Sun protective factor (SPF) has been established to inform consumers of the degree or protection that each product can give them against the harmful burning effects of the sun.  The higher the SPF value (1-15 and now up to 70+), the greater the degree of protection over unprotected skin.  A product with an SPF level of 15 means that the consumer's skin will be protected 15 times greater than the unprotected skin.

• Apply sufficient amounts of products to all exposed areas at least 30 minutes prior to exposure
• Reapply after swimming or excessive sweating
• Do not use sunscreens with SPF levels of two or three on children two years of age or less without consulting a physician
• Do not use sunscreens on infants less than 6 months old without consulting with a physician
• Avoid contact with eyes
• Do not use products with an alcohol base on inflamed or burned skin
• Discontinue use if skin irritation occurs
• PABA products may stain clothing (yellow)
• Do not use PABA products if patient is allergic to: PABA, PABA esters, medications such as benzocaine, procaine, thiazides, sulfa drugs, sulfonylureas or dyes such as aniline
• Avoid prolonged exposure to sun and tanning lamps

POISON IVY, POISON OAK & POISON SUMAC

These plants -the "poison three" - account for most cases of contact dermatitis.  Over half of the population is allergic to them.  The allergy can develop at any time in a person's life.

The rash you get from the "poison three" is caused by a chemical in the plant's oil.  The oil is present in the leaves, roots, and stems.  It can cause a rash even when the plant is dead.  It can also be transferred by clothing or a pet that has touched the plant, or by smoke and ash from a burning plant.

The rash usually develops from five hours to two days after exposure.  It may last two to three weeks.  Contrary to popular belief, fluid from the blisters cannot spread the rash to another part of your body or to anyone else.  Only contact with the plant's oil will cause the rash.

If you make contact with one of these "untouchable" plants and develop a rash, redness, blisters, swelling, burning, or itching:

• Remove contaminated clothing
• Wash affected area of skin with soap and water
• If rash is mild, our pharmacist can recommend an OTC product
• If reaction is troublesome, or if you have had previous severe reactions in similar situations, seek medical care immediately.