Skin Care 101: Everything about Sunscreen

Skin Care 101: Everything about Sunscreen

You better believe that most people out there don't wear their sunscreen daily. By now you should know that sunscreen is the most important step in your skincare routine and this article will tell you why.

Reasons Why You Need Sunscreens

  • Prevents Sunburn: Sunburns are a pain in the neck, it does not look pretty and will peel afterward.
  • Anti-aging: Exposure to the sun damages your skin and causes premature aging. (Causing wrinkles)
  • Reduces Sunspots: Relates to aging and can be seen on the face, back, and anywhere else on your body that is exposed to the sun.
  • Prevents Skin Cancer: In the long term without using sunscreen will leads to serious skin cancer.

What are the types of UV rays and what does it impact?

UVA (Ultraviolet A): impacts skin aging which causes premature aging and causes hyperpigmentation 

UVB (Ultraviolet B): Results in sunburns, sun tans, and blisters as UVB gets absorbed into your skin

Types of Sunscreens

  • Chemical Sunscreen: Absorbs the sunlight and is effective after a few minutes upon applications. Higher risk of skin irritation but there is no white cast and can feel light.
  • Physical Sunscreen: Act as a barrier to your skin which allows sunlight to bounce off. Uses mineral based-ingredients which is effective upon application. Great for sensitive skin as this is less irritation to the skin.

Recommendations

Aim for a sunscreen with at least 30 SPF but personally, I would recommend going for an SPF of 50+ and Pa ++++. (Products are affiliated)

What is SPF and Pa +?

SPF stands for sun protection factor and the Pa + means the protection grade. SPF indicates protection against UVB while the Pa +(+++) indicates protection against UVA rays.

Facts from the NFCR (National Foundation for Cancer Research)

  • Broad-spectrum sunscreens are best
  • No sunscreen is waterproof or sweatproof
  • Children under 6 months typically should not wear sunscreen
  • Sunscreen expires
  • Spray-On sunscreens are convenient, but not always effective

Important tips/last word of advice: Do apply enough sunscreen to cover not just the face but the whole body as well, or you can combine with protective clothing.


References: https://www.nfcr.org/blog/9-must-know-facts-about-sunscreen/