Is Your Sunscreen Protecting You?

If you're going to protect yourself from sun damage, but still spend time in the sun – not secluded all day under a pop-up tent, wide-brimmed hat, etc. – then you're going to be slathering plenty of sunscreen on your entire body. But shouldn't that sunscreen provide the protection (sun protection factor: SPF) from ultraviolet radiation it claims to provide?

According to a report from Consumer Reports, "13 of the 35 sunscreen lotions that were tested had an SPF less than 30, despite all claiming to be at least SPF 30. This included two of the 18 sprays and three of the eight face sunscreens." According to Consumer Reports, these findings mirror previous findings, suggesting many people may have been exposed to considerably more UV radiation than they thought in recent years.

As you might expect, some of the worst offenders – for example, Banana Boat Kids Tear-Free, Sting-Free Lotion and CVS brand Kids Sun Lotion each had a stated SPF of 50, but according to Consumer Reports, offered only SPF 8 protection – were quick to counter the claims - but who should we believe? Probably not the sunscreen companies who make millions from product sales.

 Remember, the best protection against UV exposure is to avoid direct sunlight for more than 10-15 minutes a day (necessary to promote vitamin D production in the body), particularly during the midday hours (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.). And if you absolutely must be in the sun, don't just rely on sunscreen; wear a hat, avoid prolonged sun exposure, and wear protective clothing whenever the temperature allows. Talk to your doctor for more information.

For more information on health and safety please visit www.toyourhealth.com and the Ontario Chiropractic Association web site at www.chiropractic.on.ca or call 1877-327-2273. Dr. George I. Traitses of Infinite Health practices traditional chiropractic, advanced nutrition and anti aging therapy and has been serving the Toronto and Markham communities since 1981. You can reach him at 416-499-5656 or www.infinite-health.com

or the longer version

Doctors of chiropractic are specialists, who provide drug free, hands on treatment that targets the source of pain. Studies show that chiropractic treatment is increasingly recognized as one of the safest and most effective health care solutions. Chiropractic care can be used successfully to treat injuries resulting from automobile accidents and sports injuries. For more prevention and wellness, or to find a doctor of chiropractic near you, go to the Patient Information section of the Ontario Chiropractic Association Website at www.chiropractic.on.ca or call 1-877-327-2273. More health information can be found at www.toyourhealth.com.
Dr. George I. Traitses of Infinite Health practices traditional chiropractic, advanced nutrition and anti aging therapy and has been serving the Toronto and Markham communities since 1981. You can reach him at 416-499-5656 or www.infinite-health.com

Dr. George I. Traitses
webmaster@infinite-health.com
Infinite Health / Secretropin Canada
Office: 416 499 5656  Fax: 905 201 6811
2914 Sheppard Ave. Suite 206 Scarborough, Ont. L3P 4E1
90 Fincham Ave., Markham, Ont, L3P 4E1