Unlock Youthful Radiance: Why Is Sunscreen Important For Skin
SPF, or sun protector file is mainly the amount of protection a sunscreen can protect a skin from UVB rays without getting burned. The higher the SPF number indicates the sunscreen the better it is at protecting skin against sunburns.
For example, SPF 50+ can offer better protection than SPF 30+ and the sunscreen should provide UVA/UVB protection. However, sunscreen should be reapplied every 2-3 hours when exposed to sunlight or after swimming.
The difference between UVA and UVB
UVA is for ageing.
UVB is for burning.
When do you need sunscreen?
It’s essential to apply sunscreen all year round even during cloudy rainy days because mostly the skin can still be exposed to UVA rays.
How do you apply sunscreen?
It’s important to apply sunscreen after moisturizing or hydrating cremes to provide better protection.
What’s the difference between physical and chemical sunscreen?
Physical sunscreen or mineral sunscreen is made with mineral ingredients like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide that never penetrate the skin barrier and reflect the sun’s rays. On the other hand, chemical sunscreen has active ingredients that include avobenzone,octinoxate, and oxybenzone. These ingredients can soak into the skin without leaving a white cast or residue.
Should I use physical sunscreen or chemical sunscreen?
Chemical sunscreen can provide better protection against UV rays and it’s well absorbed by the skin. It’s not recommended for children and people with severe skin conditions like psoriasis and skin inflammation. It suits also oily skin.
However, physical sunscreen has a thick consistency and it sits on top of the skin only. It is suitable for children and people with sensitive dry skin.
In a nutshell, both chemical and physical sunscreens are safe to apply on the skin as long as they don’t irritate the skin.
How do you choose the right sunscreen?
Make sure your sunscreen offers the following:
- It offers broad-spectrum ( UVA and UVB).
- It has an SPF of 30 or higher.
- Water-resistant.
- Oil-free and paraben-free ( to avoid clogged pores).
- Fragrance-free.
- Respect the expiration date of the sunscreen.
Here are the most important reasons to wear sunscreen daily.
Reduce the risk of sunburn
To prevent sunburn and sun damage it’s necessary to apply sunscreen 15 minutes before you expose yourself to direct sunlight. Repeat the process every 2 hours. Be generous with your sunscreen lotion and apply it over your body.
Reduce the risk of skin cancer
The use of sunscreen protects skin cells from harmful ultraviolet rays but that’s not enough, try to avoid exposing yourself during the sun’s peak hours between 10 am to 4 pm when the UV is at its highest.
Prevent signs of ageing
Wearing sunscreen can slow down signs of ageing and prevent skin pigmentation as well.
Prevent skin inflammation
Skin inflammation and redness are common sun traps that are caused when the skin is exposed for long hours to the sun without protection. It’s better to apply physical sunscreen throughout the day on sensitive skin to prevent redness and skin inflammation.
