Written by Sheza Kamran
Sunscreen plays a crucial role in protecting your skin from damage and reducing the risk of skin cancer. It works by blocking harmful UV radiation from penetrating and damaging your skin. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, skin cancer is diagnosed more frequently each year. Additionally, sunscreen also helps slow the process of premature aging, such as wrinkles and sagging skin.
WHAT IS SPF
SPF, (Sun Protection Factor) measures the level of protection a sunscreen provides against UV radiation, as mentioned the radiation is the primary cause of sunburn and contributes to skin cancer. As the SPF number increases, so does the level of protection. For example, SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UV radiation, while SPF 50 blocks about 98%. However, no sunscreen can block 100% of UV rays, so additional protective measures are always advisable.
WHAT IS THE BEST SUNSCREEN TO USE?
Everyone, including children over 6 months old, should apply sunscreen daily. Babies under 6 months have extremely sensitive skin, making sunscreen unsuitable for them. To protect their skin, it's best to dress them in protective clothing and keep them in the shade instead.
The best kind of sunscreen to look for is one that is "broad-spectrum." A broad-spectrum
sunscreen protects your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. UVB rays are primarily responsible
for causing sunburn, “B" for burning, while UVA rays contribute to premature skin aging, "A" for aging. Both types of rays can increase the risk of skin cancer, making broad-spectrum
protection essential for skin safety.
HOW TO APPLY SUNSCREEN PROPERLY?
For everyday use, a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher is recommended. For
extended outdoor activities, use SPF 30 or higher. Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going
outdoors. Reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.
Use at least 1 ounce (about a shot glass full) of sunscreen to cover exposed areas of your body. This amount can vary depending on body size. Don't forget areas like your ears, neck, and the tops of your feet. Protect your lips with a lip balm or lipstick containing an SPF of 30 or higher.
OTHER STRATEGIES
While sunscreen is vital, it's most effective when combined with other protective strategies:
● Seek Shade: Especially during peak sun hours (10 AM to 4 PM).
● Wear Protective Clothing: Such as long-sleeved shirts, pants, and a hat.
● Avoid Tanning: Both from the sun and artificial sources like tanning beds.
These steps together help keep your skin strong, reducing the risk of damage and maintaining
your skin's health.
Citations
(n.d.). All About Sunscreen. The Skin Cancer Foundation. Retrieved from
(n.d.). Blog: Why sun protection is important. Reid Health. Retrieved from
(n.d.). Sunscreens: Protect your skin. University of Rochester Medical Center. Retrieved from
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(2024, January 13). What is broad spectrum SPF?: PCA Skin Blog. PCA Skin. Retrieved from
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