7 Healthcast: SPF

We all like to soak up the sun, but it's very important to use sunscreen.

With all the products out there, some touting sun protection factor's of 70, 80, even 100... How do you decide which is best?

You may be surprised, but some doctors say higher SPF's doesn't always mean better protection.

Dr. Mat Avram, MGH, dermatology
"It seems like sunscreen companies are getting higher and higher SPF numbers, and what I point out to patients is that the differences when you get to those higher numbers is insignificant."

In fact, what matters more is how you use it.

Dr. Mat Avram, MGH, dermatology
"What's really important to point out to patients is actually the amount of sunscreen and the frequency that you put on is more important than the number of SPF."

So the question is, how much is enough??

Dr. Mat Avram, MGH, dermatology
"You should use enough sunscreen to fill a shot glass, that’s one full ounce , most patients put on far less and it gives them a false sense of security"

Some beach goers we talked to were shocked:

"We have to put a shot glass of that on? No way!"

"This much? Definitely not!"

"Certainly not that much, I probably should use more, but I don't".

Bottom line, doctors say not enough sunscreen means not enough protection.

Dr. Mat Avram, MGH, dermatology
"So for example, if your using an SPF of 50, and your only applying it about half as much as your supposed to, then your really only getting an SPF of 7!

So be smart and slather up!

Dr. Mat Avram, MGH, dermatology
"You may be causing yourself more harm than good by feeling that putting on a little amount of SPF100 at the beginning of the day is going to protect you,. because in fact it may not."

Doctors also say it's important to remember that sunscreen is not just for summer.You should use it all year round. If you are confused as to which one is right for you, consult a physician or dermatologist.

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