Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world; and the use of sunscreen is an important strategy to help reduce the risk of skin cancer and premature aging.
Sun protection factor (SPF) labelling provides a reasonable indication of the effectiveness of sunscreens. The higher the number, the more time we can spend in the sun before burning – well that’s the theory anyway. The reality is that the protection will depend on a number of factors such as how well the sunscreen is applied and the formulation of the product itself (e.g., degree of water resistance).
Since 1998 the highest SPF label permitted has been 30+ (previously it had been 15+). It is now likely that a new maximum level of 50+ will be approved this year.
It’s a somewhat controversial move, because although it will allow us to more clearly differentiate between different sunscreens, the extra protection provided between 30+ and 50+ is minimal.
Perhaps more important for adequate protection is that sunscreens be applied in sufficient quantity and reapplied every two hours .It’s also important that we choose a sunscreen that has protection from the broad spectrum of ultraviolet (UV) rays. SPF ratings are measured on the burning UVB rays, but other wavelengths of ultraviolet light (e.g., UVA) can be carcinogenic too. Sunscreens are usually made up of a combination of chemical and physical UV filters. The physical filters zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are particularly valuable because of their ability to filter both UVA and UVB light.
When incorporated into sunscreens in their coarse powder form zinc oxide and titanium dioxide give the skin a white colour; so they are now generally used in microfined, so-called nanoparticle form. Despite some concerns expressed about the use of nanoparticles in industry, there is currently no evidence to suggest that use of nanoparticles in sunscreens causes damage to skin cells.
Remember the adverse effects of sunlight on the skin are cumulative. The damage on and beneath the skin is building up, even without burning.
Research undertaken by the Cancer Council and the Australian Department of Health and Aging shows that it’s not just the day, or even several days, at the beach that causes the most sun damage to our skin. The many days spent involved with everyday activities, without adequate protection from the sun, might be even more dangerous. And with most states in Australia now “saving daylight”, there is the possibility we will have more usable leisure time in the sunshine.
If you’re 55 years old or more, you were probably in your 30s when the need for skin protection became well recognised; and most of the damage to your skin had already taken place.
Of course, it’s not too late to look after your skin now; but you also need to check your skin regularly for any new spots or a change in appearance of those existing spots.
If you must have a tan, a fake tan is the best option. There are a number of products your pharmacist can recommend which offer a much safer alternative to the sun-induced variety. But, remember, the colour from a fake tan does not provide protection against UV radiation. And fake tan products that contain a sunscreen only provide protection for a few hours after application – not for the duration of the tan.
You can get more advice and a Sense in the Sun Fact Card on how to stay sun smart this summer, from pharmacies providing the Pharmaceutical Society’s Self Care health information. Phone 1300 360 772 for the location of your nearest Self Care pharmacy or check out the Pharmaceutical Society website at www.psa.org.au and click on Self Care Pharmacy Finder.
