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Physical sunscreen to prevent sunburn

Healthwise
By Jan Nissl, RN, BS

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Physical sunscreens or sunblocks, such as zinc oxide, are usually thick white or colored cream. Sunblocks have an SPF of 12 or higher and prevent the skin from being exposed to the sun's ultraviolet rays. They are useful for high-risk areas such as the nose, lips, and shoulders and may be used on babies, though babies under 6 months old should be kept out of the sun.

Credits

Author Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Michele Cronen
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Primary Medical Reviewer William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Alexander H. Murray, MD, FRCPC - Dermatology
Last Updated December 28, 2007
Last Updated: 12/28/2007