SPF refers to the ability of a sunscreen to block ultraviolet B (UVB) rays, which cause sunburns, but not UVA rays, which are more closely linked to deeper skin damage. Both UVA and UVB contribute to the risk of skin cancer.
As of December 2012, the FDA started enforcing new sunscreen regulations to help people get better protection from the sun's rays. I could not have been happier about the new regulations. I have been on a soapbox about this issue for years and am glad the FDA was finally holding companies to a higher standard. Here is the skinny on what the new regulations meant for SPF:
• Only SPF 15-50+: This is the range that can claim to cut the risks associated with sun exposure. The days of SPF 90 is over - the highest you will find is SPF 50+. The SPF rating is a measure of the time it would take you to sunburn if you were not wearing sunscreen as opposed to the time it would take with sunscreen on.One would like to think that an SPF of 30 is twice as good as an SPF of 15 and so on. But that is not a very reasonable way of thinking. An SPF of 15 blocks about 94% of UVB rays; an SPF 30 product blocks 97% of UVB rays; and an SPF 45 product blocks about 98% of rays. So anything over SPF 50 you are paying more money for 1% more. That is hardly worth that added fee.
• The use of more effective broad-spectrum sunscreens: Only formulations with proportionate UVA and UVB coverage can claim to perform as a broad-spectrum sunscreen.
• No more waterproof sunscreens claims: Even the best sunscreens are only water-resistant at best, so always reapply after getting wet.
Having sunscreens being held to higher standards is a breath of fresh air, it was no surprise that most SPF products have already not passed the new regulations. Stay protected from head to toe by adding a trusted brand of sunscreen products to your broad-spectrum regimen sunscreen. Remember, the sun is out 365 days a year. By wearing a UV wristband is the perfect way to remind you to be diligent with sun protection.
One habit that will haunt you for the rest of your life is to think you are not exposed.Think you are not out in the sun? Think again. On an average day, do you:
• Drive to work around 9 a.m.?
• Leave the house or office to run errands or go out for lunch?
• Drive home around 5 p.m.?
If you are like us and answered "yes" to any of these questions, you are getting at least 20 minutes of sun every day, and that does not include sitting near a window or spending extra time outdoors. Your best bet is to assume you will get some exposure, and make sunscreen a daily habit - rain or shine. No matter the season!
Source by Mary Ann Hagans