Summer is finally here and everyone is eager to spend long hours basking in the sun. But wait, before you head out, have you applied your sunscreen? You may have heard this several times, but it can never be overemphasized.

What is sunscreen?

Sunscreen is a product designed to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays. It contains chemicals that either absorb or reflect the UV radiation, preventing your skin from burning.

Why is sunscreen important?

One of the primary reasons why sunscreen is essential is because it helps prevent skin cancer. The sun emits UVA and UVB rays, which can cause skin damage over time.

Prolonged exposure to the sun can increase your risk of cancer, even if you don’t burn.

In addition to protecting against cancer, sunscreen also helps protect against premature aging. Excessive sun exposure can cause wrinkles, fine lines, and spots, making you look older than your actual age. Nobody wants that!.

How does sunscreen work?

There are two types of sunscreen: chemical and physical. Chemical sunscreen contains active ingredients that absorb UV rays and then release the energy as heat. Physical sunscreen, on the other hand, contains minerals like titanium dioxide or zinc oxide.

These minerals act as a barrier and reflect the UV rays from the skin’s surface.

How to choose the right sunscreen

Choosing the right sunscreen can be overwhelming, but it’s essential to find one that works for you. The following are some of the factors you need to consider when selecting sunscreen:.

Sun Protection Factor (SPF): this measures the level of protection against UVB rays. SPF 30 is the minimum recommended for daily use, while SPF 50 is ideal for extended outdoor activities.
Broad-spectrum: this means the sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
Water-resistant: ensure your sunscreen is water-resistant, especially if you’re planning to engage in water activities.
Skin type: some sunscreens are specifically designed for different skin types. For instance, if you have acne-prone skin, you should opt for oil-free sunscreen.

How to use sunscreen

It’s not just enough to purchase sunscreen; using it correctly is vital for maximum protection. Here are some tips on how to apply sunscreen:.

Apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before going out in the sun.
Use a generous amount of sunscreen – one ounce (about a shot glass full) is enough to cover your entire body.
Reapply the sunscreen every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating.
Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to your ears, neck, feet, and other areas that are often neglected.

Conclusion

As fun as summer may be, it’s essential to protect yourself against the sun’s harmful effects. Investing in quality sunscreen is the best decision you can make for your skin.

Remember, you don’t have to burn to increase your risk of skin cancer and premature aging. So, whenever you step out in the sun, always say hello to sunscreen and bid farewell to sunburn.