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The ability of a sunscreen to block ultraviolet radiation is expressed as an SPF (sun protection factor). This factor represents the ratio of the amount of radiation required to induce redness through a thin layer of sunscreen (2 mg/cm2), compared to unprotected skin. The actual amount of sun protection most people are getting with sunscreen does not reach the rated SPF because most people apply too thin a layer of sunscreen.
There are two primary components of sunscreens: chemical and physical agents. Most broad spectrum sunscreens (which block UVA and UVB radiation) contain chemical and physical sunscreen components.
It is recommended that you select a sunscreen with one or more of the following four components because of their ability to absorb UVA radiation:
- Chemical
- Avobenzone (Parsol 1789)
- Ecamsule (Mexoryl)
- Physical
- Zinc oxide
- Titanium dioxide
The chemical ingredients listed are often found in combination with other UVB blocking agents to produce broad spectrum UV protection.
Daily application of a facial moisturizer with an SPF of 15 or greater is recommended. For outdoor activities, an SPF of 30 or greater is recommended.
1 ounce or 30 mL (two tablespoons) of sunscreen is required to cover all body areas. If you are applying less than that amount, you are not getting the degree of sun protection indicated by the SPF designation.
A dual application of sunscreen with the first application 20 minutes before and the second application 30 minutes after the start of sun exposure is recommended.
List of sunscreens suggested by Insight Dermatology:
- For the Body: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Sunblock SPF 70
- For the Face: Anthelios XL SPF 50+ Fluide Extreme
- For Sensitive Skin:
- Replenix CF, SPF 45 (Topix)
- DCL UVA/UVB chemfree superblock SPF 30
- Fallene Cotz SPF 58 Water Resistant UVB/UVA Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin
- For Dry Skin:
- DML Daily Facial Moisturizer, SPF 25
- Neutrogena healthy defense SPF 45 daily moisturizer
- Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer SPF 30
- For Oily Skin:
- Glycolix Elite Sunscreen SPF 30
- Dermalogica Oil Free Matte Block SPF 20
- Powder Cover-up Sunscreen:
- Colorscience Sunforgettable SPF 30 powder (tinted)
- Innovative Skincare Clinical Sunscreen Powder SPF 20
- Sweat-resistant sunscreens
- Jack Black Sun Guard Oil-Free Very Water/Sweat Resistant SPF 30+
- Anthelios SPF 60 XL Face Stick
- For the Lips:
- Blistex Clear Advance Lip Balm, SPF 30
- Natural Ice Medicated Sport Lip Balm, SPF 30
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