The UVA star rating ranges from nought to five and indicates the percentage of UVA radiation absorbed by the sunscreen in comparison to UVB. We break it down. Both UVB and UVA rays from the sun can cause skin cancer.
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So while we wait for sunscreen companies shape up their act and clear up their labeling woes – which could take awhile, here’s what you need to know: There’s a separate star rating which usually indicates the protection a cream will offer against UVA rays. The number refers to the level of protection offered – two is the lowest level and 50+ the highest. Meanwhile, both UVB and UVA rays cause skin cancer and other forms of skin irritations. They make you look bad, they feel bad, they’re awful for you. If you notice any of these symptoms it may be time to give them a call. However, everyone is susceptible to UVA rays, which cause skin aging, immune system suppression and melanoma. “Clearly many consumers don’t realise the SPF rating applies only to the amount of protection offered against UVB rays, not UVA rays – both of which can damage the skin and cause skin cancer”. Make sure you wear clothes made of tightly woven fabric that you can not see through when held up to the light.
Vichy Ideal Soleil Mattifying Face Dry Touch SPF50+.
Wear sunglasses. They will protect your and your children’s eyes from harmful UV rays.
Melanoma, the potentially deadly skin cancer, has increased by 250 percent among USA children and young adults since the 1970s, researchers at Roswell Park Cancer Institute recently reported. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends one ounce of sunscreen, or enough to fill a shot glass, is the amount needed to properly cover the exposed areas of the body. Don’t even think about a 2 or a 4.
Knowing which SPF to go for can be tricky, and what about the UVA rating?
And one in four said they didn’t know what the SPF rating stood for at all. It’s confusing, but once you learn what to look for you’ll soon get the hang of it. And if for any reason you or a loved one are injured by a defective or unsafe product, such as mislabeled sunscreens or damaged tanning beds, or have been injured by no fault of your own, contact Hupy and Abraham. But, too much time in the sun without the proper protection is a recipe for disaster.
“People have largely got the message that they must protect their skin from the sun using sunscreen, along with other precautions such as covering up and keeping out of the sun during the hottest part of the day”.
Do not skimp on the SPF for your hands and feet-apply as generous dollop to each as you would your face.
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The brochure Sun Safety at Schools: What You Can Do explains how school administrators and staff, parents, and community health care service providers can promote sun safety.
