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The Sun and Your Skin

By Ronald Moy, M.D., Director of Dermatology

August 19, 2010 - 3:30PM

According to the United States Department of Health and Human Services, ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and artificial sources, such as tanning beds and sun lamps, is a known carcinogen. So what is SPF and how can it help? It stands for Sun Protection Factor, indicating the ability of the product to deflect UVB rays (short-frequency UV rays), and is the most reliable way to avoid sun damage to your skin. Since sunscreen can range anywhere from SPF 2 to greater than SPF 70, with different UVA (long-frequency UV rays) blocking ability, it can be confusing to know what’s best for you. Regardless of your skin type, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends a broad-spectrum, water resistant sunscreen of at least a SPF 30 with both UVA and UVB protection for daily use.