Top benefits of sunscreen which makes it necessary for skincare: You really need to know

Introduction

The use of the Sun Protection Factor or SPF is one of the most important aspects of skin care that an individual should practice on a daily basis, since it prevents one’s skin from sun UV as well as acts as a shield from the sun's rays, thus keeping the harmful radiation from gaining access to the skin. It helps save you from sunburn, skin cancer, skin tanning, and aging early if repeatedly applied.

Using SPF is one of the most effective strategies to maintain healthy, safe and protected skin. So, sunscreen cream is necessary to make part of your daily routine.

Harmful effects of UV rays of sun

There are three types of UV rays and amongst those, Ultraviolet A, Ultraviolet B, and Ultraviolet C:

1. UVA

︎• Having a long wavelength, these rays are one of the major causes of skin aging and skin wrinkling.

2. UVB

︎• These rays have a medium wavelength and they are the main cause of skin burns and also damage the skin’s outer layer.

3. UVC

︎• These rays have a short wavelength and they are very dangerous to all and also can be particularly harmful to the eyes & skin cancer problems.

Image credit to : Pexels

Benefits of Sunscreen

1. Protect from UV rays

• Sunscreen helps to protect your skin like as: aging , burning and cancer problems.

2. Prevents Hyperpigmentation

• The application of sunscreens prevents dark spots as well as uneven pigments in the skin through the sun's rays.

3. Maintains an even Skin Tone

• By protecting against sun induced pigmentation, sunscreen helps maintain a more even and radiant skin tone.

4. Prevents Skin Tanning

• When apply sunscreen then melanin less produce. So it helps to prevent skin tanning.

5. Prevent Premature Aging

• It fights the early aging processes like but not only wrinkle and fine lines which are because of prolonged exposure to the sun.

6. Less risk of Skin Cancer

• Using sunscreen on a regular basis reduces the risk of skin cancer.

7. Prevents Skin Burns

• Sunscreen protects your skin from harmful UVB rays, causing sunburn and damage to your skin cells.

Apply Sunscreen Correctly

When applied correctly, sunscreen provides maximum protection. Here's how:

1. Clean Your Skin First: Wash your face to remove dirt, oil, and other impurities.

2. Moisturize Before Sunscreen: If you have dry skin, apply moisturizer before sunscreen. Some sunscreens already contain moisturizing ingredients, making it easier for you to have a streamlined routine.

3. Use the Right Amount: For your face and neck, use about a nickel-sized amount.

4. Apply Before Sun Exposure: Apply sunscreen 15-30 minutes before going outside to allow it to bind with your skin.

5. Apply to All Exposed Skin: Don't forget to apply sunscreen to your ears, neck, hands, and feet. If you have a part in your hair, apply sunscreen to your scalp as well.

6. Apply Again After Two Hours: Apply sunscreen again after two hours, or more often if you swim or sweat.

Guidelines

• Any sun screen with an SPF of less than 15 will not provide much sun protection. For extended sun exposure for more than two hours staying between 30 and 50 SPF (Recommended by Experts).

• Apply sunscreen at least 20 minutes before going out in the sun and use it all over the face and neck.

• Apply one sunscreen that suits your skin type as the final step of your skincare routine, right after moisturizing.

• Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen appropriately to enable your skin to fight off both UVA and UVB rays on their own.

Note

• SPF 1 = 10 minutes of work

• SPF 15 = 15×10 = 150 minutes = 2.5 hours of work

• SPF 30 = 30×10 = 300 minutes = 5 hours of work

Make Sunscreen part of your Daily Routine

Sunscreen isn’t just for outdoor adventures. It’s essential every day. Here’s how to incorporate it into your life:

• UVA rays can penetrate windows, so sunscreen is necessary even when you’re indoors.

• Sunscreen should be used in all seasons. UV rays are present during winter and on cloudy days. Reflective surfaces like snow and water can increase exposure.

• Apply sunscreen as the final step of your skincare routine and under makeup. Apply SPF infused setting sprays.

How to Choose right Sunscreen?

Sunscreens come in three primary varieties: chemical, physical, and hybrid :

• Chemical sunscreen absorb UV rays & more lightweight while physical sunscreen reflect them.

• Generally speaking, hybrid sunscreens are lighter and easier to apply.

• Physical sunscreens to be thicker and can leave a white cast on the skin.

• Product Form:

(i) Creams: Good for face and dry skin.

(ii) Gels: Suitable for oily or acne-prone skin.

(iii) Sprays: Good for body, but must be applied with much care in order not to miss spots.

(iv) Sticks: Great for areas like nose and ears.

Sunscreen according to skin type

• If you have oily or acne-prone skin, you should want to look for a lightweight formula, quick absorbing, give a dewy finish and leave no white cast such as Dr. Sheth's Centella & Niacinamide Sunscreen Spf 50. Also look for ingredients that help balance sebum/oil and soothe inflammations.

• If you have dry or sensitive skin look for a sunscreen that offers additional moisturizing benefit such as Dr. Sheth's Ceramide & Vitamin C Sunscreen.

• SPF cream that suits all skin types such as The Derma Co Hyaluronic Sunscreen Aqua Ultra Light Gel With Spf 50.

Additional Tips to protect Skin

• Avoid the sun as much as possible for it to prevent any contact with UV rays.

• Wearing the full sleeves, protective clothing and UV protection sunglasses.

• Ingesting fluids as water in order to maintain skin's moisture level with consuming moisture-rich fleshy fruits like water melon.

• Wearing scarf or cap.

Easy Tips for Sunscreen Application

In the Morning

• Sunscreen should be applied following the moisturizer but prior to makeup.

Outdoor Activities

• Use a pocket-sized sunscreen for easy reapplication and a hat and sunglasses for additional protection.

Reminders

• Set an alarm or download an app on the phone to remind you to apply sunscreen every 2 hours.

Myths About Sunscreen

Some myths may make people not want to use sunscreen. Let's debunk a few:

Cloudy Days Mean No Sunscreen Needed.

• Up to 80% of UV rays can pass through clouds. So, Sunscreen is needed in rain, cloud or shine.

People with Darker Skin Don't Need Sunscreen.

• While darker skin has more melanin, it's not immune to sun damage or skin cancer.

One Application Lasts All Day.

• Sunscreen wears off due to sweat, water, and time. Reapplication is important.

Make-up with SPF is Sufficient.

Most makeups don't actually offer enough protection. Use sunscreen as base for makeup for complete protection.

Conclusion

Sunscreen is the vital step toward strong, healthy skin. Incorporate sunscreen into your regimen and in the meantime, make sure to perform these steps for your daily sun protection; keep cancer and other skin diseases at bay, to maintain a young surfacing since time immemorial, and... well, after all, it is never too late! Make it a part of your skincare musthaves!

FAQs

1. Why do I need sunscreen every day?

Apply sunscreen daily to your skin, even on cloudy days or in winter. This can prevent premature aging, sunburn, and skin cancer.

2. What does SPF mean and how to choose the right one?

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, which measures UVB protection. SPF 30 is ideal for daily use, while SPF 50 provides extra coverage for outdoor activities.

3. How do UVA and UVB rays differ?

UVA Rays: Penetrate deeper into the skin, causing signs of aging like wrinkles and spots.

UVB Rays: Cause surface-level damage such as sunburns and can lead to skin cancer.

4. How much sunscreen should I apply?

Use a nickel-sized amount for your face and neck.

5. How long before going outside do I need to apply?

15-30 minutes before going outside to allow it to absorb so the protection is in place.

6. How often must I reapply sunscreen?

Reapply every two hours, especially if you swim or sweat. In the indoors, one application may suffice unless you are exposed to sunlight.

7. Must I wear sunscreen under my makeup?

Yes, but sunscreen should be the final step in your skincare routine before layering on makeup. Additionally, SPF sprays can be a good option for touching up throughout the day.

8. Do I need sunscreen even if I stay indoors?

Yes, because UVA rays can penetrate through windows, making sunscreen important even when you’re inside.

9. What does "broad-spectrum" mean?

Broad-spectrum(SPF 30 - SPF 50) sunscreens guard against both UVA and UVB rays, offering complete protection against skin damage.

10. Chemical vs. Mineral Sunscreen?

Chemical Sunscreens: Chemical sunscreens absorb the UV rays and change it into heat. It feels very light on the skin, but can cause irritation with sensitive skin.

Mineral Sunscreens: Mineral sunscreens block the rays of the sun by forming a barrier on the skin. Good for sensitive or reactive skin.