What ingredients in sunscreens provide protection against UV-A1?

A recent study from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center looked at the 29 most popular sunscreens available on Amazon.com and found inadequate protection against UV-A1. UV-A radiation penetrates through window glass; UV-B radiation does not penetrate through window glass. Therefore, one must strongly consider ingredients in sunscreens that provide protection against UV-A. UV-A1 is long range radiation. Ingredients that protect against UV-A1 include zinc oxide. As well, avobenzone protects against UV-A1;however, it is an unstable molecule and benefits from the stabilizing effects of other ingredients, such as octocrylene. Colorescience Sunforgettable SPF 30 contains zinc oxide and is an excellent option to protect against UV-A1.

Posted by Rami K. Batniji, M.D., F.A.C.S.