SUNSCREEN ANYONE?

It's summertime. It's time to head for the pool, lake or beach, and time to reach for the sunscreen…but which one?

Sunscreens overall are very effective at preventing sunburns, especially when used appropriately. They should be applied at least a half-hour before going outside, reapplied after swimming, and every two hours while remaining in the sun. They should have an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of at least 15.

But, while sunscreens do a great job at preventing sunburns by absorbing UVB, they may in fact not be as effective at preventing skin cancer. In fact, the evidence is mounting that they don't prevent the suppression of the immune system caused by UVA rays. The immune system is very important in protecting us against developing skin cancer, particularly melanoma, the most dangerous form of the disease.

MELANOMA is a cancerous mole. It typically is not perfectly round or oval, has an irregular border, irregular pigmentation or is larger than a pencil eraser size. At greater risk are those with fair complexion who burn or blister easily or have blond or red hair and light eyes. People under the age of 20 with more than 20 moles are also at greater risk.

By preventing sunburns, sunscreens may be giving people a false sense of security. Sunburn protection is not skin cancer protection.

So… what should one do?

• Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen that blocks UVA as well as UVB light. Don't trust what is advertised on the sunscreen bottle, but look for the following specific ingredients: Parsol 1789 (Avobenzone), micronized Zinc Oxide or micronized Titanium Dioxide.
  
  
• Use a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or greater. Apply it fairly thickly at least a half-hour prior to going outside. Reapply every two hours while outdoors.
  
  
• Use protective clothing such as a broad-brimmed hat, long sleeves and pants. Darker colors are more effective at blocking UV rays. Clothing especially manufactured with an SPF rating may be more effective.
  
  
• Stay indoors or under shade during the most dangerous hours, from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., when the ultraviolet rays are at their peak.

If you have any concerns about a mole or a new growth, skin screenings are strongly recommended. When skin cancer is detected in its early stages, the cure rate is excellent.