In this article on skincare, we explain how sunscreen is a necessary step in skin care to guard against the damaging effects of UV radiation, which can include sunburn, dark spots, wrinkles, pigmentation issues, and even cancer.
Applying sunscreen each day is something you should do with extreme diligence. In actuality, it’s your three times daily application of sunscreen. No matter where you spend your day—inside, on a plane, playing sports, by the pool, working in a cubicle, out for lunch, on a stroll, or while in transit—crucial it’s to apply sunscreen. This is due to the sun’s UV rays, which also age skin cells and create wrinkles genetic damage and sunburn, and can even provoke cancer.
UVA, UVB, and UVC are the three wavelengths that make up ultraviolet light. UVA rays create a damaged texture and reduced elasticity because they enter the skin. Sunburns and cancer are linked to UVB rays because they strike the dermis’ outermost layers.
How sun-related photodamage feels and appears
In between the epidermis and subcutaneous tissue, in the centre of the skin, is the dermis. It contains proteins that influence the strength and flexibility of the skin, including collagen and elastin. Photoaging is brought on by the breakdown of these proteins, which are essential for keeping the skin smooth and youthful-looking.
Wrinkles, fine lines around the lips, eyes, and forehead, sagging skin from loss of elasticity, dark patches, pigmentation, and an uneven tone and texture are all symptoms of photoaging. Since UVA rays enter the dermis and induce an unnatural buildup of elastin, which in turn triggers enzymes to break down collagen, UV radiation can cause collagen to break down at a quicker pace than normal ageing. Sun exposure can result in the creation of free radicals in addition to the loss of collagen, the substance that gives cells their plump and healthy appearance (unstable oxygen molecules that damage cells at the molecular level). Sunburns, a more harmful form of photoaging, is brought on by a breakdown of DNA in the skin cells. This leads to hot, red, irritated skin.
Cancer is perhaps the most catastrophic harm that UV radiation can do. Melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma are the three main kinds of skin cancer that can result from UV exposure; they are all quickly propagating, metastatic tumours.
How does sunscreen function?
SPF stands for sun protection factor and measures how long it would take you to burn without sunscreen. This implies that using sunscreen with an SPF of 30 will protect you from UVB rays for 30 times longer than not wearing any. A broad-spectrum sunscreen will also be strengthened with UVA ray-reflecting chemicals if you desire it. The only restriction is that the sunscreen will feel more glue-like and sticky as you move up the SPF rung.
Sunscreen for everyone
There are two general categories of sunscreen that are suitable for various conditions or requirements. Zinc oxide or titanium oxide, which reflects light, is found in physical sunscreens. They work very well on delicate skin, however, other individuals may find them lacking because they frequently leave a white cast. Avobenzone or oxybenzone is a chemical sunscreen ingredient that may absorb UV radiation and disperse them through their chemical interactions. They are simple to apply but may aggravate some skin types.
There is sunscreen available for every person.
Go for a physical sunscreen that won’t bother the skin if you have delicate, easily inflamed skin that is furious. Make sure there is no alcohol in it because it might further zap the moisture.
Hyaluronic acid should be added to your sunscreen if you have really dry, flaking skin.
If you spend a lot of time in front of the computer or are really lazy: Just combine the actions you normally use to apply sunscreen and moisturiser.
You’ll need entirely waterproof sunscreen if you engage in physical activity, spend time by the pool, or spend too much time staring out the window.
If your skin is oily and prone to acne: Choose an item that won’t make the shine slicker.