UVA rays cause tanning, as well as wrinkles and other signs of premature aging. UVB rays cause sunburns and directly damages the skin’s DNA, which can promote the growth of cancer cells that lead to skin cancer. Using sunscreen daily protects your skin from the sun’s damaging ultraviolet rays. But do you know how and when to use it? Remember these facts the next time you choose and use sunscreen.
- What is SPF
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. It is a measure of the sunscreen’s ability to prevent UVB rays from damaging the skin. It takes 20 minutes for unprotected skin to turn red. If you are using an SPF of 15, then theoretically the sunscreen will protect your skin for about 5 hours. However, an SPF 30 will provide only slightly more protection. Most dermatologist recommend an SPF 30.
- Mineral Sunscreens Are The Best
The best UVA and UVB protection comes from a combination of zinc oxide and titanium oxide, found in most non-toxic and natural sunscreens. They provide UVA and UVB protection by deflecting ultra violet rays away from the skin.
- Apply Sunscreen Before Going Out
Sunscreens should be applied 30 minutes before sun exposure to allow the ingredients to fully
sink in and bind to the skin. Reapplication of sunscreen is just as important as putting it on in
the first place, so re-apply the same amount every two hours.
4. Are You Wearing Enough Sunscreen
People don't receive the full ultraviolet radiation blocking benefit of sunscreen, because they are applying it more thinly than manufacturers recommend. Apply at least one ounce of sunscreen (or a shot glass amount) to your entire body and a nickel-sized amount to your face.
5. All Skins Need Sunscreen
Dermatologists and medical experts recommend that everyone, regardless of their skin color, should wear sunscreen every day. Even though darker skin has a higher amount of melanin than lighter skin, skin damage can still occur.
- You Need Sunscreen on Cloudy and Winter Days
Do not ease up on sunscreen during winters and cloudy days. UVB rays reflect of water, ice, snow and sand. In fact, snow reflects up to 80% of UV rays. On a cloudy day, as little as 20% of UV rays are blocked out.
- Water Resistant Not Water Proof
There is no such thing as sunscreen that is waterproof or sweatproof sunscreen. Sunscreens are water-resistant, but for a limited time, which is why it is vital to reapply every 40 to 80 minutes when swimming or exercising in the sun.
8. Sunscreen Alone Won't Help Prevent Skin Cancer
You simply can’t rely on sunscreen alone to help prevent skin cancer. Sunscreen provides protection against, sun-burns, dark spots, wrinkles and skin damage that can lead to skin cancer. However, it can’t be expected to do all the work by itself. Always use sunscreen but ensure to take other preventive measures as well; stay out of direct sun during peak hours (10AM to 4 PM), wear protective clothing, use broad brimmed hats or umbrellas to block the UV rays.
Make sunscreen a part of your daily skin care regimen to protect your skin from the damaging effects of the sun. Select from a variety of sunscreens from our website https://sunshineonthego.com
