Dallas County Living Well Magazine Summer 2014 | Page 45

ly because they think it provides more protection, when in
fact, it does not.
Manufacturers are no longer allowed to use words like
“waterproof,” “sweat proof” or “sunblock” as these terms
are misleading. What you might on sunscreen labels instead
is “water-resistant” with a time limit of 40 or 80 minutes
before the sunscreen becomes ineffective.
It is important to know that these new FDA guidelines are
still in the process of becoming completely enforced, as it
takes time for manufacturers to submit required documentation to change labeling. It is always important to read the
label of any sunscreen product you are considering.

Recommendations for Sunscreen Use
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends wearing an SPF of 30 or higher every day, not only
when you are lying out by the pool or on the beach. The
sun’s rays can still be damaging, even on a cloudy day.
Most people do not put on enough sunscreen. In fact, according to the AAD, most people only apply about 25 to 50%
of what they should put on to be fully protected. As a general guideline, you should generously apply one ounce to all
areas of the skin that will be exposed to the sun.
Sunscreen should be applied to dry skin 15 minutes before you go outside and reapplied every two hours, or after
swimming or heavy sweating.

What about Makeup and Moisturizers?
Some cosmetic products and moisturizers do contain
a small amount of SPF, but if you are trying to protect
yourself from sun damage or skin cancer that will not be
sufficient protection. Dr. Kim recommends an application
of dedicated sunscreen underneath your moisturizer and
makeup rather than relying on the SPF of your cosmetic
products.
Ultimately, you must remember that no sunscreen is
perfect. Wearing long sleeves and a hat and staying in the
shade as much as possible are also important precautions

to take to prevent sun damage or potentially deadly skin
cancer.
Dr. Flora Kim is a dermatologist at Cooper Clinic. For
more information about cosmetic and preventive dermatology at Cooper Clinic, call 972-367-6000.

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