Exploring Solar Creams for Skin Protection
Sunscreen and UV Beads: An Educational Activity
Welcome to this engaging and informative activity where students delve into the world of UV beads to investigate the efficacy of various sunscreen lotions against UV radiation.
Why UV Beads?
UV beads are a fun and educational tool that change color when exposed to ultraviolet light. Once the exposure ceases, the beads return to their clear, colorless state. This activity aims to help students grasp the connection between UV rays from the sun and sunburn, understand how our skin can be protected through the use of sunscreen, and explore the Sun Protection Factor (SPF).
Learning Objectives
By the end of this activity, students should be able to:
- explain the link between UV rays from the sun and sunburn
- discuss how our skin can be protected through the use of sunscreen
- define the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) and demonstrate its relevance to different levels of protection
Download the Word file for:
- Introduction/background notes
- Materials needed
- Procedure
- Extension ideas
- Student Handout
Investigating Sunscreens
In this part of the activity, students will test different sunscreens using UV beads to observe their levels of UV protection.
UV Radiation & Skin Cancer
It's essential to note that excessive UV exposure can lead to negative consequences, including skin cancer. Skin cancer comes in various forms, such as melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma, all associated with UV exposure. For more information on UV exposure risks, New Zealand skin cancer rates, children's exposure to UV, and skin cancer's risk factors, including sunbeds, explore the related content provided.
Related Activities
If students are seeking more ways to engage with UV beads, consider the following related activities: UV Bead Items and Investigating UV Intensity. You can also find a comprehensive unit plan covering this aspect of UV protection.
Where to Purchase UV Beads
UV beads can be easily purchased from a variety of sources, such as:
- www.deltaed.co.nz/product/ultraviolet-detection-beads-pk-250
- www.kesco.co.nz/product/SER1139926A
- www.electroflash.co.nz/products/view/603
Enrichment Data: Understanding Sunscreen Effectiveness
To fully appreciate the role of sunscreen in protecting against UV rays, it is helpful to understand the following factors:
- Broad-spectrum sunscreens provide protection against both UVA and UVB rays. While UVA rays contribute to skin aging, skin cancer, and long-term DNA damage, UVB rays primarily cause sunburn and are associated with skin cancer risk. Chemical sunscreens absorb UV light and convert it to heat, while mineral sunscreens block or scatter UV rays before they penetrate the skin. Evidence suggests mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are effective and generally safer for the body and the environment.
- Higher SPF values (e.g., SPF 50, SPF 100) provide incremental, although minimal, added benefit beyond SPF 50. Additionally, many sunscreens are less effective than their SPF claims due to factors like improper application, breakdown in sunlight, or the use of chemical boosters that artificially inflate SPF values. It's worth noting that U.S. sunscreens, on average, allow more UVA to pass through than European products. Only a minority of U.S. sunscreens meet stricter European standards for UVA protection.
- To reduce the risk of skin cancer caused by UV exposure, dermatologists recommend using effective, broad-spectrum sunscreens, particularly those with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Proper application and reapplication are vital for maximizing protection.
In this activity, students will discover the crucial role of sunscreen in protecting their skin from harmful UV radiation and skin conditions like sunburn, skin aging, and skin cancer, as they test different sunscreens with UV beads. It's essential to consider the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) and the ingredients of sunscreens, with mineral-based sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide often being more effective and safer alternatives.
