Protecting your skin from the harmful rays of the sun is crucial in maintaining its health and beauty. Sunscreen is one tool that we use to achieve this protection.

But with the many types and brands available in the market, understanding sunscreen can be quite challenging.

What is Sunscreen?

Sunscreen is a product applied to the skin that helps to protect it from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. These rays can cause various skin problems such as sunburns, skin cancer, and premature aging.

Sunscreen works by either absorbing or reflecting the UV rays, preventing them from penetrating the skin.

Types of Sunscreen

Sunscreen comes in two types – chemical and physical. Chemical sunscreens contain organic compounds such as avobenzone and oxybenzone, which absorb the UV rays.

On the other hand, physical sunscreens, also known as mineral sunscreens, contain inorganic compounds such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which reflect the UV rays. Physical sunscreens are usually recommended for people with sensitive skin since they are less likely to cause irritation.

Sun Protection Factor (SPF)

SPF is a measure of how well a sunscreen protects the skin from UVB rays, one of the two types of UV rays that penetrate the skin. The scale ranges from 2 to 50+. The higher the SPF number, the better the protection.

However, this does not mean that a higher SPF will provide total protection from the sun’s harmful rays. An SPF of at least 30 is recommended for daily use.

Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen

Broad-spectrum sunscreen protects the skin from both UVA and UVB rays. UVB rays cause sunburns while UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin, causing premature aging and skin cancer. Use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen helps to prevent both types of damage.

Water-Resistant Sunscreen

Water-resistant sunscreen is another type of sunscreen that can stay on the skin after being exposed to water or sweat. The label on the sunscreen indicates how long it can resist water before you need to reapply it.

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However, it is important to note that water-resistant sunscreen does not provide complete protection. It is advisable to reapply sunscreen after every two hours of water and sweat exposure.

How to Apply Sunscreen

It is crucial to apply sunscreen correctly to achieve adequate protection. Here is a guide on how to apply sunscreen:.

1. Apply sunscreen 20 to 30 minutes before sun exposure;
2. Use an adequate amount of sunscreen to cover all exposed skin;
3. Apply sunscreen even in areas that are not directly exposed to the sun;
4. Reapply sunscreen after sweating, swimming or every two hours when exposed to the sun;
5. Do not forget to apply sunscreen to your lips and eyelids.

When to Wear Sunscreen

Sunscreen should be worn every day, even when it is cloudy. UV rays still penetrate through the clouds and reflect from surfaces such as water, sand, and concrete, causing damage to the skin.

Sunscreen should be applied during any outdoor activities such as sports, gardening, and hiking. It is even recommended to use it when driving since UV rays can penetrate through car windows.

Choosing the Right Sunscreen

Choosing the right sunscreen depends on your skin type, the activity you will be involved in, and the duration of sun exposure. Look for a sunscreen that is labeled as broad-spectrum, with an SPF of at least 30 and that is water-resistant.

Conduct a patch test with a new sunscreen to test sensitivity to it before using it all over your body.

Sun Protection Tips

Aside from sunscreen, here are other tips that can provide extra protection from the sun:.

1. Avoid sun exposure during peak hours, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.;
2. Use clothing to protect the skin, such as wearing long-sleeved shirts and hats;
3. Stay in the shade if possible;
4. Protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses that have UV protection;
5. Drink enough water to keep your skin hydrated.

Conclusion

Understanding sunscreen and the importance of protecting your skin from the harmful UV rays is vital in maintaining healthy skin.

Choosing the right sunscreen, reapplying regularly and taking extra precautions will effectively protect your skin from the damages caused by the sun.