A nurse's advice on how to choose the safest sunscreen
This article provides practical, clinical guidance from Registered Nurse Rosemary Flattery on selecting safe, effective sunscreens and protecting sensitive skin year-round.
Key Takeaways:
Choose Broad Spectrum sunscreens rated between SPF 15 and SPF 50 for optimal UVA/UVB protection.
Higher SPFs (above 60) offer negligible additional protection and often lead to improper reapplication.
Avoid sunscreen formulations containing Oxybenzone or combination insect repellent products.
Sunscreen is only one layer of defense; physical barriers like shade, clothing, and wide-brimmed hats are essential.
Sunscreen season is never over in the Coachella Valley, the land of never-ending sunny days. So let’s talk a bit about the latest in choosing safe, effective sunscreens.
What is the difference between UVA and UVB rays?
SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is the rating given to products to evaluate their ability to protect you from UVB rays – the rays that are responsible for sunburn.
UVA rays are harmful to deeper layers of skin which can lead to aging and skin lesions. It is important to look for Broad Spectrum sunscreen products as they provide protection to UVB and UVA rays.
Is high SPF sunscreen worth it?
No. New research suggests that SPF 100 products are over rated and improperly used.
It seems that with a rating of SPF 100, people tend to not reapply them as often as needed.
Research has shown that SPF above 60 does not provide better coverage. They also tend to be more expensive.
Europe and Canada have limited sunscreens to SPF of 50. SPF 45 blocks 98% of the UVB rays.
Sunscreen products need to be REAPPLIED often regardless of SPF to be effective as they are removed by activity, sweat, heat and clothing.
Here are some tips for choosing sunscreen:
What ingredients should you avoid in sunscreen?
Avoid products containing Oxybenzone (possible hormone disruptor)
Avoid products containing Vitamin A-retinyl palmitate (can cause skin lesions when combined with the sun) if you have sensitive skin.
Avoid insect repellent/sunscreen combo products.
What to Look For Instead:
products containing SPF 15-50
products that are water resistant
products that contain zinc oxide or avobenzone
Remember to read labels to purchase safer products. Check out The Environmental Workgroup EWG.org for more information regarding safe sunscreen products and much more! You can use the “Healthy Living” app from EWG to scan products for safe ingredients.
REMEMBER: USE SUNSCREEN and REAPPLY OFTEN!
How else can you protect your skin from sun damage?
Sunscreen is only one part of sun protection.
Clothing with long sleeves, hats and sunglasses are vital barriers of protection.
Clothing and hats are available with SPF ratings that can provide extra protection for those long, sunny days.
Umbrellas and parasols are stylish and protective.
Seek out the shade when you can.
When you are lucky to live in Southern California with over 250 sunny days a year, unlimited sunshine, golf, tennis,, hikes, and the ability to enjoy all outside activities it is always a great idea to remember to protect yourself and have a blast!
Rosemary Flattery R.N.
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