Think you only need sunscreen at the pool? Think again
In which summer scenario should you apply sunscreen?
Scenario A: Your family is Beach-or-Bust, flying to the coast for some “R & R.” You plan to spend an entire week sunbathing and swimming.
Scenario B: You are staying Butler-Side through the warm months but will make the most of your vacation days. You begin by planning to walk your dog every morning before it gets too hot.
This is a trick question.
In both scenarios, you should liberally apply — and reapply — sunscreen before embarking on your day.
Meghan Ehko-Altman, a certified physician assistant and dermatology provider at Independence Health System, believes that people often misunderstand when, where and how often to apply sunscreen.
She says that while people often recognize that they should wear sunscreen for long summer days at the amusement park or pool, they are less likely to use their bottles of SPF 30 on a brief morning walk with the dog or even on a drive to the grocery store. However, “rain or shine,” unprotected exposure to sunlight is a risk to your skin, regardless of where you live, what activities you have planned, or even what time of day you soak up the sun.
“Many people underestimate how much incidental sun exposure they actually receive on a daily basis,” Ehko-Altman said. “Exposure comes over time from small, repeated actions — walking to the mailbox, driving or running errands.”
Ehko-Altman attributes a general lack of understanding surrounding sunscreen to the lack of awareness around ultraviolet (UV) radiation. While many have heard of UV, they may not be aware that there are two types of UV rays, and each one impacts skin differently.
UVB rays, the more well-known of the two, are strongest in the summer and are responsible for sunburn.
UVA rays, on the other hand, are present all year-round and penetrate deeper into the skin, contributing to premature aging and skin cancer.
As a result, Ehko-Altman preaches that daily sunscreen use is “essential” for maximizing skin health and longevity and for minimizing the risks of skin cancer and premature aging. She personally recommends purchasing a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which protects skin against both UVA and UVB rays, and aiming for sunscreens with SPF 30 or higher.
According to Ehko-Altman, both mineral (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) and chemical sunscreens are effective options. However, she warns that while mineral sunscreens provide protection immediately after application, chemical sunscreens should be applied about 15 minutes before exposure to the sun. Users should also reapply sunscreen every two hours, particularly after swimming, sweating or towel drying.
“Ultimately, the best sunscreen is the one that patients will use consistently,” Ehko-Altman stated. “This makes preference important.”
For Butler County residents seeking to stock up on sunscreen, The Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy in Butler offers reliable options, carrying products that take skin type and sensitivity into account.
Shop owner Parshil Patel has a few of his own favorite products — geared for sun protection and moisturization — that he recommends to customers interested in skincare.
For those with sensitive skin, Patel suggests leaning toward mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. In addition, users with acne-prone skin may want to consider oil-free or non-comedogenic sunscreen.
He also recommends that customers consider a gentle cleanser to remove sweat, oil and sunscreen after a long day outside. And, of course, no skincare routine is complete without a well-loved moisturizer.
