The following is a list of commonly suggested recommendations by dermatologists to help minimize excessive sun exposure and the risk of associated skin cancer development. The American Academy of Dermatology and American Cancer Society have come up with certain recommendations to follow. Remember that every sun tan that you receive induces a costly skin damaging event. Over several decades, these effects become cumulative - resulting in skin cancer formation, wrinkles, pigment abnormalities, easy bruising and........ yes even acne-like changes of the skin. You can "Fry now and Pay later" or maybe try to follow a more skin conscious lifestyle. Let's help you get started on a safe sun program by following some simple rules as listed below.
 

1. Minimize sun exposure between the hours of 10 AM and 4 PM. 

This is the time when the sun is at its highest level in the sky. Take shade, and think about rescheduling that jog or tennis match either early in the day or after work, especially in the summer months.

1a. Don't use Tanning Beds.

These can give you 15 times the exposure to dangerous UVA and UVB rays, which can promote melanoma development. Tanning Bed use is one reason that we are seeing an increase in melanoma development in younger women. In addition, tanning beds enhance the the rate that your skin ages, specifically nducing wrinkle formation. Consider the use of self tanners instead. They are safer.

2.Use a sunscreen with at least an Sun Protection Factor of 45 or higher. 

A 45 SPF sunscreen gives you about 93% protection from the sun and a SPF  of 30 gives you 97% protection. If you are involved in an outdoor activity where you are sweating or in the pool-use a clear gel base sunscreen for this will not sweat off as easy. Sunscreens of this type should say "sweat resistant" or "water resistant". Lotions and cream based sunscreens are fine for everyday use but don't rely on them for recreational purposes. It is also important to remember to apply the sunscreen 15 to 20 minutes before you venture outdoors. Look for sunscreeens that contain Helioplex™ or Mexoryl™.

Question. How much does the average T Shirt give you in terms of SPF Factor? (See below for answer-bottom of page)

3. Apply your sunscreen daily.

It is very important to apply your sunscreen each day. Men can apply a moisturizing sunscreen such as TiSilc^® 45, Neutrogena Ultra Sheer 45 or Anthelios 50 (LaRoche-EPosey) after shaving. Women should either use a makeup with a sunscreen or a moisturizing sunscreen.

4. Wear a hat.

Wear a wide brimmed hat  that extends at least 6 inches form the scalp. It is also important to make sure that your hat's material is densely woven. Straw hats are very ineffective against the sun. Men who are balding should remember to place a water resistant sunscreen or block underneath the hat as well as on the ears and neck to help to maximize sun protection. Failure to remember these rules can lead to pre-cancer formation on the scalp.

5.Don't forget to use a sunscreen on cloudy days.

Even cloudy days can't prevent the sun's energy from reaching the earth. Although much of the sun's rays may be absorbed or reflected, there is still no room to let your guard down. Remember that clouds are not effective sun blocks and that sunscreen use is still essential, especially here in Florida.

6. Be aware of reflective surfaces such as sand, surf, snow, and high altitudes.

The sun can reflect off of snow, sand, concrete and water surfaces like a mirror. Remember that even while submerged in water, you are not immune against the sun's damaging effects. In some instances these surfaces can enhance sunburns to form. High altitude regions intrinsically have less atmosphere to absorb damaging ultraviolet rays.. so care  needs to be taken when enjoying activities such as mountain climbing or hiking. Because of  the reflective nature of snow or sand, remember to apply sunscreen to the undersurface of your neck for maximal protection when skiing or scuba diving.

7. Watch for medications or fruits that can increase your sensitivity to the sun.

Medications like antibiotics (tetracycline, sulfa drugs), diuretics (Lasix^®, hydrochlorathiazide), anti-inflammatory drugs (Motrin^®, Aleve^®), and estrogen supplements can cause you to become sun sensitive. It is also important to recognize that fruits such as lemons, parsley and oranges can also influence your skin to burn more easily. For a list of sun sensitive medications, please refer to our photosensitizing drug list to see if your medication may be adversely affecting you while in the sun.

8. Keep your infants out of the sun.

Babies should not experience prolonged sunshine for at least the first six months of their life. Sunblocks such as Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide are safe because they do not react with the babies sensitive skin. Clothing lines such as Solumbra^® or Sun Precautions^® are also safe. If you have any questions about a particular sunscreen brand or its safety in infants- feel free to  call 904-285-SKIN (7546).

9. Educate your children about the dangers of the sun

The best intervention is early prevention. As 80% of one's total sun exposure arises between the ages of 0 and 20 years, it is important to teach children early about the need for sunscreens and sun protection. You may even want to download this page, place it on the refrigerator for an easy reference. Children need to apply sunscreen,  15 minutes before PE class. They can slip on a hat, slap on their sunscreen and they are good to go. Remember to make sure that the sunscreen is water proof and "PABA"  free. PreSun^® or Neutrogena Cooling Mist Body Spray SPF 45 are examples of excellent sunscreens for use in children 

10. Learn the  "ABCDE" Rule (Let us know about changing moles on your skin)

The ABCDE Rule refers to the unusual characteristics of a mole which may mean something serious. These types of moles should be evaluated by your dermatologist.

• A= Asymmetry of a mole
• B=Border irregularity of a mole
• C=Multiple Colors to a mole
• D= Diameter greater than the size
  of a pencil eraser  1/4 inch
• E=Evolving Mole (Itching, Bleeding)
   

If you have such a mole or a spot which follows these rules or is itching or bleeding, it probably is a good idea to see your physician. We would be happy to set up an appointment for you if you have such a lesion.

GOOD LUCK AND REMEMBER TO THINK "SUN SMART" !!

ANSWER TO QUESTION:

T Shirt (Dry)- SPF 8

T Shirt (Wet)- SPF 4