Some of the things we may have been told about the sun and sunscreens are perhaps inaccurate or inadequate. Here are some tips to help set the record straight.
Fiction: All sunscreens are basically the same. It’s just the SPF number that’s different.
Fact: All sunscreens aren’t the same, and SPF is only part of the story. SPF only addresses the protection from UVB rays and gives no indication of protection from UVA rays. Dermatologists recommend sun protection that offers:
- Broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays
- SPF 15 or higher
Fiction: Darker skin doesn’t burn.
Fact: Repeated sun exposure is harmful to everyone. Although skin of colour may have some natural protection from the effects of UV radiation, sun-related skin cancers are on the rise in individuals of colour, and dermatologists recommend daily use of a broad spectrum sunscreen. Sun exposure can also worsen acne blemishes, melasma, and hyperpigmentation—frequent problems with skin of colour. Sunscreens that contain vitamins and other antioxidants help protect from environmental damage and offer valuable benefits to all skin types.
Fiction: Babies shouldn’t wear sunscreen.
Fact: Pediatricians recommend that infants younger than 6 months of age stay out of the sun. This is because their skin is not fully developed. If your baby is younger than 6 months of age – ask your pediatrician about sunscreen protection. Beginning at 6 months, sunscreen, plus protective clothing and a hat, are considered essential any time babies or young children go outdoors.
Fiction: Sunscreen is sunscreen, so it’s okay to use my sunscreen on my baby.
Fact: It is best for babies to wear a sunscreen specially formulated for the unique needs of baby skin. Their skin is not yet fully developed, so sun exposure will be especially damaging. AVEENO® Baby™ Sunblock Lotion with SPF 55 blocks the sun’s harmful rays with broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection and also contains skin-soothing natural oatmeal, helping to prevent moisture loss. And it’s fragrance-free. No wonder pediatricians have recommended the AVEENO® brand for more than 60 years.