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posed parts of the skin to provide effective protection. To achieve
the full SPF value on the product label, the amount of sunscreen
necessary to cover sun-exposed skin of an average-sized adult is
approximately equivalent to the amount required to fill a 1-ounce
(30 mL) shot glass or 6 teaspoons. However, larger amounts, up to
45 mL or 9 teaspoons, may be needed. Application of the sunscreen
15-30 minutes prior to outdoor exposure allows for the formation
of a water-resistant film 3 .
It is important to remember that sun damage is not immediate.
It occurs after years of cumulative exposures; sun protection should
begin at a young age and be practiced consistently. It is recommend-
ed to avoid sunscreen for infants under 6 months of age and using
UPF rated protective clothing is recommended. A minimal amount
of sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 may be applied to exposed
areas such as the face and the backs of the hands.
days and yet we all want to have minimum change to our bodies
and skin in the process. If we use sunscreen wisely, it can be used
safely. If we add in protective clothing, we can keep larger areas of
skin youthful in appearance.
References
1. Matta MK, Zusterzeel R, Pilli NR, et al. Effect of Sunscreen Appli-
cation Under Maximal Use Conditions on Plasma Concentration of
Sunscreen Active Ingredients: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA.
2019;321(21):2082–2091. doi:10.1001/jama.2019.5586
2. Matta MK, Florian J, Zusterzeel R, et al. Effect of Sunscreen Application
on Plasma Concentration of Sunscreen Active Ingredients: A Randomized
Clinical Trial. JAMA. 2020;323(3):256–267. doi:10.1001/jama.2019.20747
3. skincancer.org/skin-cancer-prevention/sun-protection/sun-protec-
tive-clothing/
4. Paller, AS et al. New Insights About Infant and Toddler Skin: Implications
for Sun Protection. Pediatrics. 2011 July; 128 (1): 92-102.
Dr. Jyoti Burruss is a practicing dermatologist at Associates in Dermatology.
In summary, there are many long-term benefits of diligent sun
protection besides those mentioned above. There can be a reduction
in the amount of time and money spent treating growths and skin
cancers as well as the avoidance of scars from these treatments.
There is a notable decrease in the blotchiness of the skin, which
stems directly from an increase in large bruises and easily torn or
fragile skin.
We all want to age gracefully. We all want to enjoy many birth-
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR
SUNSCREEN USAGE
1. Use an SPF sunscreen 30 or higher 2. Use sunscreen on all individuals older
than 6 months of age 1.
THE COMMON MISTAKES WITH
SUNSCREEN USAGE INCLUDE:
1. Composition of the yarns (cotton, poly-
ester, etc.) Check the expiration date. Sunscreen
does expire.
2. Apply sunscreen 15-30 minutes prior to
outdoor exposure 2. Tightness of the weave or knit (tighter
weave improves rating) Avoid over-heating (do not leave it in
the car)
3. 4. Use UPF rated clothing, which should
include a hat with a wide brim as well
as long sleeves and long pants, when
possible 3. Color (darker colors are generally better) Apply sunscreen every day (even on a
cloudy day)
5. Reapply sunscreen every two hours and
after swimming (even with a water-re-
sistant sunscreen) 6. Condition (worn, faded garments may
have reduced ratings)
3.
The use of sun-protective clothing allows
for greater sun protection and can help de-
crease the area which needs to be covered
with sunscreen. The degree of protection
provided by clothes is defined by the ultravi-
olet protection factor (UPF), which indicates
how effective a fabric is at blocking out solar
ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
26
FACTORS THAT CONTRIBUTE TO THE
UPF RATING OF A FABRIC INCLUDE THE
FOLLOWING 3
LOUISVILLE MEDICINE
4. Stretch (more stretch lowers rating)
5. Moisture (many fabrics have lower rat-
ings when wet)
7.
Finishing (some fabrics are treated with
UV-absorbing chemicals)
4. Apply sunscreen below clothing/bathing
suits (especially if it is not UPF rated
clothing)
5. Remember to apply sunscreen ALL over
(including in and behind the ears, lips,
as well as the tops and bottoms of feet)
6. Avoid sunscreen/insect repellant com-
bination products