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Reminder: There is still time to register for the Family Fishing Festival taking place this Saturday, June 9th from 4 to 8 PM at Bald Eagle State Park. http://www.register-ed.com/events/view/121794

Our previous blog highlighted questions and answers about insect repellent, now it is time to explore another very necessary staple of summer fun — SUNSCREEN.

Sunscreen is a must have during these upcoming months because we are spending many more hours outdoors. I have found that it is one of those products with so many options making it hard to choose what works best for you and your family. Here are some answers to questions you may have.

1. What do UVA, UVB and “Broad Spectrum” mean?

The sun’s rays are divided into two different ultraviolet rays: UVA and UVB. All ultraviolet rays damage your DNA and mutate genes, leading to cancer. UVA is responsible for skin aging and sunburn. UVB is responsible for sunburn as well as skin cancer. Broad Spectrum sunscreen means that it is sunscreen that protects you from both UVA and UVB.

2. What number of SPF should I use?

SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, blocks only UVB rays. SPF is measured by dividing the amount of time it would take for the skin to burn in the sun with sunscreen by the time it takes to burn without sunscreen.

**Most experts say that using sunscreen between 30 and 50 SPF is sufficient when used as directed. Always choose higher SPF if you are in extreme conditions.

3. Are there certain phrases that I should look for on the label?

It is important to use a sunscreen that is labeled as “broad spectrum” and/or specifically states that it protects you from both UVB and UVA rays.  Have leftover sunscreen from last year? As long as it was stored in a cool place or one that does not have huge fluctuations in temperatures, sunscreen has a shelf life of a few years. Many sunscreens also now come with an expiration date, so if you are ever unsure, adhere to this date.

4. What does "reef safe" mean?

Some sunscreen ingredients are harmful to our ocean reefs. Sunscreen washes off of us into the ocean, and these harmful ingredients activate viruses that kill algae. Without algae, ocean reefs die. This causes bleaching of the coral and it upsets the balance of the ecosystem and habitats of animals, including humans. There are plenty of sunscreens available that are reef safe and biodegradable, these are made with zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide. To read more about why reef safe sunscreens are important, go to Goddess Garden Sunscreen: Reef Safe and Biodegradable!

5. Why should I apply it so often?

Over a period of time, sunscreen can be washed off by sweat and/or water and it can also be slowly broken down by the sun’s rays. It is important to use sunscreen as directed by applying it every 2 hours, after sweating and after swimming. This ensures that you are always protected.

6. Any precautions when applying it to myself or my children?

Any child that is 6 months old or younger cannot use sunscreen. Children this young should be kept in the shade. Rash guards that protect from UVB rays are commonly sold with swimwear and will have an SPF rating on their tags.

Once children are older than 6 months, you can start using sunscreen. It is best to always do a spot check by applying a small amount in one area of the skin, like on the underside of the wrist. Wait 24 hours and if no irritation- redness, rash, itchiness- occurs, then it is typically safe to use on the rest of the body. If you have any questions or your child has any irritation, check with your pediatrician.  Another important point: a lot of sunscreen made for children is in a spray form. Be sure to coat the skin evenly avoiding the eyes, nose, and mouth. When applying it to the face, spray into your hand first and use your fingers to apply liberally over your child’s face.

Applying sunscreen 20 minutes before sun exposure allows the sunscreen to be absorbed into the skin. When applying bug spray along with sunscreen, always apply sunscreen first, wait 20 minutes, and then apply the bug spray. Use this same order when using other skin products such as make-up.

7. I'm taking some medications. Do I have to avoid the sun?

When in doubt, consult your doctor and/or pharmacist about your medication(s) to see if they will make you sensitive to the sun. Common medications that cause sensitivity include, but are not limited to: antibiotics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen, antihistamines, diuretics, and chemotherapy drugs. For a more comprehensive list of medications, follow these two links: Sun-Sensitizing Drugs and Skin Cancer Foundation’s Guide to Sunscreen.  If you are taking a medication that does make you sensitive to the sun, always wear sunscreen, wear sun protective clothing and avoid direct sunlight as much as possible. Some reactions to the sun while on certain medications can last up to 20 years so protecting yourself is very important.

8. But it's a cloudy day. Do I really have to wear sunscreen?

Yes. The sun reflects off of and through the clouds so you still get exposed to both UVA and UVB rays. This also applies to cooler days. You can still get sunburnt in the winter! Have you have ever seen goggle tans on skiers? Sun exposure occurs at any time of the year.

9. But I already have a tan. Do I need to wear sunscreen?

There is really no such thing as a "base tan." You can burn at any time no matter how tan you are, and you are never “used to” the sun. You have the same chance of burning now as you did in any of the other seasons.

10. Products made for sensitive skin?

You might be like me in regards to having sensitive skin. I recall a recent family vacation to the beach that I had to spend indoors because I did not spot check the new aerosol sunscreen. I ended up with rashes and hives and a lot of discomfort for an entire week. Learn from my mistake and always spot check. If you already know that you have sensitive skin, there are many options available, designed for sensitive skin. Here is the sunscreen that I use: Goddess Garden. They have sunscreen for all ages, and it is also reef safe!