From the Guidelines
International sunscreens can offer superior protection compared to those available in the United States, primarily because they contain newer UV filters that are not yet FDA-approved. European and Asian sunscreens often include ingredients like Tinosorb S, Tinosorb M, Mexoryl SX, and Mexoryl XL, which provide broader spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays 1. These filters are photostable, meaning they don't break down as quickly in sunlight, and they often have less white cast and better textures, making them more pleasant to use. The European Union and many Asian countries have approved these newer filters after extensive safety testing, while the FDA approval process for new sunscreen ingredients has been slower.
Key Considerations for Sunscreen Protection
- Proper application is crucial, using about 1/4 teaspoon for the face and reapplying every two hours 1
- The specific formulation of the product and its SPF rating are more important than the country of origin
- Look for broad-spectrum products with SPF 30-50 for optimal sun protection
- Be aware of the expiration date and potential allergies to sunscreen ingredients, such as benzophenone-3 and dibenzoyl methanes 1
Reducing Skin Cancer Risk
- Avoiding direct exposure to midday sun (between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.) can reduce exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays 1
- Covering skin exposed to the sun with protective clothing, such as broad-brimmed hats, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and sunglasses, can also reduce skin cancer risk
- Using sunscreen as a complementary measure, in addition to other methods of sun protection, can help reduce the risk of skin cancer 1
From the Research
International Sunscreen Protection
- The provided studies do not directly compare international sunscreens to determine if they offer superior protection 2, 3, 4, 5.
- However, the studies suggest that broad-spectrum sunscreens, which protect against both UVB and UVA radiation, provide better protection against photoaging and immunosuppression than sunscreens that only protect against UVB radiation 2, 3, 4.
- The US FDA has approved filters that provide protection against UVB radiation and short-wavelength UVA radiation, but there is a lack of approved filters that provide protection against long UVA (> 370 nm) and visible light 2.
- Some studies have shown that sunscreens with high UVA protection factors can prevent UV-induced immunosuppression and photoaging 4.
- The use of inorganic sunscreens has been shown to reduce the absorbed radiation dose and alter image quality in radiographic images 5.
Key Findings
- Broad-spectrum sunscreens provide better protection against photoaging and immunosuppression than sunscreens that only protect against UVB radiation 4.
- Inorganic sunscreens can reduce the absorbed radiation dose and alter image quality in radiographic images 5.
- The US FDA has a limited number of approved filters that provide protection against long UVA (> 370 nm) and visible light 2.
- Sunscreens with high UVA protection factors can prevent UV-induced immunosuppression and photoaging 4.