New Sunscreen Guidelines & 20% off our sunscreens!

The FDA will be mandating new sunscreen guidelines starting June 2013.

On the front label of your sunscreen look for:

• Broad Spectrum
• SPF >30 (the FDA requires SPF >15 but dermatologist and the American Academy of Dermatology recommend  SPF >30)
• Water Resistant

In Order for a sunscreen to be classified as "Broad Spectrum", to cover UVA and UVB, the sunscreen must pass a critical wavelength  test. Most current sunscreen has a SPF factor that protects against UVB. Unfortunately, UVA radiation goes deeper into the skin to cause cell damage and increases your risk for skin cancers. UVA radiation also causes most of the hyperpigmentation, suntan and stimulation of melanocytes (which can contribute to melasma). The new "Broad Spectrum" designates UVA and UVB protection. 

The back label of your sunscreen should read:

• helps prevent sunburn
• if used as directed with other sun protective measures (see directions) decreases the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging caused by the sun.

"Directions include":

• Apply liberally 15 minutes before sun exposure
• reapply after 80 minutes of swimming, immediately after towel drying, and at least every 2 hours

Sun Protection Measures:

     Spending time in the sun increases your risk of skin cancer and early skin aging. To decrease this risk, regularly use a sunscreen with a broad spectrum of 15 or higher and other sun protection measures including:

• limit time in sun, especially from 10 am - 2 pm
• wear long sleeve shirts, pants, hats, and sunglasses

Before using sunscreen on children under 6 months consult your physician.