Joe Rocco
For Dr. Yaohui Gloria Xu, the choice is simple: Wear sunscreen or stay indoors between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are the strongest.
“Regardless of what kind, spray or cream, or brand, you just have to use it.” says Xu, an assistant professor of dermatology at UW-Madison.
Xu says preserving skin health should be a year-round goal. Up to 80% of the sun’s rays come through clouds, and snow further reflects rays, which means there can be even more UV light in winter. But protection becomes even more critical in the summer, when more people are outside and more exposed to the sun.
Unless you have any open wounds (areas on which you should avoid putting sunscreen), don’t worry about the sunscreen ingredients making their way into your bloodstream. There’s yet to be scientific research released proving this is a danger, says Xu.
Common mistakes in applying sunscreen are not using enough, not spreading it evenly and not using it on the face, says Xu.
Of concern are both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are longer and able to penetrate window glass (and your car windows) and your skin to a deeper level. UVA rays are “the main carcinogen that causes skin cancer and aging,” says Xu. “UVA also causes wrinkles.” UVB rays, on the other hand, “will cause immediate burning, but they penetrate more superficially.”
Xu recommends reapplying sunscreen every two hours when in the sun and every 40 to 80 minutes if you’re sweating or swimming.
In addition to wearing sunscreen, protect your skin by wearing a hat, sunglasses rated to block 100% of UVA and UVB rays and light clothing — long-sleeved shirts and pants that cover your skin.
Xu, along with her colleague Dr. Mark Albertini, will give a presentation at Gilda’s Club of Madison, 7907 UW Health Court, Middleton, at 6 p.m. on June 20. They will discuss skin safety tips, when to see a doctor for skin concerns, and new advances in treatments for metastatic melanoma — that is, skin cancer.
Here’s what to look for when purchasing sunscreen:
• “Water-resistant” instead of “waterproof” (a false claim)
• “Broad spectrum” protection, which includes both UVB and UVA rays
• An SPF of 30 to 50. There’s no data to prove anything higher is actually more effective.
