• 80% of lifetime sun exposure occurs prior to age 18
  
  
• 1.3 million new cases of skin cancer projected for the U.S. in 2000
  
  
• 3% of childhood cancers are skin cancers
  
  
• More than one death per hour in the U.S.
  
  
• Skin cancer kills more women in their late 20s and early 30s than breast cancer
  
  
• 93% of parents do not correctly use sunscreen on their children
  
  
• 33% of adolescents never use sunscreen
  

• Avoid direct exposure between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. and especially 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
  
  
• Wear proper clothing: a broad-rimmed hat, tight knit shirt, sunglasses
  
  
• Use a 15 or higher SPF sunscreen:
  
  
  • Put on before going outdoors
    
    
  • Apply generously - one ounce per application for adults
    
    
  • Re-apply every two hours or after swimming or excessive perspiration
    
    
  • Be sure to cover nose, ears, shoulders, feet, and lips
    
    
  • Use a sunscreen that blocks long UVA
    
    
  • Remember that many surfaces like sand and snow reflect UV rays and can shorten the time period until skin damage occurs.
    
    
  • Avoid tanning beds
    

When it comes to sunscreens, not all are created equal. In fact, the vast majority of available sunscreen products do not block long UVA radiation. The term "broad spectrum," so often seen on sunscreens, actually means very little. The FDA is working towards more relevant labeling laws, but these will not be in effect for several years. The labeled SPF number is a measure of protection against only UVB and some short UVA, but not the long UVA. These long UVA rays are now known to cause photo-aging and are likely involved in the more aggressive types of skin cancer, such as melanoma.

Chances are, even if your patients use a sunscreen, the sunscreen they are buying is not providing the protection it should.

Applied Therapeutics^® manufactures state-of-the-art sunscreen products. SunSmart^® Sun Protection products are formulated using the most advanced active ingredient available, Z-COTE^® transparent zinc oxide. SunSmart^® sunscreens block both UVB and UVA, including long UVA rays. In April, 2001, the American Academy of Dermatology made its recommendation to the FDA regarding criteria for Broad Spectrum UVA labeling. SunSmart^® sunscreens already exceed the AAD's proposed criteria. Additionally, SunSmart^® sunscreens do not contain any of the sunscreen chemicals most often associated with adverse reactions. They are gentle, non-allergenic, and waterproof.

SunSmart^® products contain Z-COTE^® Transparent Zinc Oxide - the most advanced sun protection ingredient available.