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Choose your sunscreen wisely when enjoying the sun

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With the arrival of summer, experts strongly recommend you reach for sunscreen to help protect your skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

“Sunscreen — alongside protective clothing, shade and sunglasses — plays a vital role in guarding against both short-term damage and long-term consequences of UV exposure,” said Gideon Smith, MD, Ph.D., M.P.H, professor and chair of Dermatology at Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences Eastern Virginia Medical School at Old Dominion University.

But choose your sunscreen with care, Dr. Smith advises. Not all sunscreens are the same.

Case in point: research conducted at EVMS highlights the potential risk associated with one popular sunscreen chemical, benzophenone-3 (BP-3).

"BP-3 is a widely used organic filter in sunscreens due to its ability to provide effective UV protection without leaving a white cast on the skin," said Nargiza Sadr, a fourth-year medical student who conducted the research. “However, our research has demonstrated that high concentrations of BP-3 were associated with significantly lower white blood cell and neutrophil counts, as well as abnormalities in thyroid gland function in humans.

Rehan Qayyum, MD, Harry H. Mansbach Chair in Internal Medicine and professor and chair of Medicine, collaborated on the research.

"Despite BP-3’s widespread use, concerns have been raised about its potential systemic effects, including hormone disruption and immune system impacts," Dr. Qayyum said. "Given the widespread use of BP-3 in sunscreens, understanding its impact on human health is crucial. While our research may be alarming for some, remember that sunscreens are still essential to protecting us from the harmful effects of the sun.”

If you are concerned about BP-3, Dr. Smith suggests you consider looking for sunscreens that use mineral filters like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are generally not associated with systemic absorption, or other organic filters that do not contain BP-3.

Select the sunscreen that fits your needs:

  • Go Broad-Spectrum: Always select a sunscreen labeled "broad-spectrum." This means it protects against both UVA rays (which contribute to aging and skin cancer) and UVB rays (which cause sunburn).
  • SPF Choice: SPF 30 or higher is recommended for daily use; SPF 50+ for extended outdoor activity or individuals with heightened risk. Remember, higher SPF doesn't mean you can stay out indefinitely or skip reapplication.
  • Water-Resistant Sunscreens: If you are swimming or sweating, choose a water-resistant sunscreen, which will protect for 40 to 80 minutes, as indicated on the label.
  • Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreens: Both are effective. Mineral sunscreens use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to physically block UV rays, while chemical sunscreens use organic compounds to absorb them.

No matter your skin tone, you are susceptible to sun damage. Everyone needs effective sun protection, Dr. Smith said. Melanin offers some natural defense, but not enough to prevent damage or skin cancer.

Apply sunscreen generously:

  • Use about a full shot glass (1 ounce) for your entire body and a nickel-sized amount for your face.
  • Apply 15–30 minutes before sun exposure.
  • Don’t forget easy-to-miss spots: ears, back of neck, tops of feet, scalp and hands.
  • Reapply every 2 hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating heavily.
  • Check expiration dates and store sunscreen in cool, dry places; a hot car can reduce its effectiveness.