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Sun Safety and Sunburn Relief
Sun Safety and Sunburn Relief
Sun Safety and Sunburn Relief
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From pool parties to picnics, hiking to biking: everyone loves spending time outdoors on a sunny day. But too much sun can be harmful, and it’s crucial to make sure that when you spend time in the sun, you are protecting your skin.
A suntan results from an activation of the body’s natural defense mechanism against damaging ultraviolet (UV) sun rays. Excessive exposure to UV light can overwhelm the body’s defenses and result in sunburn.
Ultraviolet A (UVA) and Ultraviolet B (UVB) are the two types of solar radiation that can harm your skin. UVB is responsible for sunburns and is partially blocked by the ozone layer. UVA is not absorbed by the ozone and penetrates the skin deeper than UVB.
Sunburn Prevention & Treatment/Remedy Tips
Sunscreens help protect your skin from sunburn by blocking the sun’s harmful UV rays. Too much exposure to UV rays (from sunlight or tanning beds) increases your risk of skin cancer, regardless of age, gender, or race. In fact, about one in five Americans will develop skin cancer at some point in their lives.
If you do get sunburned, follow these steps to relieve symptoms and support healing:
- Decrease inflammation and pain using a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Common options include ibuprofen or naproxen sodium, taken as directed. Adults may use aspirin, but do not give aspirin to children or teens because of the risk of Reye’s syndrome.
- Apply a fragrance-free moisturizing cream or aloe gel to soothe discomfort.
- Take a cool (not cold) shower or bath.
- If blisters appear, keep them covered with dry, sterile bandages to help prevent infection.
- Wear loose, soft cotton clothing to avoid further irritation.
- Stay out of direct sun until your skin heals.
- Avoid topical products containing benzocaine or lidocaine, which can worsen irritation or cause allergic reaction.
Seek medical care if your sunburn leads to blistering over a large area of the body, fever, chills, dehydration, confusion, severe pain, or if you’re feeling generally unwell. These can be signs that your body needs professional care to heal properly.
Most sunscreens available in the United States are marketed as over-the-counter (OTC) drug products. They must follow FDA rules, called the OTC monograph, before they can be sold to consumers. The monograph lists the active ingredients that are allowed, what information must appear on the label (including directions for use), and how products must be tested. Sunscreens that meet these requirements can then be made available on store shelves without a separate FDA approval.
Important Update: Acetaminophen
There’s been a lot of talk recently about misleading claims that taking acetaminophen during pregnancy can cause autism. We’ve pulled together some FAQs and answers to help families.
Learn more and get the facts about acetaminophenSun Protection Factor (SPF) & Sunscreen Types
Sun Protection Factor (SPF) is a measure of how well a sunscreen protects your skin from the kind of radiation (UVB rays) that causes sunburn, damages skin, and may contribute to skin cancer. The higher the SPF, the more protection the sunscreen will provide against UVB rays. SPF does not measure protection from UVA rays.
SPF doesn't tell you how long you can stay in the sun, either. What it does tell you is how much protection you're getting from UVB rays. Sun exposure depends on factors like time of day, location, and sunscreen use, so SPF is about intensity of protection, not minutes in the sun. The SPF scale is not linear, either:
- SPF 15 blocks 93% of UVB rays
- SPF 30 blocks 97% of UVB rays
- SPF 50 blocks 98% of UVB rays
Experts recommend that you use a minimum SPF 30 sunscreen.
A NOTE ABOUT DYE-FREE PRODUCTS: Dye-free medications and supplements are a great option for individuals who prefer or require products without dyes, such as those with allergies, sensitivities, or personal preferences. Importantly, both dye-containing and dye-free options are held to the same rigorous safety and quality standards. If you’re unsure which is right for you or your family, talk to your pharmacist or healthcare provider. They can help you choose the option that best suits your needs.
⏱ See how time affects your SPF
For education purposes only.
Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen
Many sunscreens combine active ingredients to provide “broad-spectrum” protection, which means protection against both UVA and UVB radiation.
UVA rays can cause premature aging of your skin (e.g., wrinkling and age spots). UVB rays can cause your skin to burn. Excessive exposure to UVA or UVB rays can cause skin cancer.
Water Resistant Sunscreen
A “water resistant” sunscreen retains its stated SPF value after a certain time in water or while sweating. FDA only allows the claims ‘Water Resistant (40 min)’ or ‘Very Water Resistant (80 min)’ to be used on sunscreens sold in the United States and does not allow sunscreen products to claim that they are “waterproof.”
"How Much Sunscreen Does My Body Actually Need?"
The standard for sunscreen application is 2mg/cm2 of skin. In practical terms, that translates to approximately 1 ounce (about 30 mL) to cover the exposed skin of an average-sized adult — roughly the amount that fits in a standard shot glass.
In addition, make sure that you reapply your sunscreen every two hours when outdoors, and immediately after swimming or sweating. Toweling off removes sunscreen along with the water, so reapply right after drying.
Active Ingredients and Allowed Levels in Sunscreen Products
Sunscreens use two main types of active ingredients: chemical filters and mineral filters. You may also hear mineral sunscreens called physical sunscreens.
Chemical filters (likeoxybenzone, avobenzone, and octinoxate) sit on the skin and absorb UV rays before they can cause damage. Mineral filters (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) also form a protective layer that absorbs UV rays, but they additionally reflect and scatter them. Both types can protect you well as long as the product is broad-spectrum, water-resistant, and SPF 30 or higher.
When you're comparing labels, it helps to know how the FDA classifies these ingredients. Sunscreens with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are generally recognized as safe and effective (GRASE). A handful of other common chemical filters, including oxybenzone, avobenzone, homosalate, octinoxate, octisalate, octocrylene, and ensulizole are still being studied. The FDA has asked for more data before giving them a final safety sign-off. This doesn't mean these ingredients are unsafe. The FDA still recommends sunscreen as an important part of protecting your skin from the sun.
Here is the full list of currently allowed OTC sunscreen active ingredients and their maximum concentrations:
- Aminobenzoic acid (PABA) (up to 15%)
- Avobenzone (up to 3%)
- Cinoxate (up to 3%)
- Dioxybenzone (up to 3%)
- Ensulizole (up to 4%)
- Homosalate (up to 15%)
- Meradimate (up to 5%)
- Octinoxate (up to 7.5%)
- Octisalate (up to 5%)
- Octocrylene (up to 10%)
- Oxybenzone (up to 6%)
- Padimate O (up to 8%)
- Sulisobenzone (up to 10%)
- Titanium dioxide (up to 25%)
- Trolamine salicylate (up to 12%)
- Zinc oxide (up to 25%)
New Sunscreen Ingredient on the Horizon
In December 2025, the FDA proposed adding bemotrizinol as a new approved sunscreen active ingredient at concentrations up to 6%. This would be the first new sunscreen active ingredient approved in the U.S. in decades. Bemotrizinol is already widely used in sunscreens across Europe and Asia and provides strong broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. A final decision is expected mid-to-late 2026, with products potentially reaching U.S. shelves soon after.
References:
- http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/09/30/AR2005093001998.html
- http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/drug-information/DR602285/DSECTION=precautions-
- http://www.drugs.com/drug-interactions/multivitamin.html
- http://www.naturemade.com/resource-center/articles-and-videos/immune-health/timing-your-vitamins
- http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/912.html
- http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminA-HealthProfessional/
- http://www.prevention.com/food/healthy-eating-tips/your-breakfast-giving-you-cancer
- http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iron-HealthProfessional/
- http://www.ag.ndsu.edu/pubs/yf/foods/fn1607.pdf
- http://www.fda.gov/Food/DietarySupplements/UsingDietarySupplements/ucm110567.htm
Safe Use Tips & Takeaways
Heart Health Takeaways
- Limit your time in the sun, especially when the sun’s rays are most intense (10 a.m. -2 p.m.).
- Wear clothing to cover skin exposed to the sun (e.g., long-sleeved shirts, pants, sunglasses, and wide-brimmed hats).
- Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) value of 30 or higher regularly and as directed.
- Apply sunscreen liberally to all uncovered skin 15 minutes before sun exposure. This allows the sunscreen to have enough time to provide the maximum benefit.
- Reapply at least every two hours. If you are swimming or sweating, it is important to reapply more frequently.
- Always read the Drug Facts label carefully. The label tells you everything you need to know about the sunscreen, including ingredients, how much to use, and when you shouldn’t use it.
- Babies younger than 6 months should be kept out of direct sunlight whenever possible. When outdoors, dress your baby in lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that covers the skin, use a wide-brimmed hat, and keep them in the shade. If those options aren’t possible, parents should ask a healthcare professional or pediatrician about limited sunscreen use on exposed skin.
- Always consult your healthcare provider if you or your child has a skin rash or irritation after applying sunscreen
- Seek medical care if your child’s sunburn is severe or causes blisters, severe pain, fever, chills, dehydration, confusion, or if they feel faint.
What is fluoride?
Fluoride is a natural mineral found in water, soil, and some foods. It strengthens your enamel, repairs early signs of damage, and makes teeth more resistant to acids from bacteria and sugar.
Is fluoride toothpaste still the most effective option, or are fluoride-free formulas just as good?
Fluoride is still the gold standard for cavity protection. Fluoride-free options can clean your teeth, but they don’t offer the same enamel-strengthening power.
Is fluoride safe for daily use?
Yes. When used as directed, fluoride is safe and effective. It’s been trusted and recommended by major health organizations for over 70 years.
How does fluoride actually protect teeth?
It strengthens enamel, repairs early signs of decay through remineralization, and makes teeth more resistant to acids from bacteria and sugary foods.
Are there any risks to using fluoride long-term?
The main risk—especially for young kids—is swallowing too much, which can lead to mild fluorosis (faint white streaks on teeth). Using the right amount prevents this. For parents, supervise brushing to ensure kids spit out the toothpaste and don't swallow it.
At what age should kids start using fluoride toothpaste?
As soon as the first tooth appears!
* Under 3 years: a tiny rice-sized smear
* Ages 3–6+: a pea-sized amount
Supervise brushing so they don’t swallow it.
* Under 3 years: a tiny rice-sized smear
* Ages 3–6+: a pea-sized amount
Supervise brushing so they don’t swallow it.
Is fluoride still safe and recommended for kids with all the claims online?
Yes. A lot of online claims can be confusing, but decades of research show fluoride is safe and strongly recommended for cavity prevention when used properly.
How much fluoride should my child get from toothpaste?
Use age-appropriate amounts and brush twice a day. If your water isn’t fluoridated, ask your dentist about additional options.
How do I know which kids’ toothpaste claims are real and not just marketing?
Check for the ADA Seal of Acceptance and choose brands your dentist recommends.
Do fluoride-free or “natural” toothpastes protect kids from cavities?
They can help clean teeth, but they don’t provide the same cavity protection as fluoride toothpastes.
Are fluoride-free toothpastes just as effective for adults?
Not for cavity prevention. Fluoride-free toothpastes can help with cleaning and freshening breath, but they do not protect against cavities the way fluoride does. For adults, or anyone who is prone to cavities, fluoride toothpaste remains the most effective option for preventing tooth decay.
Do fluoride alternatives like nano-hydroxyapatite (nHAp) make a difference?
Yes—nHAp can help with sensitivity and early enamel repair. But it hasn’t matched fluoride’s cavity-prevention strength in studies.
How do I compare fluoride vs. fluoride-free options if I have sensitivity or enamel wear?
Fluoride is best for strengthening enamel and cavity prevention. nHAp may help with sensitivity and enamel repair. Some people benefit from using both in a balanced routine. Talk to your dentist about what's right for your specific needs.
Are whitening toothpastes safe to use with fluoride or fluoride-free products?
Most are safe but can be abrasive. Choose gentle formulas and avoid using them every single day—especially for kids.
What should I look for when choosing an OTC toothpaste?
Pick products with proven active ingredients (like fluoride), check for the ADA Seal of Acceptance, and avoid unnecessary additives or sweeteners.
Does fluoride affect hormones or the brain?
No credible scientific evidence shows fluoride at levels used in toothpaste or properly fluoridated water (0.7 mg/L) disrupts hormones or causes neurodevelopmental harm.
What should I do if my community stops adding fluoride to the water?
Use fluoridated toothpaste, consider fluoride rinses (for ages 6+), and talk to a dentist about fluoride supplements for kids (if needed).
Do fluoride supplements have side effects?
They’re safe when used under dental guidance and typically recommended for children in areas without fluoridated water or at high risk for cavities.
What’s the best way to make sure I’m getting enough fluoride?
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, drink fluoridated tap water if available, and ask your dentist for personalized advice if you’re cavity-prone.
Are heavy metals in supplements dangerous?
Why do plant-based protein powders tend to have more heavy metals than whey protein?
Plant-based proteins come from crops like peas and rice that absorb trace metals from soil as they grow. When concentrated into powder, those traces concentrate too. Whey comes from milk, which goes through a different biological process and shows lower heavy metal levels. This reflects a difference in source material, not a safety problem.
Is there a safe level of lead in supplements?
No known safe level of lead has been identified, so the goal is to keep exposure as low as possible. Since lead builds up in the body over time, extra care is appropriate for children and people who are pregnant. Safety limits for these groups are set very conservatively. Manufacturers are required to test their products for heavy metals, and some go a step further with independent third-party testing. Consumers can contact manufacturers directly to ask about their testing practices.
Is it safe to eat fish if it contains mercury?
Yes. Since seafood is the main source of mercury exposure, health experts, including the FDA and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), provide guidance to help everyone make safe and healthy choices. This advice is especially useful for people who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or feeding young children, to help them pick fish that are both nutritious and lower in mercury—such as salmon, tilapia, shrimp, and canned light tuna.
Does the FDA regulate heavy metals in supplements?
Yes, the FDA has authority over dietary supplements and can take action when a product is unsafe. For example, the FDA uses Interim Reference Levels (IRLs) for lead as benchmarks to evaluate potential health risks in food and dietary supplements.
What does a Prop 65 warning on a supplement label actually mean?
It means the product contains a listed substance above California's disclosure threshold. It is a legal notification requirement, not a safety verdict. Prop 65 thresholds are set conservatively, often 1,000 times below any level linked to observed harm. It does not mean the product violates federal safety standards.
Are organic supplements lower in heavy metals?
Not necessarily. Organic certification covers things like pesticides and fertilizers, but it doesn't control what's naturally in the soil or how a product is made. An organic plant grown in soil with arsenic or cadmium will still absorb those metals. Organic is a good farming standard, but it is not a reliable sign of lower heavy metal levels.
How do I know if my supplement has been tested for heavy metals?
By law, supplement manufacturers are required to test or verify that their products meet quality and safety specifications, including limits on contaminants such as heavy metals when appropriate. The FDA reviews these records during inspections. Some companies go a step further and use independent third-party re-testing for added assurance. You can always contact the manufacturer directly to ask about their testing and quality practices.
Should children or pregnant people avoid supplements because of heavy metals?
Not automatically, but extra care is reasonable. Safety guidelines for these groups are set very carefully because their bodies can be more sensitive to certain exposures. For lead in particular, where no amount has been shown to be safe, the goal is always to keep exposure as low as possible. Children and pregnant individuals should take only supplements recommended by a healthcare provider.
What should I look for when buying a supplement I can trust?
Start with established brands sold through reputable retailers, not unverified online sellers. Be skeptical of claims like "pure" or "heavy metal free" unless there is independent testing to back them up. When in doubt, don't hesitate to contact the manufacturer directly to ask for their heavy metals test results.