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Until recently, dermatologists have advised their patients to wear a minimum SPF 15 sunscreen.  But recent findings have prompted the American Academy of Dermatology to increase the minimum recommendation to 30.  According to  Arielle N.B. Kauvar, M.D., chair of the Academy’s Council on Communications, “research shows that most people are only applying 25 to 50 percent of the recommended amount of sunscreen.”  She goes on to say, “if you apply only half the amount that you should using an SPF 15, you are probably only getting the equivalent of an SPF 7 or 8, which is insufficient protection” (JAAD, Academy ups minimum SPF recommendation from 15 to 30 by Richard Nelson).

CORRECT SUNSCREEN APPLICATION

*It takes one ounce of sunscreen (enough to fill a shot glass) to cover the exposed parts of your body

*Apply SPF 30 or higher sunscreen liberally

*Apply sunscreen 20 minutes before going out in the sun

*Reapply often, about every one to two hours, especially after going in the water or sweating

*Sunscreen is needed even during the colder months, and while doing actvities such as skiing or snowboarding

For other helpful information on skin care, please visit American Academy of Dermatology or Derm SD patient resources