Sunscreen Facts You Should Know About

Applying sunscreen is an essential part of skin care, especially during the sunny months. When you apply sunscreen, it forms a protective barrier on the skin that reflects and absorbs the UV rays before they can damage the skin. Sunscreen contains special chemicals called UV filters that interact with the UV rays, absorbing them before they interact with our skin cells. This helps prevent sunburn and other DNA damage that can lead to cancer.

Wearing sunscreen daily is highly recommended even on cloudy days, since up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate through clouds. Sunscreen is the best anti-aging product because it prevents premature wrinkles and age spots caused by the sun. It's never too early to start applying sunscreen, so make it a vital part of your skincare routine every single day.

With so many options in the market, it can be confusing to know which sunscreen to choose and how to use it properly. Here are some important facts about sunscreens that everyone should know.

Choosing the Right Sunscreen.

When selecting a sunscreen, it’s important to understand what SPF stands for and how to identify a broad spectrum formula. SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, indicates how well the sunscreen protects against UVB rays, which are the main cause of sunburn. Higher SPF values provide more protection, but no sunscreen can block 100% of UVB rays. Broad spectrum means the sunscreen also shields skin from UVA rays, which contribute to skin aging and cancer. For adequate protection, always choose a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.

Sunscreen Formulas.

Sunscreens come in various formulations including lotions, sprays, sticks, and powders. Creams tend to be thicker and best for dry skin. Lotions have a lighter texture that absorb well into oiler skin. Sticks are convenient for applying to the face and can prevent eye irritation. Spray sunscreens are quick to apply but do not always provide thorough coverage. Powder sunscreens are useful for reapplication over makeup. Consider your skin type and needs when choosing a formula.

Proper Application.

Many people do not apply enough sunscreen or apply it improperly, which significantly reduces effectiveness. Don't be stingy with it, be generous with the application and reapply every two hours when outdoors. It takes about one ounce, or enough to fill a shot glass, to cover the exposed parts of the average adult body properly. Rub sunscreen thoroughly into all exposed skin until it disappears without missing any spots. Pay extra attention to oft-missed vulnerable areas like ears, scalp if hair is thin, lips, neck, tops of feet, and backs of hands. Reapply after swimming or sweating heavily.

Safety Tips.

While sunscreen is important for skin protection, there are some safety issues to be aware of. Spray sunscreens have been associated with inhalation risks. Inhaling the chemicals can cause allergic reactions or other problems, especially in children. To minimize risks, apply spray sunscreens with caution. Sunscreen chemicals can also cause eye irritation, so spray the product onto hands first rather than directly at the face. Keep products away from the eyes and mouth. If irritation occurs, rinse with water right away.

Vitamin D Considerations.

There are concerns that sunscreen could lead to vitamin D deficiency since sunlight on bare skin produces vitamin D. While too much sun exposure can be harmful, moderate exposure without burning can satisfy vitamin D needs for most people. Those at very high risk for skin cancer or people restricted from sun exposure for other reasons may need vitamin D from foods or supplements instead. Speak to your dermatologist about finding the right balance of sun protection and vitamin D production based on your health profile and lifestyle.

Expiration Dates.

Sunscreen effectiveness can decline over time so check expiration dates before application. Most sunscreens are good for at least three years. Throw away sunscreens that have changed color, consistency or fragrance since that may indicate instability. Using expired sunscreen can put your skin at risk. Purchase sunscreens with expiration dates as far in the future as possible and replace them regularly.

The Right Price.

Higher priced does not necessarily mean higher quality when it comes to sunscreen. Many affordable generic store-brand sunscreens are tested to meet the same standards as pricier brands. As long as the active ingredients are the same, lower cost options should work equally well. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are natural mineral ingredients that are broad spectrum and suit most skin types. Shop around to find an effective sunscreen that fits your budget and go all out if it's worth your money.

Sunscreen and Infants.

Special care should be taken when applying sunscreen to infants. Sunscreen should not be used on babies under 6 months old. Their skin is too sensitive and likely to absorb ingredients. Keep infants shaded instead. For those 6 months to 1 year, use trial amounts first to watch for irritation, and avoid sprays. Check with your pediatrician if you have concerns.

The Bottom Line,

Sunscreen is important for protecting your skin from sun damage that can lead to premature aging and skin cancer. Dermatologists recommend using a broad spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. The sun protection factor (SPF) rating on sunscreens refers to their effectiveness against UVB rays. Look for a minimum of SPF 30, but higher SPFs of 50 or more provide even better protection.

Sunscreen should be applied generously 15-30 minutes before sun exposure and reapplied every 2 hours when outdoors. Choosing the right product provides adequate sun protection without irritation.

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With some care taken in selection and application, we can help you enjoy the sunny months safely.