Say Yes to Sun Protection (and no to skin cancer)

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Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the US. One in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime, and one person dies from melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, every hour. Since exposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays is the most preventable risk factor for skin cancer, protect your skin by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and generously applying sunscreen.

There are two types of sunscreens:

1: Physical – Physical sunscreen works like a shield. It sits on top of the skin, deflecting the sun’s rays. Look for the active ingredients of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Opt for this type if you have sensitive skin. Also, these do not bleach coral reefs, an added bonus.

2: Chemical – Chemical sunscreen works like a sponge absorbing the sun’s rays. Look for one or more of the following active ingredients: oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, and octinoxate. This sunscreen tends to be easier to run into the skin without leaving a white residue but can cause an allergic reaction in sensitive individuals.

If you have concerns about certain sunscreen ingredients, use the information above to choose an option that is right for you. As long as it is Broad-spectrum (meaning protects against both UVA and UVB rays), water-resistant, and has an SPF 30 or higher, it can effectively protect you from the sun. Make sure you reapply every two hours, after swimming, and sweating.

I have very sensitive eczema-prone skin, so I favor the pure physical sunblocks. My favorite is Elta MD’s UV Replenish, which has zinc oxide and titanium dioxide and hyaluronic acid for an added moisturizing benefit.

Stop by our office anytime, Sienna Dermatology located at 7435 Highway 6, Ste. B in Missouri City, Texas, and we can help you pick out the one that is right for you and your family.

Angel Puryear, M.D.

A native Houstonian and graduated from Bellaire High School and Rice University with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. I then attended Texas Tech University School of Medicine where I was elected the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha medical honor society in my junior year. I subsequently completed an internship in Internal Medicine and residency in Dermatology at Texas Tech University and served as Chief Resident during my third year. After residency, I worked in a private practice in North Dallas where I was voted by my peers into D Magazine as a Best Doctor in Collin County for 2016 and 2017. During my free time, I enjoy reading, jogging, and spending time with my husband and two daughters. I am thrilled to be back home in Houston to serve my community.