Wednesday, August 18, 2010

Tip of the Week: What's the best sunscreen to use?

There are a ton of different types of sunscreens on the market, but recent studies have shown that melanoma is on the rise and UVA rays are responsible for this potentially deadly form of skin cancer. (FYI, tanning beds are pure UVA rays.) To ensure that you're protected, use an SPF that blocks UVA rays as well as UVB rays. And if you avoid the sun or use sunscreen, remember to supplement with extra vitamin D, at least 2,000 units each day.

www.lisabenest.com

2 comments:

Arlice Nichole said...

I'm African American, and I know that melanoma does not offer 100% protection from the sun's harmful rays, as once thought. But, can we get away with a low SPF since melanoma does offer a little protection?

Thanks! :)

Skin Care and Laser Center | Lisa Benest MD said...

Hi Arlice,

I assume you mean "melanin" instead of melanoma. Yes, darker skin is more protected from the sun, and depending on your pigment, using an SPF 15 should be sufficient. If you are going to the beach or will be outside in the sun for a long time, I would go with the SPF 30.

Dr. Lisa Benest