Latest news with #SkinCancerFoundation
Yahoo
21-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
SPF 30 vs SPF 50: What's the real difference in sun protection?
CHICAGO (WGN) — When it comes to protecting your skin from the sun's rays, not all sunscreens are created equal. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is made up of two main types of rays that can damage your skin. UVB rays cause sunburn and UVA rays penetrate deeper and lead to skin aging, wrinkles and long-term damage. The SPF, or sun protection factor, mainly measures UVB protection. It indicates how much longer it would take for your skin to burn compared to if you weren't wearing any sunscreen at all. For example, with SPF 30, it would take you 30 times longer to burn than if you had no sunscreen on at all. The Skin Cancer Foundation says SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays while SPF 50 blocks about 98%. While the difference may seem small, the Skin Cancer Foundation says SPF 30 allows 50% more UV radiation to reach your skin than SPF 50, which can make a big difference if you're in the sun for a long period of time. But even when using a higher SPF, extra precautions should still be taken. The Skin Cancer Foundation stresses the importance of: Applying sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure Reapplying every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating Wearing protective clothing, hats and sunglasses For those who are at high risk of skin cancer, SPF 50 may not even be enough. In these cases, layering protection and seeking shade when possible becomes even more crucial. For any extended outdoor activity, the Skin Cancer Foundation recommends a water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Refinery29
02-07-2025
- Health
- Refinery29
I Know How Risky Tanning Beds Are, So Why Can't I Quit Them?
Welcome to Sun Blocked, Refinery29's global call to action to wake up to the serious dangers of tanning. No lectures or shaming, we promise. Instead, our goal is to arm you with the facts you need to protect your skin to the best of your ability, because there's no such thing as safe sun. 'I'll just do a few sessions on a tanning bed to build a base tan before my holiday,' I told myself earlier this year. The results weren't instant, unlike the self-tanners I've used for over a decade, but after a few visits, my skin looked golden. I enjoyed the somewhat lasting glow that didn't leave me looking like a slice of Dutch crunch bread after four days. I planned to stop going to the tanning salon once I returned home, but the allure of tanned skin was hard to resist. What started as building a vacation base tan — which dermatologists argue is actually a myth — quickly turned into, 'I'll keep going so I'm tanned for my birthday,' then, 'I might as well continue over summer. A few more weeks won't hurt.' Before I knew it, I was clocking up more minutes at the tanning salon than I could count. But here's the thing: I know the potentially life-threatening risks of using tanning beds. I know that using tanning beds increases the risk of developing skin cancer, including melanoma, and that, as reported by the Skin Cancer Foundation, more than 419,000 cases of skin cancer in the US each year are linked to indoor tanning. I'm not alone in knowing the risks. In a survey conducted by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), 20% of Gen Z adults said that getting a tan is more important to them than preventing skin cancer. But exactly why do we continue? Dr. Ravi Gill, a practitioner psychologist at Smart Mind Health, says that beauty ideals such as ' tanned equals attractive ' can override our instinct for self-protection: 'This is due to powerful social and psychological influences,' says Dr. Gill. Adding, 'From a young age, we're exposed to messages — through media, peers and culture — that link tanned skin with attractiveness, status, and health. Over time, these ideas are internalized and tied to our self-worth and identity.' Lisa, 32, can certainly relate. She used a tanning bed for the first time at just 17 years old after a friend said it would 'look good' to have tanned skin. 'I was curious, so I decided to give it a try,' she tells me, adding that body insecurities are a reason she still uses them: 'When I'm tanned, the spider veins and cellulite on my legs, which you don't see much of on social media, are less visible,' she says. 'That makes me feel more confident. I get compliments as well, which is motivation to continue.' Interestingly, tanning isn't the only example of how we're trading safety for self-esteem. This notion can also be applied to many of our aesthetic practices, like unregulated Botox and BBLs, which have a notoriously high mortality rate in comparison to other cosmetic procedures. Shedding light on this, Dr. Gill explains that humans crave social acceptance and fear rejection, choosing to conform to beauty norms — even when they involve risks: 'The desire for social belonging and approval often feels more immediate and emotionally powerful than long-term health concerns,' she says. ' While I think tanning makes me look better in many ways, I feel particularly conflicted about the damage it's doing thanks to my medical history: I've always had a few questionable moles. The fact that I use tanning beds is something I'm quite embarrassed about. ' Concerningly, Lisa tells me that she fears skin aging more than skin cancer: 'Ironically, I've curated a social media feed full of skinfluencers teaching me how to look after my skin, and I've honed a [multi-step] skincare routine. Yet I continue to do the one thing that will damage my skin the most — something which no amount of serum or SPF can save me from.' Lisa's honesty, or as she puts it, 'silliness', might seem extreme to some, but it reveals a deeper truth: decades of messaging have taught us that our value lies in our appearance. Thanks to the popularity of Ozempic alongside the return of thinness on red carpets and For You Pages (which notably prompted the 'skinnytok' hashtag ban), being slim is back on a pedestal — and tanning plays a role here. I've often found myself commenting on how much 'slimmer' I look with a tan, and who can blame me? Shows like Love Island have helped solidify the idea that bronzed skin doesn't just look 'better' but also leaner and more sculpted — like contouring for your whole body. Is tanning bad for you? While I think tanning makes me look better in many ways, I feel particularly conflicted about the damage it's doing thanks to my medical history. I've always had a few questionable moles. Some are asymmetric, others have jagged borders and a range of colors. On holiday, when my skin is exposed in a bikini, friends and family have commented on it and encouraged me to get checked out. After spending time living in Australia, where UV levels are very high, I decided to follow through on this. I wasn't a tanning bed user at the time of my first (or second) mole check, but doctors did flag that the Sydney sunshine could have put my skin at risk. After an examination of my moles, I was advised to keep an eye on them and return if I saw any 'noticeable changes'. In the years since those checks, I've observed a handful of changes to some of my moles. But as someone with health anxiety, I never know if I'm being paranoid or if I really should go back to the doctor. Consequently, I'm in limbo — I don't want to waste my doctor's time if the changes I've seen aren't 'noticeable' enough, but I also don't want to ignore the issue and end up in a potentially life-threatening situation. Taking all of this into consideration, the fact that I use tanning beds probably sounds absurd. Honestly, it's something I'm quite embarrassed about. Why do we use tanning beds despite the risks? Dr. Gill explains that this is a case of cognitive dissonance, when a person feels psychological discomfort because their actions contradict their beliefs. 'In beauty culture, this dissonance is common,' she says, pointing again to societal pressures. 'For example, someone may understand the risks of tanning bed use or crash dieting but still engage in these behaviors to align with societal beauty ideals.' Dr. Gill goes on to explain that we try to resolve this internal discomfort by rationalizing our behaviors rather than changing them. Telling ourselves, 'It's just for summer' or 'Everyone else is doing it' is an easy way to avoid feelings of guilt. Critics, however, often think that tanning bed users should feel guilty for this choice. But here's the thing: 'Shaming people for using tanning beds often backfires, making them more likely to continue the behavior,' says Dr. Gill. She adds, 'Research shows that self-criticism reduces motivation for change, while compassionate, non-judgmental support is more effective in encouraging healthier choices.' But can anyone truly say they've always put their health above all else? Like tanning beds, alcohol, processed meat, and tobacco, for example, are classed as type one carcinogens — substances that can cause cancer. I'm keen to know whether those who frown on my habit often indulge in a fast food burger or unwind with a bottle of wine. ' We are watching the number of skin cancers scale out of control in our clinics. Dr Kiely ' Is tanning addictive? That's before we bring class into the equation. Research that shows those from lower socio-economic backgrounds are more likely to use tanning beds. Although further investigation is needed to explore why that is, a 2022 study concluded that tanning bed use has been historically framed through the media as a 'working-class activity'. Of course, it's not just about class, appearances or a taste for Sauvignon Blanc; the addictiveness of carcinogens plays a role: 'Tanning is addictive and there's actually a biological explanation,' says Dr. Clare Kiely, a consultant dermatologist and cofounder of The Skin Diary. She explains that when the body is exposed to UV radiation, it triggers a process that results in the release of endorphins, hormones that create a sense of 'euphoria'. For many, the glow isn't just about looking good — it's about feeling good, too: 'I'm normally in a better mood after a tanning bed,' confirms Ella, who agrees this 'mood-boosting' effect is a big factor in why people feel addicted to tanning beds. Lisa echoes this, telling me she enjoys the light and 'me-time' of being on a tanning bed: 'It's like dreaming myself away to a beach.' Given how addictive tanning beds are, the responsibility to prevent their damage shouldn't rest solely on users. Many experts argue that stricter regulation is the only way forward, especially as research shows we continue to tan in spite of the evidence before us. 'I don't believe the current regulations are adequate,' says Dr. Rakesh Anand, a consultant dermatologist and British Skin Foundation spokesperson. He notes that while there are restrictions on under-18s and some standards for equipment and usage, there's still a 'significant' public health risk. 'Given the well-established link between tanning bed use and skin cancer, stronger measures are urgently needed,' he adds. As for what that might look like, various skin cancer charities have called for tanning beds to have graphic warning signs similar to those found on cigarette packets, while a June 2025 study exposed ' potential gaps in current regulations ' when it comes to tanning salons marketing on social media. Whether on a tanning bed in New York or a beach lounger in Mexico, dermatologists are firm in their answer that there's no such thing as a safe tan — 'Unless it's self-tanner from a bottle,' says Dr. Kiely. She agrees with Dr. Anand that the only way to 'eliminate' risk is to ban tanning beds, as they are in countries such as Australia and Brazil: 'I'm coming at it as a person who has spent her career cutting out thousands of skin cancers, some of them life-threatening,' Dr. Kiely adds. 'We are watching the number of skin cancers scale out of control in our clinics. We must take measures now to protect future generations.' Despite being reminded by every expert of the very real dangers before me, in the time I've been writing this article, I've racked up another 44 minutes on the tanning beds — although I have reduced the frequency of my visits. I want to stop altogether and pick up my once-beloved self-tanners that are currently collecting dust, but I'm trying to feel less guilt and shame about this habit, as I've unpicked how years of societal pressure led me to this point. Ultimately, that's what needs to change. From Botox to fillers and beyond, we've all been sold on the 'ideal' appearance, which can differ depending on what we've been conditioned into thinking. The recent ban on disposable vapes proves that if people want to do something, they'll find a way, so we all have to do our part in breaking the cycle when it comes to tanning. Mine is writing this article and being vulnerable about a paradox many of us feel but rarely discuss: the desire to protect our skin while craving the glow of a tan. It would also help to see celebrities and influencers embracing their natural skin tones, and for brands to do the same with the models in their campaigns. Whether it's a school session or a poster in a tanning salon, better education could also go a long way — not just about the dangers of tanning beds, which clearly isn't always enough, but about how to resist outside pressure. In learning how to accept ourselves as we are, we might just find the glow hits differently when it comes from within.
Yahoo
01-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Do We Need to Wear Sunscreen Indoors? This Is What a Skin Expert Says
You know the drill -- whenever you're outside, especially during the summer, you should wear sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun's UV rays. But what about wearing sunscreen indoors? Can sunlight coming in through windows still negatively affect your skin, making SPF necessary even when you're inside your home? We reached out to a dermatologist for the answer. EltaMD UV Clear, CNET's best overall See at Amazon Yes, wearing sunscreen indoors is necessary. Even though you're sitting comfortably in your home, UV rays can cause just as much damage to your skin as they would if you were sitting outside in your backyard. Since there are different types of UV rays, understanding how each affects you can help you understand why daily sun protection is important. Here are the three main types of UV rays: UVA (Ultraviolet A): UVA rays penetrate deeply into the skin, contributing significantly to skin aging and increasing the risk of skin cancer. UVB (Ultraviolet B): UVB rays primarily affect the outer layers of the skin, causing sunburn and playing a crucial role in the development of skin cancer. UVC (Ultraviolet C): UVC rays are absorbed by the Earth's atmosphere and do not reach the surface, thus posing no direct threat to human health. According to Skin Cancer Foundation, window glass blocks most UVB rays but allows at least 50% of UVA rays to pass through. Prolonged exposure to these UVA rays indoors can contribute to premature skin aging and potentially increase the risk of skin cancer over time. "In the short term, prolonged UV exposure increases the risk of developing a sunburn, which at its most extreme version can include systemic symptoms such as fever and chills," said Dr. Elyse Love, board-certified dermatologist. "Cumulative prolonged UV exposure is a leading cause of skin cancer development." If you're sitting in front of a window, sunscreen is always a great defense against UVA rays. Sun protection factor, or SPF, works by extending the time it takes for UV rays to cause sunburn on your skin compared to not using sunscreen. One of many myths about sunscreen is the higher the SPF, the better the protection; however, when it comes to daily sunscreen use for those indoors, a high SPF isn't necessary. "Broad-spectrum SPF 30 is adequate sun protection," said Love. Since sunscreen comes in different forms, including sprays, creams, lotions and gels, this will also factor into what works best for you. "I recommend considering personal preference of skincare textures and how practical reapplication of sunscreen will be," Love stated. Your clothing also shields you from the sun, but you'll want to ensure your ultraviolet protective factor or sun-protective clothing is sufficient. There are a few things to consider when it comes to factors like color, fabric and fit. For example, dark or bright colors absorb UV rays, offering better protection than lighter shades. Densely woven fabrics like denim, canvas, wool or synthetic fibers create a more effective barrier by preventing UV penetration. Then there are fabrics like unbleached cotton, shiny polyesters or high-tech materials with UPF labels that maximize protection, reflecting or absorbing UV radiation. Additionally, loose-fitting attire ensures fibers remain close, not stretched across the skin, enhancing overall coverage and effectiveness against UV exposure. "For situations where reapplication will be difficult, but UV exposure cannot be avoided, I recommend UPF clothing, which provides steady protection while wearing," Love explained. Window treatments enhance protection against UV rays indoors. Use window blinds, shades or curtains made from UV-protective materials to filter out harmful rays while still allowing natural light to enter. Also, remember to close window coverings during periods of intense sunlight, especially in rooms where you spend a lot of time. This practice not only reduces UV exposure but also helps regulate indoor temperature. "Lowering shades during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) can be very helpful to minimize direct UV exposure while indoors. In addition, positioning furniture so that the back is away from direct sun sources," said Love. To mitigate these risks, you can also place UV-blocking films or coatings on windows. This provides additional protection by reducing UV transmission without compromising natural light indoors. According to National Glazing Solution, window film can successfully block up to 99.9% of UV rays. Sitting in front of a window exposes you to UV rays, which can penetrate glass and cause skin damage. Taking proactive steps against indoor UV exposure not only guards against premature aging and skin cancer but also promotes overall skin health. Prioritizing sun protection -- whether through daily sunscreen application (at least broad-spectrum SPF 30), using UV-blocking window treatments or wearing sun-safe clothing -- ensures that your skin remains healthy. By integrating these practices into your routine, you can effectively minimize the cumulative effects of UV exposure and maintain optimal skin wellness indoors and out.
Yahoo
01-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Does Sun-Protective Clothing Really Work? A Dermatologist Weighs In
Sun-protective clothing with a UPF of 50+ offers consistent, long-lasting UV protection that doesn't wash off or wear away like sunscreen. Experts recommend checking for the Skin Cancer Foundation's Seal of Recommendation and choosing darker, tightly woven fabrics that cover more skin. For best results, combine UPF clothing with sunscreen on exposed areas, and care for garments gently to maintain their protective power over summer heats up, spending more time outdoors means increased exposure to the sun. We all know sunscreen is a go-to, but can sun-protective clothing offer even better coverage? We asked experts to weigh in and provide their tips on how sun-protective clothing works, what to look for when shopping, and how to make sure your gear keeps doing its Emily Wood, M.D., is a board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology in Marble Falls and Austin, clothing refers to garments specially designed with built-in protection to shield the skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. These pieces are rated with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF), which indicates how effectively the fabric blocks UV radiation. The higher the UPF rating, the greater the level of protection it provides. Wearing a shirt with a UPF of 50+ offers a similar level of protection as SPF 50+ sunscreen but with more consistency. Unlike sunscreen, which can wear off, clothing provides steady coverage throughout the day. Many people don't apply enough sunscreen or forget to reapply it every two hours, which reduces its effectiveness and increases the risk of sunburn, skin aging, and skin cancer. "Unlike sunscreen, sun-protective clothing doesn't wash off with water or sweat," explains Dr. Emily Wood, a board-certified dermatologist. "It offers superior sun protection, especially when spending extended time outdoors, and it's also a great option for keeping busy kids safe in the sun." Styles have come a long way in recent years, and function does not have to come at the expense of fashion. From wide-brimmed hats and lightweight dresses to swimwear, shirts, and pants, there are many sun-safe choices available. According to experts, clothing with a UPF of 50 or higher offers the best protection from the sun's rays. The Skin Cancer Foundation gives its Seal of Recommendation to fabrics that meet this standard. Shoppers can find this seal on products such as clothing, hats, and accessories made from UV-protective materials. One of the first clothing brands to receive this seal of approval was Coolibar. The company uses specific fabric construction, color, and weight to block UV rays. Sean Kifer of Coolibar emphasizes the importance of investing in garments that can withstand repeated washing as well as exposure to sweat, chlorine, and salt. Kifer also recommends looking for items made with darker or more vivid colors, which absorb more UV rays than light or sheer fabrics. He suggests selecting pieces with tighter weaves and thicker fabrics and opting for styles that offer more coverage, such as those with long sleeves, high necklines, or longer hems. Wood agrees that investing in quality UPF-rated clothing is important: "Most people do not realize a regular t-shirt only offers sun protection of about SPF 5." Experts agree that sun-protective clothing is the first line of defense, but for complete protection, a broad-spectrum sunscreen is still essential. "I like to think of sun protection as a comprehensive routine," says Kifer. "Clothing, sunglasses, and a hat, plus sunscreen for uncovered areas, offer the best protection." "Sunscreen is not needed under areas covered with UPF clothing," says Wood. "I always advise my patients to apply sunscreen before putting on clothing so that they do not miss the shoulders, wrists, waistline, or other areas that may become exposed when clothing shifts or gets wet." She also notes the importance of overlap: "I always apply my sunscreen so that it overlaps with the edges of my sun-protective clothing." Proper care is key to keeping sun-protective clothing performing at its best. Kefir recommends washing garments in cold water with a gentle detergent and avoiding fabric softeners, bleach, or other harsh detergents. Line drying or using a low-heat tumble setting is best. UPF clothing should never be dry cleaned since the chemicals can break down the protective fibers over time. While quality UPF fabrics should last several seasons, there are signs that a garment might need to be replaced. These include thinning fabric, stretching or sagging, holes, flaying, and heavy pilling. "As a rule of thumb, if the fabric looks visibly worn or lets light through, it may no longer provide full UPF 50+ protection," says Kifer. Read the original article on Southern Living
CNET
30-06-2025
- Health
- CNET
Do We Need to Wear Sunscreen Indoors? This Is What a Skin Expert Says
You know the drill -- whenever you're outside, especially during the summer, you should wear sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun's UV rays. But what about wearing sunscreen indoors? Can sunlight coming in through windows still negatively affect your skin, making SPF necessary even when you're inside your home? We reached out to a dermatologist for the answer. Do I need to wear sunscreen indoors? Yes, wearing sunscreen indoors is necessary. Even though you're sitting comfortably in your home, UV rays can cause just as much damage to your skin as they would if you were sitting outside in your backyard. Since there are different types of UV rays, understanding how each affects you can help you understand why daily sun protection is important. Here are the three main types of UV rays: UVA (Ultraviolet A): UVA rays penetrate deeply into the skin, contributing significantly to skin aging and increasing the risk of skin cancer. UVB (Ultraviolet B): UVB rays primarily affect the outer layers of the skin, causing sunburn and playing a crucial role in the development of skin cancer. UVC (Ultraviolet C): UVC rays are absorbed by the Earth's atmosphere and do not reach the surface, thus posing no direct threat to human health. According to Skin Cancer Foundation, window glass blocks most UVB rays but allows at least 50% of UVA rays to pass through. Prolonged exposure to these UVA rays indoors can contribute to premature skin aging and potentially increase the risk of skin cancer over time. "In the short term, prolonged UV exposure increases the risk of developing a sunburn, which at its most extreme version can include systemic symptoms such as fever and chills," said Dr. Elyse Love, board-certified dermatologist. "Cumulative prolonged UV exposure is a leading cause of skin cancer development." What type of sun protection do you need when sitting in front of a window? If you're sitting in front of a window, sunscreen is always a great defense against UVA rays. Sun protection factor, or SPF, works by extending the time it takes for UV rays to cause sunburn on your skin compared to not using sunscreen. One of many myths about sunscreen is the higher the SPF, the better the protection; however, when it comes to daily sunscreen use for those indoors, a high SPF isn't necessary. "Broad-spectrum SPF 30 is adequate sun protection," said Love. Since sunscreen comes in different forms, including sprays, creams, lotions and gels, this will also factor into what works best for you. "I recommend considering personal preference of skincare textures and how practical reapplication of sunscreen will be," Love stated. Your clothing also shields you from the sun, but you'll want to ensure your ultraviolet protective factor or sun-protective clothing is sufficient. There are a few things to consider when it comes to factors like color, fabric and fit. For example, dark or bright colors absorb UV rays, offering better protection than lighter shades. Densely woven fabrics like denim, canvas, wool or synthetic fibers create a more effective barrier by preventing UV penetration. Then there are fabrics like unbleached cotton, shiny polyesters or high-tech materials with UPF labels that maximize protection, reflecting or absorbing UV radiation. Additionally, loose-fitting attire ensures fibers remain close, not stretched across the skin, enhancing overall coverage and effectiveness against UV exposure. "For situations where reapplication will be difficult, but UV exposure cannot be avoided, I recommend UPF clothing, which provides steady protection while wearing," Love explained. nemke/Getty Images Tips for sun protection indoors Window treatments enhance protection against UV rays indoors. Use window blinds, shades or curtains made from UV-protective materials to filter out harmful rays while still allowing natural light to enter. Also, remember to close window coverings during periods of intense sunlight, especially in rooms where you spend a lot of time. This practice not only reduces UV exposure but also helps regulate indoor temperature. "Lowering shades during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) can be very helpful to minimize direct UV exposure while indoors. In addition, positioning furniture so that the back is away from direct sun sources," said Love. To mitigate these risks, you can also place UV-blocking films or coatings on windows. This provides additional protection by reducing UV transmission without compromising natural light indoors. According to National Glazing Solution, window film can successfully block up to 99.9% of UV rays. The bottom line Sitting in front of a window exposes you to UV rays, which can penetrate glass and cause skin damage. Taking proactive steps against indoor UV exposure not only guards against premature aging and skin cancer but also promotes overall skin health. Prioritizing sun protection -- whether through daily sunscreen application (at least broad-spectrum SPF 30), using UV-blocking window treatments or wearing sun-safe clothing -- ensures that your skin remains healthy. By integrating these practices into your routine, you can effectively minimize the cumulative effects of UV exposure and maintain optimal skin wellness indoors and out.
