Sunscreen

The choice of which sunscreen you use and how you use it are critical for the protection of you skin. Sunblocks and sunscreens offer ultraviolet light protection by two means: absorption of ultraviolet light, and reflecting and scattering ultraviolet light. Ultraviolet light (UVA) exposure causes damages to your skin cells, which can cause skin cancer. Even with regular use of sunscreen, it is a good idea to check yourself regularly for skin abnormalities,http://www.dermatologychannel.net/skincancer/melanoma/symptoms.shtml and to use other means of protecting yourself from the sun. People with different levels of melanin in their skin require different amounts of sunscreen to protect them from the sun. This page gives you recommendations on sunscreen choices and uses so you can be a smart consumer.

As you move up in the SPF ratings past an SPF of 15 you don't get much more protection. For instance, the protection ratings of SPF 15, 30 and 40 are 92%, 97% and 97.5%. http://www.gosunsmart.org/yourskin/yourskin_protection.shtml Also, don't choose a suncreen solely based on its SPF rating, which only rates UV-B rays, not skin damaging UV-A rays. Rather, it is better to look for products that advertise "broad-spectrum protection," which means it protects against both types of rays. Broad-spectrum sunscreens have avobenzone or sun-blocking minerals such as titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. These minerals are considered the best for protection against sunburn. http://www.makeupandbeautyblog.com/skin-care/what-to-look-for-when-buying-a-product-with-spf/

• Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock SPF 55 - has avobenzone and oxybenzone for blocking UV-A rays. It is non-oily but stngs the eyes if it gets in them. Called "lightweight. Costs about $3 per ounce.

• No-Ad Sunblock Lotion SPF 45 - contains avobenzone sunblock for blocking UV-A rays. Gives similar protection to the Neutrogena product and maintains the SPF in water for 80 min. Has aloe and fragrance. The most economical sunscreen at 60 cents per ounce.

• Blue Lizard Suncream Sensitive SPF 30 - recommended for baby or sensitive skin. Has zinc oxide and titanium dioxide for protection against UV-A rays. It is thicker and creamier than other brands, so it takes longer to apply. About $2.40 per ounce.

• Banana Boat Sport Performance Dri-Blok Sunblock Lotion SPF 30. Has a matte finish and does not sweat off as easily. Dries to a powder. Has zinc oxide and titanium dioxide for blocking UV-A rays. Can take longer to apply due to its consistency. About $1.50 per ounce.

• Source: consumersearch.com

1. Do apply 30 minutes before sun exposure
2. Do reapply after couple of hours (recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation}
3. Do reapply after swimming, bathing, or towel drying
4. Do use sunscreen along with hats, sunglasses, and shade to protect yourself best from the sun
5. Don't skimp on sunscreen--use enough to cover all your exposed skin
6. Don't use sunscreen past its expiration date