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08 October 2008

Answer to Question #407 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"

Category: Suntanning

The following question was answered by an expert in the appropriate field:

You gave the chemical names for UVA blockers (see Question #267). What are the names for UVB blockers?

There are many products one can buy to help block UVB radiation. Most of these products have a sun protection factor (SPF) associated with it. In fact, the SPF number on sunscreen products only reflect the product's screening ability for UVB. At present there is no SPF rating for UVA protection. Compounds such as para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA), PABA esters (composed of glycerol PABA, pentyl dimethyl PABA, octyl dimethyl PABA), benzophenones, cinnamates, salicylates, anthranilates, and titanium dioxide can be used, separately or in combination, to block UVB. Also keep in mind that wearing wide-brimmed hats and protective clothing and avoiding the sun can and should be used to block UVB. Additional information about this topic can be found at Ask Yahoo. Clyde E. Moss

Answer posted on 22 November 2000. The information and material posted on this Web site is intended as general reference information only. Specific facts and circumstances may alter the concepts and applications of materials and information described herein. The information provided is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be relied upon in the absence of such professional advice specific to whatever facts and circumstances are presented in any given situation. Answers are correct at the time they are posted on the Web site. Be advised that over time, some requirements could change, new data could be made available, or Internet links could change. For answers that have been posted for several months or longer, please check the current status of the posted information prior to using the responses for specific applications.