The sun is not only harmful to the ocular system but retains your skin’s youthful appearance and prevents bad sunburn. As a dermatologist, I feel it is incredibly important (and nonnegotiable) to wear sunscreen every day whether you are going to the beach, walking to work, or staying inside near a sunny window. Incorporating these tips in your sunscreen routine can matter and keep you away from the adverse effects of sun exposure which may cause premature aging of the skin.
Understanding Sunscreen
What is Sunscreen?
Sunscreen is a protective lotion, spray, or gel that can absorb or reflect some of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This prevents skin cells from getting burnt and causing skin cancer.
Different Types of Sunscreens
Sunscreens are available in many different forms — lotions, gels, creams, sprays, or even powders. All types fit in different skin and preference needs. While dry skin would benefit more from creams and lotions, they might be a bit too bombarding for oily skin or hard-to-reach areas, in which case gels and sprays would make your life easier.
How Sunscreen Works
Sunscreen employs active ingredients that either absorb (chemical sunscreen) or reflect (physical sunscreen) harmful UV rays before they infiltrate your skin. This means that the wear and tear of your skin is less, which means less premature aging and its consequences, such as not getting old so quickly or even serious things like skin cancer.
The Importance of SPF
What Does SPF Mean?
The SPF value stands for “Sun Protection Factor”, which tells you how well that sunscreen will prevent UVB rays from burning your skin. SPF stands for the “sun protection factor.” The higher a sunscreen’s SPF, the more UVB protection it provides. For instance, if you use SPF 30 only 3% of UVB rays will reach your skin and with SPF 50 it is even less (2%).
Choosing the Right SPF for Your Skin
An SPF of 30 will do the trick for daily use, maintaining safety during quick outings into the sun. On the contrary, the use of SPF 50 or more is suggested with other fair-skinned people or those who are engaged in outdoor work to protect more against UV B radiation [17].
Broad Spectrum Protection
Why Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen is Essential
These broad-spectrum sunscreens help to protect your skin from damage against both UVA and UVB rays. UVB rays are what you can see when you burn, but UVA rays go further into the skin and cause early aging and higher risks of getting a cancerVERTISEMENT So make sure you always choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen for full sun protection.
UVA vs. UVB Rays
UVA rays cause long-term skin damage like wrinkles and fine lines, and UVB rays are what give you that nasty sunburn. Both UVA and UVB can cause skin cancer so a sunscreen that stops both is necessary.
Physical vs. Chemical Sunscreens
Differences Between Physical and Chemical Sunscreens
Physical (mineral) sunscreens, those containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, are applied onto the skin and work by reflecting UV rays. Chemical sunscreens use ingredients such as avobenzone and oxybenzone that absorb into the skin and absorb UV radiation.
Pros and Cons of Each Type
- Physical Sunscreens: Safer for skin, and provide immediate protection (no downtime) yet can be irritating on sensitive skin and leave a white cast on dark skin.
- Chemical Sunscreens: Lighter in weight and easy to apply beneath makeup; however, potent formulas may be irritating to sensitive skin types.
Sunscreen Application Tips
How to Apply Sunscreen Properly
Here is what you’re doing wrong: “You should be applying sunscreen 15 minutes before going outside,” Koufman says. Apply sunscreen to any and all exposed areas of your body — this includes your ears, neck, tops of feet.
Common Mistakes People Make When Applying Sunscreen
One of the most common errors results from not using enough. The average person applies only 1/3 to 1/2 of the recommended amount. Missing a few spots last, but not least, you should never forget to apply sunscreen on the scalp, lips, and neck (the back side).
How Much Sunscreen to Use
The Recommended Amount
That said, here at GQ we apply our sunscreen using a shot glass as an eccentric base measurement. But for the face, you generally need just a nickel-size amount.
Tips for Face and Body Application
Use just a retardally face as well as body sunscreen by dabbing it on evenly and smoothing the item in gently. Apply a new one every two hours or right after you swim (or sweat).
Reapplying Sunscreen
Why Reapplication is Crucial
Sunscreen does eventually wear off (yes, even the waterproof kind). Whether using a water-resistant formula, you should reapply at least every two hours to keep your skin protected.
How Often to Reapply During Different Activities
If you are in the water or simply doing vigorous outdoor activities that make you sweat, then you may need to apply more commonly — every 80 minutes. Regular wear days should have you touch up about every two hours.
Sunscreen and Makeup
How to Layer Sunscreen with Makeup
Don’t forget to wear sunscreen under your makeup. For extra protection when you are out in the sun all day, use a powder or spray sunscreen that won’t interfere with your makeup
Best Sunscreen for Under Makeup
Search for a serum with a consistency that is light and non-greasy, a fast-absorbing liquid — that helps leave your skin more refreshed-looking without creating any starchy white color. So there are plenty of sunscreens that are specifically formulated to play nice with foundation.
Choosing Sunscreen Based on Skin Type
Sunscreen for Oily Skin
Choose an oil-free or mattifying SPF that is none comedogenic so you avoid over oily-ness.
Sunscreen for Dry Skin
However, hydrating sunscreens that boost the skin’s moisture are great for avoiding looking flaky and dry.
Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin
Choose fragrance-free, hypoallergenic versions and select physical sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as they tend to be gentler on the skin.
Sunscreen for Children
Why Kids Need Sunscreen Too
Young skin is particularly prone to sun damage. Always put sunscreen on them, even if they are going outside to play.
Best Sunscreens for Children
Opt for sunscreens, which are specially formulated for sensitive skin care, and are usually labeled “baby” or “kid-friendly. Typically these are physical sunscreens, which tend to be more gentle on the skin.
Sunscreen for Outdoor Activities
Sunscreen for Sports and Swimming
If you plan to swim or be active in the sun, make sure to select a water-resistant sunscreen. If it is formulated to resist water, you have 80 minutes before needing another application.
Sunscreen in Different Seasons
Do You Need Sunscreen in Winter?
Yes! However, in winter, even on cloudy days and when surrounded by snow UV rays reflect off surfaces like glass and water.
How Sunscreen Use Varies by Season
You should still apply it, but you might not need something with an SPF of 30 or above unless it is summer and the product needs to be reapplied throughout the day.
Myths About Sunscreen
Common Myths and Misconceptions
- Myth: People with darker skin don´t use sunscreen.
- Fact: The higher in melanin the darker your skin is, is absolutely true but your skin still needs protection.
Conclusion
Sunscreen is the best secret to preventing your skin from aging early and from UV rays. Incorporate it into your daily ritual, and apply it often. Your skin will thank you!
FAQs
Can I skip sunscreen on cloudy days?
No, UV rays can penetrate clouds and potentially cause skin damage.
Is it safe to use sunscreen every day?
Absolutely! Use daily to protect against long-term skin damage and skin cancer.
Does a higher SPF offer better protection?
This number indicates that SPF 50 will block just a little more UVB rays than SPF 30, but not nearly 100%.
Can dark-skinned people skip sunscreen?
How about not, everyone needs to use sunscreen to avoid UV damage regardless of skin tone.
What’s the best way to remove sunscreen?
A mild cleanser or an oil-based makeup remover should be used to make sure there is zero sunscreen residue on the skin dealings.