Is Sunscreen Really Important Or Not?
Sunscreen is a common word associated with skin protection, especially in the skincare world. It’s like a protective layer that saves our gentle skin from the harsh UV rays.
But the main question is — Do you really need sunscreen on your body and the specific reasons why?
Our body is a temple and skin is a protective coating that works to protect our body from harmful radiation, and that is why we should always use sunscreen to protect us from damage.
Even on cloudy days, our skin can suffer from rays that can lead to skin cancer, hyperpigmentation, and wrinkles with the passage of time. In this article, we will uncover the need for sunscreen and outline the importance of using sunscreen daily and how to protect your skin from the sun.
Should Everyone Wear Sunscreen Every Day? Isn't That Excessive?
Many times we often think about wearing moisturiser for glow only instead of applying sunscreen on cloudy days. However, application of sunscreen on sunny days is mandatory but it should be considered even on cloudy days– it's essential, not excessive.
Sun rays are potent and an exposure of 15 minutes is enough to damage the skin cells that can potentially cause skin cancer over time.
A study indicated that cancers caused by sun exposure are aggressive and fatal if not treated on time.
However, the best thing about skin cancers is that they can be prevented. Dermatologists suggest applying sunscreen to the face, neck chest, ears, hands, and arms is recommended to prevent long-term severe damage from sun rays.
What Is SPF?
The Sun protection factor (SPF) is a measure of the sun's ability to protect the skin against some specific portion of UV light called UVB. The UVB rays are the main reason behind severe sunburns and aggressive skin cancers like basal cell carcinoma. Sunscreen is the best and cheapest way to protect the skin from UVB and UVA rays.
How Do You Choose The Right Sunscreen?
Choosing the right sunscreen is a mandatory step as it will protect the skin. For day-to-day use, choose a sunscreen with an SPF of a minimum of 30. But if you go outside and spend time outdoors, a sunscreen with SPF 60 or more will be suitable. However, many experts explain the two main types of sunscreens i.e.; chemical (UV light filter) and physical (mineral composition) for blocking UV light.
Mineral-based sunscreens are preferred because they protect the skin from a broader spectrum of UV radiation. Also, mineral-based sunscreens are more beneficial for acne-prone and sensitive skin as they cause less or no irritation and skin allergies. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are the main ingredients in the composition of a sunscreen.
How Much Sunscreen Do I Need?
To protect the exposed body parts like the face, neck, arms, and legs, use around 1 ounce of sunscreen that covers the palm completely.
Crucial Reasons To Wear Sunscreen Daily
Sunscreens are life saviors as they seem to be an ordinary cream but they carry exceptional values. Here are some crucial reasons or benefits of wearing sunscreen daily.
1) Reduces the risk of sunburn
Skincare professionals emphasize the need for sunscreen in daily life to prevent severe skin disorders. This might make individuals try anti-aging creams because sun rays are the main source of wrinkles. Even if you spend a few minutes in the direct sun, you can become sunburned without using any sunscreen.
To prevent severe skin disorders, it is advised to refer to a dermatologist and take oral or topical medicines to prevent the damage linked with sunburn.
2) Prevent skin aging
Extreme or continuous sun exposure without any skin protection can damage the elastin, collagen, and epidermal cells. Along with wrinkles on the skin, it can cause pigmentation, discoloration, and even a leathery appearance. Photoaging is quite common in coastal areas as individuals don't prefer sunscreen while sunbathing.
3) Reduces the risk of skin cancer
Applying sunscreen every day even when it is cloudy is the best and most effective way to prevent skin cancer. However, this cancer is preventable easily by using good spf riched sunscreen.
If you are someone who spends most of the time outdoors, you must apply sunscreen every 2 hours to maintain the skin quality.
4) Prevent skin discoloration
Skin discoloration is often irreversible if not treated timely. The areas on the body that appear to be discolored are often referred to as ‘sun spots’ which are usually brown to black in color. This can make any individual look unattractive. So, timely application of sunscreen can periodically help in preventing these spots and skin damage.
Conclusion
Sunrays don't discriminate based on skin tone, they can affect anyone even during cloudy days. Studies have suggested that exposure through a car’s window can enhance the risk of skin cancer. While purchasing sunscreen, always consider a good SPF sunscreen and reapply it every 2 hours if you are outside in the sun.
Moreover, you can also use other protective measures like UPF clothing to reduce sun damage but don't forget to wear sunscreen every day. Add sunscreen as a part of your skincare routine.
