Sun Protection Tips

The following is a list of commonly suggested recommendations by dermatologists to help minimize excessive sun exposure and the risk of associated skin cancer development. The American Academy of Dermatology and American Cancer Society have come up with certain recommendations to follow. Remember that every sun tan that you receive induces a costly skin damaging event. Over several decades, these effects become cumulative - resulting in skin cancer formation, wrinkles, pigment abnormalities, easy bruising and........ yes, oily skin. You can "Fry now and Pay later" or maybe try to follow a more skin conscious lifestyle. Let's help the First Coast residents in Jacksonville, Ponte Vedra Beach and Fleming Island get started on a safe sun program by following some simple rules as listed below.

1. Minimize sun exposure between the hours of 10 AM and 4 PM.

This is the time when the sun is at its highest level in the sky. Take shade, and think about rescheduling that jog or tennis match either early in the day or after work, especially in the summer months.

2. Don't use Tanning Beds.

These can give you 15 times the exposure to dangerous UVA and UVB rays, which can promote melanoma development. Tanning Bed use is one reason that we are seeing an increase in melanoma development in younger women. In addition, tanning beds enhance the the rate that your skin ages, specifically inducing wrinkle formation. Consider the use of self tanners instead. They are safer.

3.Use a sunscreen with at least an Sun Protection Factor of 45 or higher.

A 45 SPF sunscreen gives you about 93% protection from the sun and a SPF of 30 gives you 97% protection. If you are involved in an outdoor activity where you are sweating or in the pool-use a clear gel base sunscreen for this will not sweat off as easy. Sunscreens of this type should say "sweat resistant" or "water resistant". Lotions and cream based sunscreens are fine for everyday use but don't rely on them for recreational purposes. It is also important to remember to apply the sunscreen 15 to 20 minutes before you venture outdoors. Look for sunscreens that contain Helioplex™ or Mexoryl™. These ingredients are stabilized to offer patients protection in the UVA spectrum of light.

Question: How much does the average T Shirt give you in terms of SPF Factor? (See below for answer - bottom of page)

4. Apply your sunscreen daily.

It is very important to apply your sunscreen each day. Men can apply a moisturizing sunscreen such as TiSilc 45™, Neutrogena Ultra Sheer™ 70 or Anthelios™ 40 after shaving. Women should either use a makeup with a sunscreen or a moisturizing sunscreen. The latter can be used with an anti-aging skin care program as prescribed by our ADAS providers

5. Wear a hat and protective UV rated clothing.

Wear a wide brimmed hat that extends at least 6 inches form the scalp. It is also important to make sure that your hat's material is densely woven. Straw hats are very ineffective against the sun. Men who are balding should remember to place a water resistant sunscreen or block underneath the hat as well as on the ears and neck to help to maximize sun protection. Failure to remember these rules can lead to pre-cancer formation on the scalp and possibly lead to a bad day at the office for both the patient our staff. Shirts and pants that are also SPF rated are now very fashionable.

6. Don't forget to use a sunscreen on cloudy days.

Even cloudy days can't prevent the sun's energy from reaching the earth. Although much of the sun's rays may be absorbed or reflected, there is still no room to let your guard down. Remember that clouds are not effective sun blocks and that sunscreen use is still essential, especially here in Florida.

7. Be aware of reflective surfaces such as sand, surf, snow, and high altitudes.

The sun can reflect off of snow, sand, concrete and water surfaces like a mirror. Remember that even while submerged in water, you are not immune against the sun's damaging effects. In some instances these surfaces can enhance sunburns to form. High altitude regions intrinsically have less atmosphere to absorb damaging ultraviolet rays... so care needs to be taken when enjoying activities such as mountain climbing or hiking. Because of the reflective nature of snow or sand, remember to apply sunscreen to the undersurface of your neck for maximal protection when skiing or scuba diving.

8. Watch for medications or foods that can increase your sensitivity to the sun.

Medications like antibiotics (tetracycline, sulfa drugs), diuretics (Lasix™, hydrochlorathiazide), anti-inflammatory drugs (Motrin™, Aleve™), and estrogen supplements can cause you to become sun sensitive. It is also important to recognize that fruits such as lemons, parsley and oranges can also influence your skin to burn more easily. For a list of sun sensitive medications, please refer to our photosensitizing drug list to see if your medication may be adversely affecting you while in the sun.

9. Keep your infants out of the sun.

Babies should not experience prolonged sunshine for at least the first six months of their life. Sunblocks such as Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide are safe because they do not react with the baby's sensitive skin. Clothing lines such as Solumbra™ or Sun Precautions™ are also safe. If you have any questions about a particular sunscreen brand or its safety in infants- feel free to call 904-285-SKIN (7546).

10. Educate your children about the dangers of the sun.

The best intervention is early prevention. As 80% of one's total sun exposure arises between the ages of 0 and 20 years, it is important to teach children early about the need for sunscreens and sun protection. You may even want to download this page, place it on the refrigerator for an easy reference. Children need to apply sunscreen, 15 minutes before PE class. They can "Slip on a shirt, slop on sunscreen and slap on a hat" and they are good to go. Remember to make sure that the sunscreen is water proof.

11. If you have a sore or bleeding spot that doesn't heal by 2 months, it is probably wise to have this lesion checked out by one of our providers.

Most benign growths go away quickly. If something is persisting and does not appear to heal by 2 or 3 months, there is a possibility it could be something that needs to be addressed. Remember the best medicine is early prevention. ADAS providers are happy to help you and your skin stay on the right track.

12. Have your eyes checked by an ophthalmologist.

Ocular melanoma is a rare but life threatening condition. Like your blood pressure, if you do not have this checked, you will never know if there is a problem. The Optimap™ scan is a good way to have this checked quickly and accurately.

13. Learn the "ABCDE" Rule (Let us know about changing moles on your skin).

The ABCDE Rule refers to the unusual characteristics of a mole which may mean something serious. These types of moles should be evaluated by your dermatologist.

A = Asymmetry of a mole
B = Border irregularity of a mole
C = Multiple Colors to a mole
D = Diameter greater than 6mm ( pencil eraser)
E = Evolving Mole (Itching, Bleeding)

If you have such a mole or a spot which follows these rules or is itching or bleeding, it probably is a good idea to see us. Click here to set up an appointment or call 904-285-7546 if you have such a lesion or are concerned. We are here to help!

REMEMBER TO THINK "SUN SMART"!

ANSWER TO QUESTION:
T Shirt (Dry)- SPF 8
T Shirt (Wet)- SPF 4