Cetaphil
What is CETAPHIL?
(CETAPHIL) Sunscreens are used to protect the skin from the harmful effects of the sun. They help to prevent sunburn and premature aging (such as wrinkles, leathery skin). Sunscreens also help to decrease the risk of skin cancer and also of sunburn-like skin reactions (sun sensitivity) caused by some medications (including tetracyclines, sulfa drugs, phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine). The active ingredients in sunscreens work either by absorbing the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation, preventing it from reaching the deeper layers of the skin, or by reflecting the radiation. Wearing sunscreen does not mean that you can stay out longer in the sun. Sunscreens cannot protect against all of the sun's radiation. There are various types of sunscreens available in many forms (such as cream, lotion, gel, stick, spray, lip balm). See the Notes section for information about selecting a sunscreen.
How should I use CETAPHIL?
Sunscreens are for use on the skin only. Follow all directions on the product package. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed skin 30 minutes before sun exposure. As a general guide, use 1 ounce (30 grams) to cover your entire body. Reapply the sunscreen after swimming or sweating or drying off with a towel or if it has rubbed off. If you are outside for long periods, reapply sunscreen every 2 hours. If you are using the lip balm form, apply to the lip area only. The spray form is flammable. If using the spray, avoid smoking when applying this medication and do not use or store it near heat or open flame. When applying sunscreen to the face, be careful to avoid contact with the eyes. If the sunscreen gets in your eyes, rinse thoroughly with water. Use cautiously or avoid use on irritated skin. Do not use sunscreen on infants younger than 6 months unless the doctor directs you to do so. It is best for infants to stay out of the sun and wear protective clothing (such as hats, long sleeves/pants) when outdoors. If you develop a serious sunburn, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take CETAPHIL?
Before using a sunscreen, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to any of its ingredients (such as aminobenzoic acid/PABA); or to some types of anesthetic drugs (such as benzocaine, tetracaine); or to sulfa drugs; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
What may interact with CETAPHIL?
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
What if I miss a dose of CETAPHIL?
Apply sunscreens generously and often when outdoors.
What side effects may I notice from receiving CETAPHIL?
Some sunscreen products (such as those containing aminobenzoic acid or para-aminobenzoic acid/PABA) may stain clothing. Some ingredients of sunscreens can cause the skin to become more sensitive. If a sunscreen causes redness or irritation, wash it off and stop using it. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about using another sunscreen product with different ingredients. If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Where should I keep CETAPHIL?
Store at room temperature away from heat and light. Refer to the storage information printed on the package. Do not use a product after the expiration date on the container. If there is no expiration date, it is recommended that you replace sunscreens every year because over time they may lose the ability to protect you from the sun. If you have any questions about storage, ask your pharmacist. Keep all medications away from children and pets. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.