Elizabeth Grimes: slathers on sunscreen while laying out by the pool. Auburn students will have to be aware of the additions of UVA ratings for sunscreens when making their selection. Lindsey Davidson / PHOTO EDITOR
New sun screen ratings are targeting harmful UVA rays, in addition to the SPF ratings for UVB rays.
Sunburn. Suntan. Sun screen. These words are synonymous with the summer months, and they all have one common factor: the sun.
The sun is the center of our universe; we would not have much of anything without it, including skin cancer. That is why the Food and Drug Administration is issuing new ratings for all sun screens.
Sure, consumers will still see the usual SPF rating, but in addition to that will be a star rating.
Why?
Because SPF ratings only protect users from UVB rays, which cause sunburns. What is missing is the protection from UVA rays, which are responsible for suntans. Both types of rays, however, are partners in skin damage and skin cancer, according to www.foxnews.com. The new star rating will deliver protection from UVA rays.
Julia Lucas, a senior in accounting, was not aware of the difference in rays.
“I had no idea about UVA rays,” Lucas said. “I have always just looked out for UVB. I will definitely consider the new ratings.”
According to www.foxnews.com, dermatologists confirm most skin cancers and premature signs of aging are caused by UVA rays.
Beth Storey, a junior in public relations, said she usually applies tanning oil with SPF 15 when out in the sun, but uses at least SPF 30 for just her face. Storey said the new star ratings for sun screens will benefit consumers.
“I think it will be helpful,” Storey said. “I think it will help guide people to the exact screen that they are looking for.”
Amy Rutherford, a senior in zoology, said the new ratings will make people think more about their sun screen purchases.
“I think it is going to freak people out to begin with because we have been focusing on just SPF for so long,” Rutherford said. “I think it is a good idea because it is going to give you a more accurate rating of your protection.”
Rutherford said she knows the facts correlating the sun and skin cancer and applies sun screen when she knows she will be outdoors for an extended period of time.
“I’m a pale-skinned brunette, so I definitely wear sun screen,” Rutherford said.
Lucas said she is aware of the dangers of going without the protection of sun screen, but does not wear it as often as she should.
“I wear sun screen sometimes,” Lucas said. “I should wear it more often than not, but if I want any amount of color on my skin, I only go outside with maybe SPF 15.”
According to www.foxnews.com, some sun screen brands are already carrying the star rating, but all brands will not be required to carry it until next year.
In the meantime, people spending time outdoors should know basic tips on decreasing sun exposure.
One tip is to reapply sun screen because once is not enough, especially when perspiring or in the water; another is to wear protective clothing, such as a brimmed hat that can help decrease exposure to your face and shoulders.
When shopping for sun screens, look for brands containing ingredients like helioplex, titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, because these provide the best protection.
“I’m a pale-skinned brunette, so I definitely wear sun screen,” Rutherford said.
Lucas said she is aware of the dangers of going without the protection of sun screen, but does not wear it as often as she should.
“I wear sun screen sometimes,” Lucas said. “I should wear it more often than not, but if I want any amount of color on my skin, I only go outside with maybe SPF 15.”
According to www.foxnews.com, some sun screen brands are already carrying the star rating, but all brands will not be required to carry it until next year.
In the meantime, people spending time outdoors should know basic tips on decreasing sun exposure.
One tip is to reapply sun screen because once is not enough, especially when perspiring or in the water; another is to wear protective clothing, such as a brimmed hat that can help decrease exposure to your face and shoulders.
When shopping for sun screens, look for brands containing ingredients like helioplex, titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, because these provide the best protection.
