SPF: Get Educated and Stay Protected

    A new study published shows that approximately 57% of Americans are confused when reading sunscreen labels, and don’t truly understand the definition of SPF.

    SPF or Sun Protection Factor is a way to let the consumer know how much protection their sunscreen will provide. A SPF of 15 allows a person to be in the sun approximately 15 times longer than that person could with no protection before the person begins to redden or burn. The higher the number of SPF the more UVB or cancer causing rays are being blocked.  A SPF 15 will block about 93% of UVB rays, while a SPF 30 will block approximately 97%.

    Also, only 7% of the population knew that certain ingredients can also help to prevent premature aging in the skin (aka wrinkles). The label on the sunscreen must say broad spectrum meaning it helps protect against UVA and UVB rays. Ingredients such as zinc and titanium dioxide help to block UVA and UVB rays, but there is no rating of how long these ingredients will protect for like the SPF rating. 

Beware of Facial Cleansers Containing Exfoliating Beads

   While exfoliation is an important aspect in skin care, there are some facial cleansers that contain exfoliating beads made from plastic. Using these products can result in abrasions or small cuts to the skin, leaving the skin susceptible to irritation and infection.

    Exfoliating the skin is an imports aspect of skin health. It will help to improve texture, evens out skin tone, prevents early signs of aging, helps products to penetrate better and decreases acne breakouts. 

  So how do you exfoliate your skin effectively and safely? 

Choose a product that has a natural exfoliant like the jojoba beads found in 

Skin Medica’s AHA/BHA cleanser.

or Theraderm NuPeel uses natural papaya enzymes for a non -abrasive exfoliation.

Don’t Forget Your Lips

    When applying your sunscreen this summer, don’t forget your lips! Actinic Chelitis is a degenerative condition of the lips that is caused from repeated UV exposure. Over time lips can become more mottled in appearance and start to lose the distinct vermilion border that separates the lip and skin. If the condition continue to progress, the lips can become cracked and form a sore or an ulceration that doesn't heal. At this stage, the damage is considered to be pre-cancerous and may progress on to lip cancer if not addressed.

To prevent UV damage and sunburns on the lips:

• Wear a lip balm with SPF 15 or higher, and reapply often.
• Wear wide brimmed hats
• Avoid sun exposure between 10AM-4PM
• Avoid tanning beds

At Florida Skin Center, we offer ColoreScience Lip Shine. This lip gloss contains SPF 35 for broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection, perfect for keeping your lips safe and protected.