McKnight Pediatrics

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Selecting Sunblock

June 3, 2017

Dr. McKnight, Dr. Cohen, & Ms. Laura offers the following tips for choosing a sunscreen:



  • Choose a sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher. While no sunscreen can filter out all of the sun's UVB rays, SPF 30 sunscreens block 97 percent of the sun's UVB rays.


  • Look for the words "broad spectrum." This means the sunscreen will protect against both UVA rays (which cause premature skin aging) and UVB rays (which cause sunburn). Both types of UV rays can lead to skin cancer.


  • Look for the words "water resistant." No sunscreen is completely waterproof, but water-resistant sunscreens can provide protection for wet or sweaty skin for 40 or 80 minutes, as indicated on the label. All sunscreens should be reapplied every two hours, or after swimming or sweating.


  • For sensitive skin, choose a sunscreen with the active ingredients zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Those with sensitive skin also should avoid sunscreens that contain fragrance, oils and para-aminobenzoic acid, also known as PABA.


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