Now that summer is approaching, protection from the sun’s ultraviolet rays is very important. According to Adam Hessel, M.D. of Buckeye Dermatology, “sunscreens are very good at blocking the sun’s burning rays called UVB. However, the sunscreens currently available in the United States only partially block the sun’s tanning rays called UVA. You will notice that you will still gradually tan when using sunscreens with an SPF of 100.” Better tanning ray blocking agents are currently available in Europe, but these agents are not approved yet by the FDA in the United States. Until these newer sunscreen ingredients are available in the United States, Dr. Hessel recommends using wide brim hats, sun glasses, and protective clothing in addition to sunscreens with an SPF of at least 30.

Dr. Adam Hessel is a Board certified Dermatologist and Dermatopathologist at Buckeye Dermatology serving the Columbus, Ohio and Central Ohio area with offices in Dublin, Grove City and Springfield, Ohio.  Dr. Hessel also has a faculty appointment at The Ohio State University College of Medicine.