Living in Florida, we are no strangers to the harsh sun, but how do you protect yourself from it? In today’s market, the answer is often found in the sunscreen and protective clothing you use to cover your skin. So, in this blog, our founder Dr. Richard Miller will discuss physical vs. chemical sunscreen and how to minimize the dangers associated with the sun this summer.
Physical vs. Chemical Sunscreen
According to Dr. Miller, the public is often unaware of which sunscreen is safe and effective vs. which are often unsafe and ineffective. Dr. Miller says that to start; patients should focus on purchasing physical sunblock instead of chemical blockers or screeners. Physical sunblock will typically contain ingredients like Zinc Oxide or Titanium Oxide. In contrast, Chemical Blockers will contain controversial ingredients like oxybenzone that have been suspected to be somewhat dangerous to the environment and the person using it. It is also important to note the focus on sunblock instead of sunscreen because a blocker will stop the sun and UV light from impacting your skin, whereas sunscreen will only filter the UV light as it passes through.
Minimizing the Dangers
To greatly minimize the dangers associated with the sun, it is recommended to use protective clothing and avoid being out during midday. Specifically, avoiding outdoor activities between 11-1 and limiting them between 10-11 am and 1-3 pm. If an outdoor activity must be completed during these times, always apply SPF 50 or higher sunblock before leaving the house and reapply every two hours.
Dr. Miller always suggests avoiding chemical sunscreen products and referring to a Dermatologist or checking the skin cancer foundation website for instructions on keeping your skin safe. To schedule an appointment with one of our Dermatologists, please visit our website, www.BayDermatology.com, or call us at 727-585-8591.
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