This is the time of year that many of my patients dread because they know I will soon be giving them “the Talk.” And not just once, but probably every time I see them over the next 5 or so months. What is it about this particular discussion that makes them hate having to listen to it? Well, just listen to some of their comments after I’ve given them the Talk:

“Ooh, I hate getting that sticky stuff all over me.” 

“Ugh – way too greasy for me.” 

“I hate the way it smells.”

“Doing it is not worth the benefits.”

“It makes me look like I’m having a permanent hot flash.”

My own opinion is that they are all overreacting to using sunblock. Especially given its benefits. Not only is using it religiously every day and anytime you are outside (rain OR shine) lifesaving in many cases, but it can actually prevent wrinkles. If you’re one of those women who like your wrinkles (I like some of mine), then look again at what else it does – it can prevent skin cancer which can be deforming and, in the case of melanoma, lifethreatening.

I think that there are two reasons that make people not want to use sunblock regularly. One is that they don’t know about all the newer products that are formulated so that it’s easy to wear: ie, not greasy or sticky or smelly, and doesn’t interfere with your makeup or make you look sweaty. The other reason is the whole topic of sunblock just seems to be too complicated. And, in a way, it is complicated.

So, I’m going to make it easy for you and give you a quick lesson on SUNBLOCK because I believe it is that important.We discuss it in much greater detail in our book if you want to learn more. Here goes – quick and easy:

1) Especially during the months of April – October (in this country), you need to wear sunblock on all  exposed skin when you are outside –     even for a short walk. That includes your face and lips, ears, neck, exposed chest, arms and hands, and legs/feet (something I always forget).

2) This goes for everyone – light-skinned and dark-skinned ladies (and guys).

2) Be absolutely certain that your sunblock is protective against ultraviolet rays of both types – A and B. The box and tube should be   labelled as active against “UV A and UVB”. In fact, the FDA is requiring labels in the very near future.

3) Don’t be stingy with the amount you use. Slather it on! The official recommendation for the amount necessary to be protected is at least 2 tablespoons on each area of the body that will be exposed to the sun.

4) Don’t wait until you’re outside to use it. Put it on at least 1/2 hour before you are exposed to the sun, and reapply at least every 2 hours, or sooner if you are swimming or sweating excessively.

5) Use a product with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. I generally recommend and use products with a much higher SPF – usually 40 or 50.

6) Know that there are two types of sunblock ingredients – chemical and physical. The chemical sunscreens actually interact with your skin to protect it from the sun; some examples are PABA, Parsol, and oxybenzone. The physical sunscreens simply form a barrier on top of your skin to prevent the UV A and B rays from getting to the skin iself; these are descendants of the old zinc oxide – remember the heavy white paste that the cute lifeguard at your pool wore when you were a teen?- and today are called titanium dioxide and other similar names. Both types protect well; the main difference is that the chemical sunscreens are more prone to cause allergic reactions of the skin, and the physical ones do not. I personally cannot wear chemical sunscreens because I swell and turn red anywhere I use it, not to mention the dreadful itching.

That’s it! The basics of what you should know about sunblock. Not so bad, was it? OK, now, use it!  

P.S. You should actually wear sunblock all year round, but I will save that Talk for next October. Janet Horn