 | Joanna Hughes, RN has worked at Via Christi Hospital Pittsburg for 9 years. She is Outreach Services Manager coordinating health fairs, Lunch and Learn monthly luncheons, outreach events, and assists in some educational opportunities to area businesses and events. She is involved with Crawford County Community Coalition and Live Well Crawford County. |
Health & Wellness
2012-06-01 08:35:34
Is sunblock necessary?
Q: Why do I need to use sunscreen if I like a nice tan?
A: Sunscreen helps prevent skin cancer. According to American Cancer Society, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their life time. Nearly two million people will be diagnosed with skin cancer each year, more than breast, prostate, lung and colon cancer combined. Tanned skin is damaged skin. UVA and UVB rays cause wrinkles to occur and damage to the cell’s DNA which causes more wrinkles and in time can lead to skin cancers.
Q: How do you use sunscreen properly?
A: Read label directions for best application. Most brands recommend 20 – 30 minutes prior to going out in the sun. Use it every day as the sun reaches us through windows, car windows, and even on cloudy days. Ideally one ounce, about a palm full, should be applied generously to anywhere bare skin is –faces, ears, hands, arms, neck, top of feet…anywhere! Re-apply at least every two hours and even more if sweating, swimming, or towel drying. FDA guidelines are that none can state sweat proof, water proof, or sun block as products do need to be reapplied.
Q: What does SPF mean and if it’s a higher number, is it better?
A: SPF is sun protection factor. Many groups, including American Academy Dermatology, recommend SPF of at least 30. Higher numbers are available but offer very little more protection. SPF 30 sunscreens filter out about 97% of sun, SPF 50 about 98% and SPF 100 about 99%. Reapplying sunscreen regularly gives you the best protection.
Q: Does sunscreen expire?
A: Sunscreen should have an expiration date. Most are effective two to three years, but if stored for a while it is best to shake well to remix.
Q: How do I protect myself from UV rays?
A: The American Cancer Society promotes “Slip! Slop! Slap! Wrap!”
• Slip on a shirt.
• Slop on sunscreen.
• Slap on a hat.
• Wrap on sunglasses to protect
the eyes and sensitive skin
around them.
