[helloos]

Not sure if this is the right place to put this

From SLE Foundation:

I thought this would be helpful:

Protect yourself from a lupus flare!

• Apply broad-spectrum UVA-UVB protective sunscreen every day of the year. Choose a product with a Sun Protection Factor of 30 or higher and which contains avobenzone (Parasol 1789), titanium dioxide, and/or zinc oxide, as these provide the broadest protection against both UVA and UVB. A newer ingredient, mexoryl, is available in some sunscreens and is very effective against UVA. Slather on before makeup, and no less than 10 minutes before going outside.
• Limit unnecessary outdoor activities—especially when the sun tends to be at its most intense between 10 AM and 3 PM—and invest in special sun-protective clothing and wide-brimmed hats.
• To minimize exposure to UVA rays, place plastic over window glass and encase halogen lights and fluorescent bulbs in plastic casings. Use a polarizing guard over your computer screen. Flat screens, such as on laptops, do not require this precaution.
• Check about the added risk for photosensitivity when taking certain medicines such as diuretics, antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, and birth control pills.

Andrew G. Franks, Jr., M.D., FACP
Summer 2008

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[Katharine]

Yep Paula, very useful as I think it just about sums it up

thanks

 

[Clare.T]

Thanks for this Paula ! It's very handy to have this excellent uptodate summing up.
And from the brilliant Dr Franks who was my doctor when I was in NYC and transformed my life, to whom I am for ever grateful. My Lupus Hero !
In Europe the UVA has star ratings, 1-5 - look for the highest of both.
I think it is La Roche-Posay Anthelios that has the Mexoryl in.
It isn't on the UK prescription sunscreen list but the Aussie Sunsense is and also E45. Pharmacists can give the full list.

Cheers
Clare