoors, including near water or sand, which can reflect and intensify rays.
Look for water-resistant formulas if you’re swimming or sweating, but remember that no sunscreen is truly “waterproof.” Re-apply every two hours or more, especially if you’re in the water or toweling off.
For sensitive or acne-prone skin, mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide can be a good option, as they are less likely to cause irritation or clog your pores. These physical blockers sit on top of the skin and reflect the sun’s rays rather than absorbing them.
One trick I find to be helpful on days that I will be spending more time outside is to apply a quality mineral sunscreen cream base in the morning and then use a spray sunscreen to reapply every 2 hours throughout the day. It makes sun protection easy, convenient and effective all day long.
Practical Sun Safety Tips
As well as sunscreen tips, there are several other pointers I give patients:
• Seek shaded areas from 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun’s rays are strongest.
• Wear protective clothing: Long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses offer excellent protection. Some brands offer stylish, breathable clothing with built-in SPF (often called “UPF” or Ultraviolet Protective Factor for clothing).
• Be aware of medications: Certain drugs, including some antibiotics and acne treatments, can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.
And even on cloudy days, up to 80% of rays can get through the clouds. Daily sunscreen application should be a regular part of your skincare routine.
After-Sun Care: What to Do If You Get Burned
Even if we try to avoid it, sunburn can still happen. If you find red, painful or blistered skin after time in the sun, it’s crucial to start after-sun care to minimize damage.
• Cool the skin: Apply a cool, damp cloth to the affected area or take a cool bath to reduce heat and inflammation.
• Hydrate inside and out: Drink plenty of water to combat dehydration and apply moisturizers with aloe vera or soy to soothe the skin.
• Avoid further sun exposure until your skin has healed completely.
• Do not pop blisters: They serve as a natural barrier to infection. If a blister does break, clean it gently and apply a petroleum jelly or antibiotic ointment.
If your sunburn is severe – characterized by large blisters, fever, chills, or nausea – it’s important to seek medical attention.
Long-Term Consequences of Sun Damage
Chronic sun exposure can lead to a range of skin concerns, including:
• Photoaging: Wrinkles, sunspots and leathery skin texture result from repeated sun exposure over time.
• Actinic keratoses: Rough, scaly patches that can be precancerous.
• Skin cancer: The most common type of cancer in the U.S., including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. Melanoma, though less common, is the most dangerous and can be fatal if not caught early.
Routine skin checks – both self-examinations and annual visits to a dermatologist – are critical for early detection of concerning lesions or skin cancer spots. You can contact our dermatology office at Tamarack Health Ashland Medical Center by visiting tamarackhealth.org to schedule a visit.
Jesalyn Tate, MD, is a Dermatologist at Tamarack Health Ashland Medical Center.
