5-minute Read To Tell You All You Need to Know About The Importance of Sunscreen for Skin Health

Sunscreen works by creating a barrier between the skin and the sun's UV rays, absorbing or reflecting the rays and preventing them from penetrating the skin and causing damage Regular use of sunscreen can significantly reduce the risk of skin cancer and other long-term damage.

1. Why is sunscreen important in protecting skin health?

Wearing sunscreen is crucial for several reasons to protect our skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Here are some key reasons why wearing sunscreen is important:

• Prevention of Sunburn: Sunburn is a visible sign of skin damage caused by overexposure to UVB rays. Sunscreen helps to prevent sunburn by absorbing or reflecting UV radiation before it penetrates the skin.
• Reducing the Risk of Skin Cancer: Prolonged exposure to UV radiation is a major risk factor for the development of skin cancers, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Regular use of sunscreen can significantly reduce this risk.
• Preventing Premature Aging: UVA rays contribute to premature aging of the skin, causing wrinkles, fine lines, and loss of skin elasticity. Sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection helps to prevent these signs of aging by blocking UVA radiation.
• Protection Against UV-Related Skin Conditions: UV radiation can exacerbate certain skin conditions, such as rosacea and discoloration. Sunscreen helps manage these conditions by providing a barrier against harmful UV rays.
• Maintaining Even Skin Tone: Sunscreen helps prevent the development of sunspots, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone caused by exposure to UV radiation.
• Preserving Collagen and Elastin: UV radiation can break down collagen and elastin fibers in the skin, leading to sagging and a loss of skin firmness. Sunscreen helps preserve these structural proteins, promoting healthier and more resilient skin.
• Preventing Eye Damage: Sunscreen applied near the eyes or the use of specialized sunscreens for the eye area can protect against UV damage that may contribute to cataracts and other eye issues.
• Minimizing the Impact of UV on Immune Function: Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can suppress the immune system in the skin. Sunscreen helps mitigate this effect, supporting the skin's ability to defend against infections and other skin-related issues.

2. How does sunscreen work?

Sunscreen works by containing chemical or physical filters that absorb or reflect UV radiation. Here are the two main types of sunscreens:

• Chemical (organic) sunscreens: These sunscreens contain organic compounds that absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat, which is then released from the skin. Common chemical filters include avobenzone, octocrylene, and octinoxate.
• Physical (inorganic) sunscreens: These sunscreens contain mineral ingredients, such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, that sit on the skin's surface and act as a physical barrier, reflecting and scattering UV radiation away from the skin. When you apply sunscreen to your skin, it forms a protective layer that absorbs or reflects the UV rays, preventing them from penetrating the deeper layers of the skin. This helps reduce the risk of sunburn, premature aging, and the development of skin cancers caused by prolonged exposure to UV radiation.

3. How to choose the right sunscreen for your needs

Choosing the right sunscreen for your skin needs is essential to ensure effective protection against UV rays. Here are the factors to consider when choosing your sunscreen:

• Skin type and sensitivity

Your skin type can influence the type of sunscreen you need. If you have fair or sensitive skin, you may need sunscreen products with more protection or milder ingredients. People with dark skin also need sun protection, although their skin may be more resistant to the effects of UV rays.

• Age and level of sun exposure

Sun protection needs may vary based on age and level of sun exposure. Children and the elderly may need more protection due to increased susceptibility to skin damage. It is also important to take into account the intensity of the sun and the duration of exposure.

• Outdoor activities and water resistance

If you plan to be active outdoors or in the water, use sunscreen that offers waterproof and sweat-resistant protection. It's also important to reapply sunscreen frequently if you're out in the sun for a long period of time.
Also, if you will in the ocean or by the beach, opt for a reef-safe sunscreen to protect the coral reefs from some of the chemicals, present in sunscreens, that are harmful to the reef.

• Special skin conditions or concerns

You may need sunscreen with mild, non-irritating ingredients if you have a skin condition, such as acne, rosacea, or eczema. You can also look for a sunscreen with moisturizing ingredients if you have dry skin or an oil-free sunscreen if you have oily skin.

4. Understand the basics of sun protection

To choose the right sunscreen, it's important to understand the basics of sun protection. Here we explain what you need to know about SPF, UVA and UVB protection, and physical vs. chemical sunscreens.

What is SPF and does it work?

Sun Protection Factor (SPF) is a measure of protection against the sun's UVB rays. The higher the SPF, the greater the protection against sunburn. However, a high SPF does not guarantee complete protection against skin damage caused by UVB or UVA rays.

The amount of sun protection an SPF provides depends on the amount of time it takes your skin to burn without sun protection. For example, if it takes 10 minutes for your skin to burn without sunscreen, a sunscreen with SPF 30 will protect you for 300 minutes (10 minutes x 30 SPF).

UVA and UVB protection

UVA and UVB protection is essential for complete protection against the sun's rays. UVB rays are responsible for sunburn and most skin cancers, while UVA rays can penetrate deeper layers of the skin and contribute to premature aging and skin cancer.

It's important to look for a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. A sunscreen that only offers protection against UVB rays is not enough for complete protection against skin damage caused by the sun.

5. Physical vs. Chemical Sunscreens

There are two main types of sunscreens: physical and chemical. Physical sunscreens (also called sunblock sometimes), such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, create a barrier on the skin that reflects and scatters the sun's rays. Chemical sunscreens, such as avobenzone and octinoxate, absorb UV rays and convert them into harmless heat.

Physical sunscreens are usually gentler on the skin and may be a better option for people with sensitive skin or skin conditions. Chemical sunscreens are usually easier to apply and can provide more comprehensive protection against UV rays. See our Sunscreen vs. Sunblock to learn more. 

6. Different types of sunscreen

Sunscreen lotion

Sunscreen lotions are the most common and easy to apply. They are ideal for daily use and offer long-lasting protection against UV rays.

Sunscreens Spray 

Spray sunscreens are easy to apply and can be a good option for covering large areas of the body. However, it is important to be careful when applying them to avoid inhaling the vapors from the spray.

Sunscreen stick

Stick sunscreens are ideal for protecting small and sensitive areas, such as the lips or around the eyes. They are easy to apply and do not require hand contact.

Sunscreen Powders

Powder sunscreens are a convenient option for touching up sunscreen on your skin during the day. They are easy to apply and do not leave a greasy residue. However, they usually can’t offer enough protection on their own and it is recommended to use them as complementary to other forms of sunscreen. 

Tinted sunscreens

Tinted sunscreens provide extra coverage for the skin and can be a good option for those looking for more comprehensive sun protection and light makeup. 

Sunscreen Powders

Sunscreen powders can be in the form of compact or loose powder that contains SPF. However, powders are not usually meant to be relied on as your only sunscreen. Rather they are complementary and can be used to enhance your sun protection throughout the day while you're on the go. 

7. Choosing the right sunscreen for your needs

To choose the right sunscreen for your needs, it's important to consider your specific sun protection and lifestyle needs. Here are some of the different types of sunscreen and who they are best suited for:

Sunscreen for daily use

If you are looking for a sunscreen for everyday use, you may want to look for one with a light texture that easily absorbs into the skin. Sunscreens with moisturizing and antioxidant ingredients can also be beneficial for the skin.

Sunscreen for sports and outdoor activities

If you plan to engage in outdoor activities or sports, you'll need a sweat and water-resistant sunscreen that provides long-lasting protection. Spray sunscreens can be a good option for quick and easy application.

Sunscreen for sensitive skin

If you have sensitive skin, you may want to look for a sunscreen with mild, non-irritating ingredients, such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. You can also look for a fragrance-free or oil-free sunscreen if you have acne-prone skin.

Sunscreen for children and babies

For children and babies, it's important to look for a sunscreen that is gentle on the skin and provides long-lasting protection against UV rays. Lotion or stick sunscreens may be easier to apply on young children.

Sunscreen for face

Sunscreen for the face should be mild and non-irritating to the skin and should provide broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. Sunscreens with moisturizing and antioxidant ingredients can help prevent premature aging of the skin.

8. Tips for applying sunscreen

For effective protection against UV rays, it is important to apply sunscreen correctly. Here are some tips for applying sunscreen:

It's important to note that this is a general guideline, and individual factors such as skin type, sun intensity, and outdoor activities can influence the effectiveness of sunscreen.

How much sunscreen to apply

It is recommended to apply at least one ounce of sunscreen (equivalent to one shot of glass) to cover the entire body. Adjust the amount based on your body size. For the face, you need about 2 finger lengths or 2mg for each cm2. 

Even application: 

Ensure that you apply the sunscreen evenly to all exposed skin areas. Don't forget commonly overlooked areas like ears, neck, tops of feet, and the back of your hands.

How often to reapply sunscreen

Sunscreen effectiveness diminishes over time, especially with activities like swimming, sweating, or towel drying. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if you are engaging in water activities.

Common mistakes when applying sunscreen

Some common mistakes when applying sunscreen include:

• Not applying enough sunscreen
• Not reapplying often enough
• Not covering all exposed areas of the skin 
• Not waiting long enough before going out in the sun after applying sunscreen, you should apply it at least 30 minutes before exposure.

9. Sunscreen Storage and Safety Tips

For safe and effective sunscreen use, it's important to keep a few safety and storage tips in mind. Here are some tips:

Tips for safe use of sunscreen

It is recommended not to use expired sunscreen and avoid sun exposure during the hours of greatest intensity, between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. and 4 p.m. It's also important to avoid artificial tanning and seek shade when possible.

Proper Storage and Disposal of Sunscreen

To maintain the effectiveness of sunscreen, it is important to store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. When sunscreen is no longer useful or has expired, it is important to dispose of it properly and not dispose of it in the environment.

Sun Protective Clothing (UPF)

In addition to sunscreen, another effective measure for safeguarding your skin against the harmful effects of UV rays is the use of sun-protective clothing. This specialized clothing is designed with fabrics that have a tight weave or contain added chemicals to block or absorb UV radiation. Look for garments labeled with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating, which indicates the level of protection they offer. UPF-rated clothing provides an extra layer of defense against the sun's rays, reducing the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. Styles range from hats and shirts to pants and swimwear, allowing individuals to enjoy outdoor activities while minimizing sun exposure. By incorporating sun-protective clothing into your sun care routine, you enhance your overall defense against the sun's potentially harmful effects

Conclusion

Wearing an adequate amount of sunscreen daily is a non-negotiable part of skin health. Choosing the right sunscreen is essential to protect your skin against damage caused by the sun's UV rays. By considering your sun protection and lifestyle needs, and by applying sunscreen correctly, you can enjoy the benefits of skin that is healthy and protected from the damaging effects of the sun.