Sunscreen is a crucial element in protecting the skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
Whether it’s a sunny day at the beach or a routine outing, exposure to UV rays can cause skin damage, premature aging, and increase the risk of skin cancer.
Pharmacies play a vital role in educating the public about the importance of sunscreen, helping individuals select the right products for their skin type, and providing guidance on proper application techniques.
This article explores the role of pharmacists in promoting sunscreen use as part of a comprehensive skincare routine.
Why Sunscreen Is Essential
UV radiation from the sun can be divided into two main types:
• UVA rays: These rays penetrate deeper into the skin and are primarily responsible for premature skin aging, such as wrinkles and age spots.
• UVB rays: These rays affect the outer layer of the skin and are the primary cause of sunburns. Overexposure to UVB rays can also lead to skin cancer.
Both types of UV radiation can damage skin cells, leading to DNA mutations that can eventually result in skin cancer. Regular use of sunscreen helps prevent the harmful effects of UV exposure by blocking or absorbing these rays, thereby protecting the skin from burns, aging, and skin cancer.
The Role of Pharmacists in Sunscreen Education
Pharmacists are in a unique position to educate individuals about the importance of sunscreen and ensure they make informed choices. By offering advice on sunscreen types, formulations, and proper usage, pharmacists contribute to reducing the risk of skin damage and skin cancer.
1. Choosing the Right Sunscreen
Pharmacists help customers select the sunscreen that best suits their skin type, lifestyle, and needs. The key factors to consider when choosing sunscreen include:
• Sun Protection Factor (SPF): SPF measures how well sunscreen protects against UVB rays. A higher SPF indicates more protection. Pharmacists often recommend an SPF of 30 or higher for daily use and an SPF of 50 or higher for prolonged sun exposure.
• Broad-spectrum protection: Sunscreens that provide broad-spectrum protection shield the skin from both UVA and UVB rays. Pharmacists emphasize the importance of choosing broad-spectrum sunscreens to ensure complete protection from sun damage.
• Water resistance: For individuals who plan to swim or sweat, water-resistant sunscreens are essential. Pharmacists recommend products with water-resistant formulations that provide up to 80 minutes of protection, even when wet.
• Sensitive skin options: Some sunscreens may contain ingredients that can irritate sensitive skin. Pharmacists can recommend mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for individuals with sensitive or allergic skin reactions to chemical sunscreens.
• Type of sunscreen: Sunscreens come in various forms, including lotions, sprays, gels, and sticks. Pharmacists help individuals choose the most suitable form based on their preferences and convenience. For example, sprays are great for quick application, while sticks can be ideal for targeted areas such as the face.
2. Proper Application and Usage
Even the best sunscreen won’t provide adequate protection if not applied correctly. Pharmacists play a crucial role in educating customers on how to apply sunscreen properly:
• Amount to use: A common mistake people make is applying too little sunscreen. To adequately cover the body, it’s recommended to use about one ounce (a shot glass full) of sunscreen for the entire body. For the face, about a nickel-sized amount is needed.
• Timing of application: Sunscreen should be applied 15 to 30 minutes before sun exposure to allow it to fully absorb and begin working. Pharmacists often remind individuals to reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating.
• Reapplication: Sunscreen needs to be reapplied after swimming, sweating, or towel drying. Many people overlook this step, but reapplication is key to maintaining protection throughout the day.
• Expiration date: Sunscreen is not effective indefinitely. Pharmacists remind customers to check expiration dates and replace any expired products, as the effectiveness of sunscreen decreases over time.
3. Addressing Misconceptions
There are several misconceptions about sunscreen that pharmacists can address:
• Sunscreen and dark skin: Many people believe that individuals with darker skin tones don’t need sunscreen. While darker skin offers some natural protection, it does not fully protect against UV radiation. Pharmacists recommend that people of all skin types use sunscreen to reduce the risk of sun damage.
• Cloudy days and indoor exposure: UV rays can penetrate clouds and windows, so it’s important to wear sunscreen even on overcast days or when spending time indoors near windows. Pharmacists advise making sunscreen a daily habit, even when the sun isn’t shining directly.
• Sunscreen alone is not enough: Sunscreen should be used in combination with other sun protection measures, such as wearing protective clothing, seeking shade, and wearing hats and sunglasses. Pharmacists help reinforce that sunscreen is just one part of an overall sun protection strategy.
4. Special Considerations for Children and Sensitive Skin
Pharmacists are particularly helpful for parents seeking sunscreen for their children. When recommending sunscreen for kids, pharmacists typically suggest products that are:
• Gentle and hypoallergenic: Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are often recommended for young children, as they are less likely to irritate the skin compared to chemical sunscreens.
• Water-resistant and sweat-resistant: For active children who spend time swimming or playing outside, water-resistant sunscreens are essential to maintain protection.
• Non-toxic and safe for sensitive skin: Pediatric sunscreens are specially formulated to be safe for children’s delicate skin.
Pharmacists also advise individuals with sensitive or reactive skin to choose sunscreens that are free from fragrances, parabens, and alcohol, which can cause irritation.
5. Promoting Sunscreen as Part of a Skincare Routine
Pharmacists emphasize the importance of making sunscreen a daily habit. Sun protection should be incorporated into everyone’s skincare routine, whether it’s a sunny day or not. This is especially important for individuals at higher risk for skin cancer, such as those with a history of skin cancer, fair skin, or a family history of melanoma.
6. Skin Cancer Awareness
Pharmacists also play an essential role in raising awareness about the risks of skin cancer and the importance of sun protection. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, and regular sunscreen use significantly reduces the risk of developing it. Pharmacists often provide educational materials and resources to inform individuals about skin cancer prevention and the importance of early detection through self-exams and professional checkups.
Conclusion
Sunscreen is an essential tool for protecting the skin from harmful UV radiation, preventing premature aging, and reducing the risk of skin cancer. Pharmacists are invaluable in guiding individuals toward the right sunscreen choices, teaching proper application techniques, and promoting consistent usage as part of a healthy skincare routine. By consulting a pharmacist, individuals can ensure they are well-equipped to protect their skin from the sun’s harmful effects, no matter the season.
