The past few days have unofficially marked the beginning of summer weather. Sunny, ninety-degree days inspire some of the population to turn on air conditioners and find relief from the heat while others fetch bathing suits and bask in the sun.
To many, summer means sunshine and tanning. Laying out in the sun with the latest novel or a good friend is a staple summer enjoyment. Though pleasant, spending time in the sun has its consequences. The FDA, as well as parents, grandparents, and friends, recommend sunscreen as a defense, but many ignore this advisory for the tempting thrill of a summer glow. Reconsideration may have advantages. Using sunscreen today is more beneficial than it has ever been. New FDA regulations in effect June 2012 require that sunscreens offer protection not only against burns, but now against the skin cancer.
In the past, sunscreen has protected against UVB but not UVA rays. UVB rays lead to typical first degree skin burns. However, UVB and UVA rays both contribute to skin damage and the development of skin cancer: an increasingly prevalent problem caused by sun exposure.
Now, anything labeled “broad spectrum” will protect against UVB and UVA rays for more complete sun defense. Products with a sun protection factor (SPF) below fifteen are marked with a warning label stating that the sunscreen does not protect against the development of skin cancer. Products with an SPF greater than fifty are not proved to be more effective at protecting skin and are now labeled as SPF fifty plus. Claims such as “water-proof” or “sweat-proof” can no longer be made because they are misleading; sunscreen washes off upon contact with water. Instead, the term “water-resistant” is being used and water-resistant sunscreens must be labeled with standard protection time.
Skin cancer is scary. It is reassuring that the federal government has taken measures to protect citizens against this threat, but people can take responsibility to further protect themselves. The FDA recommends limiting time in the sun, covering skin with clothing, and reapplying sunscreen every two hours. These are simple measures that may take away from the summer bronze everyone is aiming for, but in the long run, it may be worth it.
