Posted by: Skin And Cancer Institute in Skin Cancer
As the summer heat starts to crank up, it’s important to remember to protect your skin from the harmful rays of the sun. Sunscreen is an important part of any summertime skin care routine, but with so many different types and brands available, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. In this post, we’ll outline the most important things to consider when choosing sunscreen. We’ll also provide some tips on how to find the best one for your needs. Let’s get started!
Sunscreen is a necessary part of any summertime routine.
You might have heard that you should only wear sunscreen when it’s sunny out, but the truth is that you need to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays every day, no matter what the weather is like. Sunscreen helps to block ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can damage your skin in both the short and long term. Short-term effects of too much sun exposure include sunburn, redness, and swelling. Long-term effects can be much more serious, including wrinkles, age spots, and an increased risk of skin cancer. Wearing sunscreen is one of the best ways to protect your skin from these harmful effects.
What to look for in a sunscreen
There are a few key things to look for when it comes to sunscreen. First and foremost, you want a sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection, which means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays can cause premature aging, while UVB rays are the primary cause of sunburn. Secondly, you want sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. This will provide good protection against the sun’s rays. Thirdly, you want a sunscreen that is waterproof and sweatproof. This is especially important if you live in a hot climate or if you plan on being active outdoors. Finally, you want a sunscreen that is non-greasy and won’t clog your pores. There are many great sunscreens on the market that meet all of these criteria, so take your time to find one that works for you.
Mineral/physical sunscreen versus chemical sunscreen
When it comes to sunscreen, there are two main types: mineral and chemical. Mineral sunscreens rely on active ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to create a physical barrier on the skin that deflects harmful UV rays. Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, use active ingredients like avobenzone to absorb UV rays and convert them into harmless heat energy. So which type of sunscreen is right for you? There are a few things to consider when making your decision:
- Mineral sunscreens tend to be less irritating than chemical sunscreens, making them a good choice for people with sensitive skin.
- Mineral sunscreens provide immediate protection from the sun, while chemical sunscreens can take up to 20 minutes to become effective.
- Mineral sunscreens are more stable in sunlight than chemical sunscreens and are less likely to degrade or cause irritation.
- If you have sensitive skin or prefer a natural product, mineral sunscreen may be the best option for you.
Broad-spectrum sunscreens offer the best protection from the sun’s harmful rays.
Experts agree that broad-spectrum sunscreens offer the best protection against both UVA and UVB rays, which can both contribute to the development of skin cancer. So, it’s important to choose a sunscreen that provides protection against both types of rays.
Sunscreens should be applied every two hours, or more often if you’re sweating or swimming.
Many people don’t realize that sunscreen isn’t a one-and-done kind of product. It loses its effectiveness as the day wears on. So, to work its best, sunscreen needs to be applied regularly – at least every two hours, and more often if you’re sweating or swimming. Otherwise, you’re not getting the full protection that you need.
So wear sunscreen daily, even if you plan to stay indoors. And don’t forget to put sunscreen on often-forgotten spots like your lips, ears, and the back of your neck. With a little care, you can enjoy all the fun of summer without putting your skin at risk.
Make sure to read the label and follow directions carefully
Most skin cancer cases can be prevented by using sunscreen daily and following the directions on the label. However, many people do not use sunscreen properly. For example, they may apply it too thinly or fail to reapply it after swimming or sweating. As a result, they do not get the full protection that sunscreen can provide.
To make sure that you are using sunscreen correctly:
- Take a few minutes to read the label before you apply it.
- Look for a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and UVA and UVB protection.
- Apply a generous amount of sunscreen, and reapply it every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that your skin stays healthy and protected all summer long.
FAQ
Can I use expired sunscreen?
No, you should not use expired sunscreen. Sunscreen expires because the ingredients degrade over time and become less effective. So, it’s important to check the expiration date of your sunscreen before using it.
What is the best sunscreen for sensitive skin?
Mineral sunscreens are generally less irritating than chemical sunscreens, making them a good choice for people with sensitive skin.
Do I need to wear sunscreen if I’m not going outside?
Yes, you should wear sunscreen every day, even if you’re staying indoors. UV rays can penetrate glass, so you’re still at risk of sun damage even when you’re inside.
How much sunscreen should I apply?
You should apply enough sunscreen to any skin that’s exposed. A good rule of thumb is to use one ounce (enough to fill a shot glass) of sunscreen.