The sun is an essential source of vitamin D and can improve our mood and overall health. However, overexposure to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause severe skin damage, premature aging, and even skin cancer. Using sunscreen is one of the most effective and easiest ways to protect your skin from UV radiation and prevent skin damage.
UV Radiation and Its Effects on Skin
There are three types of UV lights, UVC is absorbed by the Earth’s atmosphere and does not reach the surface, but UVA and UVB rays can penetrate the skin and cause various forms of skin damage.
UVA radiation is responsible for skin aging, including wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots. As well as when skin exposes to UVA radiation, it will be more prone to skin cancer and decreases the immune system. UVB radiation, on the other hand, is responsible for sunburn, redness, and more severe skin damage.
Why Use Sunscreen?
Sunscreen is a lotion, spray, or gel that contains active ingredients that protect the skin from the sun’s harmful rays. These active ingredients work by either absorbing the UV rays or reflecting them away from the skin. Sunscreens are rated by their sun protection factor (SPF), which indicates the level of protection they provide against UVB radiation.
Using sunscreen is crucial for protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful effects. Sunscreen can help prevent sunburn, skin aging, and skin cancer. It is particularly important for people who spend a lot of time outdoors or have fair skin.
Tips to choose the most appropriate sunscreen for your skin
Selecting the right sunscreen that is suitable for your skin type and needs, is important to avoid any further skin problem! Look at these factors when you buy your sunscreen:
- SPF Rating: The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. However, an SPF of 15 is also effective for everyday use.
- Broad-Spectrum Protection: Look for a sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB radiation.
- Water-Resistant: If you plan to swim or sweat, choose a water-resistant sunscreen that will stay on your skin longer.
- Skin Type: If you have sensitive skin, look for a sunscreen that is free of fragrances, oils, and other irritants.
- Application: Choose a sunscreen that is easy to apply, such as a lotion or spray.
When and How to Use Sunscreen
It’s important to use sunscreen every day, regardless of the weather conditions. UV radiation can penetrate clouds and cause skin damage, even if you can’t see or feel the sun’s rays. And if you are going to swim, or to workout and sweat, consider to reapply it every two hours.
In addition to using sunscreen, it’s essential to take other measures to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. This includes wearing protective clothing, such as hats, sunglasses, and long-sleeved shirts. Also try to avoid tanning beds as they are one of the factors that increase skin cancer, and seek shade during peak sun hours.
In conclusion Sunscreen is a crucial tool for protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. It helps prevent sunburn, skin aging, and skin cancer. Choosing the right sunscreen and using it correctly can help keep your skin healthy and glowing. Remember to use sunscreen every day, reapply it frequently, and take other measures