Importance of sunscreen on the face and how to find the right one?
We’ve all heard how important it is to wear sunscreen to protect our skin, but do you understand why? Because our skin works to protect us from harmful ultraviolet radiation, we should use sunscreen to protect ourselves from these harmful rays. Our skin is susceptible to the sun’s rays even on cloudy days, which can cause skin cancer, discoloration, and wrinkles over time. Applying sunscreen every morning and again throughout the day is the most important change you can make in your daily routine to help protect your skin. If you notice any changes in your skin or new spots, make an appointment with your local Board-Certified Dermatologist. We’ve outlined the importance of using sunscreen on the face every day in the sections below.
Long waves (UVA) and short waves (UVB) are the two types of harmful rays that reach us from the sun (UVB). UVA rays can age us, while UVB rays can burn us. You should use a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Because most of our summer activities involve water and, of course, sweating, it’s also best to choose a water-resistant sunscreen.
Sunscreen labels vary, but in general, you should apply it 30 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours. Check your sunscreen’s expiration date and toss it if it’s past its prime. Even if the sun isn’t shining, make sure to apply sunscreen every day. On overcast days, people can get serious sunburns because up to 80% of the sun’s UV rays can pass through clouds. It’s also important to remember that UVA rays can pass through the glass, so you should protect your skin while driving or even sitting in front of windows.
What Kind of Sunscreen Is Best?
When buying sunscreen, there are three important things to look for. Check the label for a sunscreen that:
- It should have an SPF (sun protection factor) of 30 or higher
- It should protect against both UVA and UVB rays (a “broad-spectrum” sunscreen)
- is it water-resistant (protects kids while in the water for 40–80 minutes)
What Are the Different Types of Sunscreen?
There are two broad categories of sunscreen:
Mineral sunscreen
Sunscreen that sits on top of the skin and acts as a barrier to the sun’s rays is known as an inorganic or physical sunscreen. The words zinc or titanium may appear on the label. Because they are designed to stay on the surface of the skin, they can be difficult to rub in and may leave the skin looking whitish. Some even come in bright colors that children adore. Mineral sunscreen begins to work immediately after application, but it is easily washed away by water or sweat.
Chemical sunscreen
(also called organic sunscreen) Like a sponge, it absorbs the sun’s rays and protects the skin. It converts the rays to heat, which it then releases through the skin. It doesn’t leave the whitish coating on the skin that minerals do, and it also doesn’t wash off as easily because it absorbs into the top layer of the skin. However, it may take 15 to 30 minutes to get up and running.
Sunscreens come in a variety of forms, including creams, gels, sprays, and sticks. Creams are best for dry skin, sticks are best for around the eyes, and gels are best for hairy areas (like the scalp). Sunscreen sprays can make it difficult to tell if you’ve applied enough, and the fumes could be inhaled by children. Because some sprays are flammable, you must avoid sparks or flames when using them.
How, When, and Where to Use Sunscreen
For sunscreen to do its job, it must be used correctly:
• Use sunscreen whenever your children will be in the sun. Apply it about 15 to 30 minutes before your children go outside for the best results.
- Remember to check the ears, hands, feet, shoulders, and behind the neck. Lift up the straps of your bathing suit and apply sunscreen underneath them (in case the straps shift as a child moves). Lips should be protected with an SPF 30 lip balm.
- Use plenty of sunscreens. Dermatologists recommend using 1 ounce (enough to fill a shot glass or plastic medicine cup) to cover exposed body areas. Another method is to apply the “teaspoon rule.” Apply 9 teaspoons of sunscreen to the entire body: 1 teaspoon to the face and neck, 1 teaspoon to the front and back of the torso, 1 teaspoon to each arm, and 2 teaspoons to each leg.
- Reapply sunscreen frequently, at least every 2 hours. After a child has been sweating or swimming, reapply.
- Use a water-resistant sunscreen on children who will be near water or swimming. Because water reflects and intensifies the sun’s rays, children require long-lasting protection. Water-resistant sunscreens can stay in the water for up to 80 minutes, and some are also sweat-resistant. However, regardless of whether the sunscreen is water-resistant, make sure to reapply sunscreen when your children come out of the water.
Don’t be concerned about making a sunscreen bottle last. Stock up on sunscreen and discard any that has passed its expiration date or has been in your possession for three years or more.
Who Needs Sunscreen?
Every child needs to be protected from the sun. All children, regardless of skin tone, should use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Tannin is a sign of sun damage, even though dark skin has more protective melanin and tans more easily than it burns. Sunburns can also be painful for dark-skinned children. Keep babies under the age of six months out of the sun. When going outside, dress your baby in light clothing that covers his or her arms and legs, as well as a brimmed hat. If you can’t keep your baby out of the sun, apply a small amount of sunscreen to exposed skin on his or her hands and face.
Also, be a good role model. Wearing SPF 30 or higher sunscreen and limiting your sun exposure will reduce your risk of skin damage and teach your children good sun etiquette.
What Else Should I Know?
- Avoid sunscreens that contain PABA, which can cause skin allergies. The ingredient oxybenzone should be avoided because it may have hormonal effects.
2. Mineral sunscreens with the active ingredients zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are best for sensitive skin.
3. Make sure it has UV protection as well (many offer little or none), If your teen or preteen wants to use a self-tanner sunscreen.
4. While some cosmetics contain sunscreen, they usually do not provide adequate sun protection. Before applying makeup, make sure your teen wears sunscreen.
5. When selecting sunscreen, keep in mind that the best sunscreen is the one that you and your family will use every time you go outside.
Importance of sunscreen on face
Reduce the Risk of Sunburn
All dermatologists will emphasize the importance of sunburn prevention and skin protection. Spending long periods of time outside without sunscreen, as well as using tanning beds or booths, can cause sunburn. If you get sunburned frequently, it can cause damage to your skin, which can lead to skin cancer, premature wrinkling, and a variety of other skin problems. If you get a severe sunburn with blisters, see a dermatologist right away. They can assess your burn and recommend products to relieve the pain and reduce scarring. Oral or topical steroids can help prevent some of the damage caused by sunburns if caught early enough.
Prevent the Signs of Aging
Sun exposure with little to no protection can harm your elastin, collagen, and skin cells over time. This can cause premature aging signs such as discoloration, wrinkles, fine lines, and a leathery appearance over time. Photoaging, or premature aging, is common in people who spend time in the sun without wearing sunscreen, particularly in their 20s and 30s. Thankfully, these skin problems can be avoided by wearing sunscreen every day.
Reduce Your Risk of Skin Cancer
One of the most effective ways to prevent skin cancer is to apply sunscreen every day, even if the weather is cloudy. According to statistics, one out of every five Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70. Using a minimum of SPF 30 on a daily basis can reduce your risk of developing this disease. You can use a higher-level SPF for even more protection. If you are going to be outside for an extended period of time or will be in the water, you should reapply sunscreen every two hours.
Prevent Skin Discoloration.
Living with skin discoloration, especially when it appears later in life, can be difficult. The discoloration is commonly referred to as “sun spots” or “liver spots,” and it is usually tan to brown in color. They can affect both men and women and appear on the face, head, hands, and arms. Applying sunscreen to your skin at regular intervals throughout the day can help prevent these spots from appearing.
Reduce Inflammation
When our skin is exposed to UV rays, it can become inflamed and painful. Individuals with skin conditions such as psoriasis or rosacea may find this particularly difficult. Wearing sunscreen every day can help reduce inflammation caused by harmful rays. If you have sensitive skin and are prone to redness, look for a sunscreen that contains gentle ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Spray-on sunscreens should also be avoided because they can contain harsh formulas, such as alcohol, which can dry out the skin. If you have any questions about your skin problems or need help choosing a product, consult a board-certified dermatologist in your area.
Tips for Picking a Sunscreen
With so many options, picking a sunscreen product can be difficult. One of the most important things to look for when choosing products is the level of SPF. Keeping in mind an SPF of 30 or higher will ensure that your skin is fully protected, even on cloudy days. Remember to always reapply sunscreen after swimming or using a towel, and always choose a product with “broad spectrum” coverage. If you need help, reach out to our board-certified dermatologists at Mahoney Dermatology Specialists today!
How do you choose the best sunscreen for you when there are so many options? Many people believe that the higher the Sun Protection Factor (SPF), the better, but which type of SPF provides the best protection? The higher the SPF, the more UVB rays are blocked, though no sunscreen can guarantee 100% protection. While many people seek out sunscreen with higher SPF numbers, experts have determined that SPF 15 sunscreen provides adequate sun protection for human skin. While many sunscreens offer higher SPF protection, there isn’t much extra protection once the SPF reaches 15. I always recommend at least an SPF 30 to be safe.
Sunscreen not only protects against skin cancer, but it also protects against photoaging, which manifests itself as dark spots, sagging skin, and wrinkles. If you want a product that does double duty, look for sunscreens that have anti-aging properties and a moisturizer in addition to a broad-spectrum SPF.
Conclusion:
What matters most is that your sunscreen is at least 30 SPF,2. water-resistant, and 3. works across a broad UVA/UVB spectrum, whether you buy it at a doctor’s office or a drug store. So,
Never forget to apply sunscreen!
