The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) is a professional organization of dermatologists committed to advancing skin health and promoting the importance of sun protection.

With the goal of preventing skin cancer, the AAD has established three essential rules for sunscreen selection that individuals can follow to stay safe in the sun. By understanding these rules and choosing the right sunscreen, you can protect your skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation and reduce your risk of developing skin cancer.

Rule 1: Look for Broad Spectrum Protection

When selecting a sunscreen, it is crucial to look for products that offer broad spectrum protection. Broad spectrum sunscreens protect against both UVA and UVB rays, which are the two main types of UV radiation that can damage the skin.

UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and can cause premature aging, wrinkles, and the development of certain skin cancers. On the other hand, UVB rays primarily affect the outer layers of the skin and are the main cause of sunburn.

Both UVA and UVB radiation contribute to the development of skin cancer.

By choosing a broad spectrum sunscreen, you ensure that your skin is shielded from both UVA and UVB rays, providing comprehensive protection against sun damage.

Rule 2: Select a Sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or Higher

An important aspect of sunscreen selection is the sun protection factor (SPF), which indicates the level of protection the sunscreen offers against UVB rays. The higher the SPF, the greater the protection against sunburn.

The AAD recommends using a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. An SPF of 30 blocks approximately 97% of UVB rays, while higher SPFs provide slightly more protection. However, it’s essential to note that no sunscreen can provide 100% protection.

Therefore, regardless of the SPF, it is still important to seek shade, wear protective clothing, and practice other sun-safe behaviors.

Remember that SPF measures protection against UVB rays, so look for broad spectrum sunscreens to ensure comprehensive protection against both UVA and UVB radiation.

Rule 3: Water Resistance is Essential

Water resistance is another crucial factor to consider when selecting a sunscreen, especially if you plan to swim or engage in other water activities.

Even if you don’t plan on getting into the water, sweat and humidity can diminish the effectiveness of regular sunscreens.

Sunscreen products that claim to be water-resistant provide an added layer of protection by retaining their effectiveness for a specified amount of time while exposed to water.

However, it’s important to note that water-resistant does not mean waterproof or sweatproof. Reapplication is still necessary according to the specific time indicated on the product label, even with water-resistant sunscreens.

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding reapplication, especially after swimming, sweating, or towel drying, to ensure consistent sun protection.

Conclusion

Protecting your skin from the harmful effects of the sun is paramount to maintaining skin health and preventing skin cancer.

By following the American Academy of Dermatology’s three rules for sunscreen selection, you can increase your chances of staying safe in the sun.

Remember to look for broad spectrum protection to shield your skin from UVA and UVB rays, select a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to guard against sunburn, and opt for water-resistant formulas for added effectiveness during water-based activities.

By incorporating these rules into your sun protection routine, along with seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding sun exposure during peak hours, you can enjoy the outdoors while keeping your skin healthy and protected.