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Introductions
Sunscreens have become an important part of living in Australia. They are contained in many products including face creams, cosmetics and beauty products, lip balms, and traditional sunscreens. This section answers some frequently asked questions about sunscreens.
Related topics include:
- The Essentials of Sun Protection including how to apply sunscreens
- Baby and Toddler Sun Protection includes section on babies, toddlers and sunscreens
- What every Australian Should Know About Skin Cancer
- Maintain Youthful Looking Skin
How do Sunscreens Work?
Sunscreens work in two main ways:
- Sunscreens with Titanium Dioxide or Zinc Oxide work largely by reflecting ultraviolet light, effectively 'blocking out' sunlight. These are also described as 'non-chemical' sunscreens, and are less likely to cause problems in people with sensitive skin. Microfine titanium dioxide is cosmetically more acceptable than older preparations, though in high concentrations it can still give the skin a milky quality.
- Other sunscreens act as a chemical barrier. They absorb ultraviolet light (e.g. ultraviolet B and/or ultraviolet A). They contain chemicals such as cinnamates, benzophenones and dibenzoylmethanes (salicylates). Chemical sunscreens are not able to be seen once they have been applied to the skin and do not give a milky appearance.
Many sunscreen products combine a mixture of ingredients to provide a high degree of ultraviolet protection and block or absorb a broad-spectrum of damaging (ultraviolet) light.
What Should I look for When Choosing a Sunscreen?
A Sun Protection Factor (SPF) number of 30+ provides a high degree of ultraviolet light protection. Ensure it conforms with the Australian and New Zealand Standard for Sunscreens (AS/NZS2604:1998)
- "Broad Spectrum", means the sunscreen will filter both UVA and UVB rays
- Water-resistant sunscreens are best for water sports, and when you are active or likely to perspire whilst outdoors
- Ensure that the product has not expired
Whether you use a cream, gel, alcohol solution, milk or lotion largely depends on personal preferences. Alcohol or gel based sunscreens for example are easier to apply to areas with thick body hair and are less likely to worsen acne, but can dry and irritate sensitive skin.
Special formulations are available for toddlers, and people with sensitive skin.
What Does SPF Mean?
The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) number on sunscreens in Australia range from 2 to 30+. The higher the number, the greater the degree of protection offered.
Sunscreens are tested under laboratory conditions to determine their SPF number according to the Australian and New Zealand Standard for Sunscreens (AS/NZS2604:1998).
Are Sunscreens Dangerous?
Sunscreens can irritate people with sensitive skin, including burning, stinging, and some people even develop a rash. This can be more of a problem on the face and especially around the eyes. Irritation can occur with even the most carefully formulated sunscreen. If you react to one sunscreen, try another. There are some sunscreens specifically formulated for people with sensitive skin. Fragrance free sunscreens with Titanium Dioxide or Zinc Oxide as their active ingredients are less likely to cause problems in individuals with sensitive skin.
Sunscreens can also cause folliculitis, which looks similar to acne. They can also occasionally worsen acne. Alcohol or gel based sunscreens are less likely to cause these problems.
If there are still problems, you should seek medical advice.
Occasionally people become allergic to one of the components of sunscreens, including fragrances, preservatives or the active sunscreen. This may requires a special type of allergy testing performed by dermatologists, called patch testing, to identify the exact cause of your allergy so that you can avoid products containing that component. This is important as many creams and cosmetics may also contain the same ingredients.
Research has not shown any long term adverse effects from using sunscreens in humans. There is no scientific evidence that sunscreens cause cancer.
The Australasian College of Dermatologists recommend the use of sunscreens on areas of the body not covered with clothing to reduce the risks of excessive sunlight exposure.
Does the Addition of Antioxidants to Sunscreen Offer any Benefits?
There is increasing scientific evidence that the addition of strong antioxidants to sunscreen preparations may provide additional protection against many of the deleterious or damaging effects of ultraviolet light. Further research is required but antioxidants may become a valuable addition to sunscreens.
Acknowledgement
This information is based on a publication of the Australasian College of Dermatologists.
Last Modified 1 March, 2001 Dr John R Sullivan / © 2001 Australasian College of Dermatologists
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