What about ingredients entering the body?
Some sunscreen active ingredients pass through the skin and enter the body, although sunscreen's protective action happens at the skin's surface. Whether that exposure carries safety risks remains under evaluation, and the FDA has requested additional safety data from manufacturers. Ingredient absorption is a reason for further investigation, not a reason to leave skin unprotected. The FDA continues to advise sunscreen use alongside other sun protection because of its recognized public health benefits. In the United States, sunscreens are regulated as nonprescription drugs and must meet safety and effectiveness standards.1
Which sunscreen should you choose?
For sensitive skin, choose a mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide, titanium dioxide or both as its active ingredients. Hybrid sunscreens combine mineral and chemical filters. Whichever type you choose, look for broad spectrum protection, SPF 30 or higher, and water resistance. Broad spectrum means protection against both UVA and UVB, the two types of ultraviolet rays that damage skin.34
Creams suit dry skin and facial application; gels suit oily skin and hairy areas, which is a remarkably specific job description for a gel.2
How do you use sunscreen properly?
- 1Apply sunscreen to dry skin 15 minutes before going outdoors. Use it on uncovered skin each day you will be outside, including cloudy days.
- 2Apply generously. Most adults need at least one ounce to cover exposed skin, with more needed for a larger body. Use at least one teaspoon for the face.
- 3Cover easily missed areas, including ears, the back of the neck, hands, tops of feet and exposed scalp. Protect lips with an SPF 30 or higher lip product.
- 4Reapply approximately every two hours outdoors and after swimming or sweating, following the bottle's directions.
The SPF number measures sunburn protection. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays; higher numbers block slightly more, but none blocks them all. A higher SPF does not extend the time between applications.12
Water resistant is not waterproof. A label stating 40 or 80 minutes tells you how long the sunscreen maintains its labeled protection during swimming or sweating. Check those directions rather than assuming the usual two hour interval covers time in the water.4
What safety checks matter?
Keep spray sunscreen away from flames and heat, and never spray it directly onto the face or inhale it. Check for recalls and stop using any recalled sunscreen. Some spray products have been recalled because of benzene contamination. Discard expired sunscreen; without an expiry date, discard it three years after purchase.124
Store sunscreen away from excessive heat and direct sunlight to maintain its effectiveness. Outdoors, keep the container in shade or wrap it in a towel. Discard sunscreen if you cannot tell how old it is.1
Ask a doctor before applying sunscreen to babies younger than six months; shade and protective clothing are their main protection. If you take medicines, ask about sun precautions because some increase sun sensitivity. Extra care is needed with a personal or family history of skin cancer.14
Can sunscreen protect you on its own?
No sunscreen completely blocks ultraviolet radiation. Add shade, clothing, a broad brimmed hat and sunglasses, and limit exposure around midday. Children and fair skinned people need extra protection. Sun damage affects every skin tone. See a doctor for a new skin growth, a sore that does not heal or a changing mole.456
