We all scream for sunscreen

You've heard it before and you'll hear it again: wear sunscreen!  But what sunscreen is best?

Sunscreens should be broad spectrum, meaning they block both UVA and UVB rays.  UVA rays cause the signs of aging: wrinkles, brown spots, and loss of elasticity (read: loose skin).  They pass through clouds and are unaffected by weather.  UVA rays also cause skin cancer.  UVB rays cause sunburns, and vary with the time of day and season.  The SPF rating on sunscreen means the level of protection against UVB rays only.

Sunscreens consist of two classes of ingredients: chemical blockers and physical blockers.  Chemical sunscreens need to be applied 30 minutes before sun exposure so that they can be absorbed into the skin.  Physical blockers, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, sit on the surface of the skin and work immediately.

So which is better?  Many sunscreens contain a combination of the two classes.  Some people are irritated by chemical sunscreens, in which case a physical block would be better.  Physical sunscreens also tend to be more sweat resistant (which is handy for exercising), although any sunscreen should be reapplied after swimming or sweating excessively.

I'm so happy about the the newest line carried at Horwitz Dermatology: EltaMD.  The UV Pure is a broad-spectrum (blocks UVA and UVB), chemical-free sunscreen.  It's great for kids and adults whose sensitive skin can be irritated by chemicals.  It's also fragrance-free, paraben-free, and noncomedogenic (as are all the EltaMD susncreens).  For those who prefer a spray sunscreen, the UV Spray is a broad-spectrum sunscreen.  The spray works really well for hair-bearing areas, such as mens' chests and backs.  It also is nice for kids (although the spray is not chemical-free).  A few caveats with spray sunscreens, however.  I recommend applying a lotion sunscreen first and then using the spray to reapply.  Also, it's important, with both spray and cream, to use enough of the product for full coverage.  For acne or rosacea prone patients, the UV Clear sunscreen contains 5% niacinamide, which helps calm redness.  Finally, the UV lip balm is an antioxidant containing sunscreen that helps protect an often neglected area of our bodies. 

In south Florida, protecting your skin is important all year round.  Choosing sunscreens that are effective and cosmetically elegant make that possible.