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Don't Forget Your Sunscreen!
- Stephanie Ray
- May 9
- 4 min read
Stephanie Ray RN, BSN
The Importance of Sunscreen: Protecting Your Skin All Year Round
When it comes to skincare, one product that often gets overlooked is sunscreen. While we all know that wearing sunscreen is crucial in the summer months, it’s just as important during the colder seasons, cloudy days, and even indoors. Sunscreens help protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun, preventing premature aging, burns, and even skin cancer.
What Exactly is Sunscreen?
Sunscreen is a lotion, spray, gel, or stick designed to protect your skin from the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. These UV rays are classified into two types: UVA and UVB. UVA rays are responsible for aging your skin (think wrinkles and fine lines), while UVB rays are the primary cause of sunburn. Sunscreens work by either absorbing or reflecting these harmful rays away from your skin, preventing damage.
Why Sunscreen is a Must-Have
Preventing Skin Cancer: Overexposure to UV radiation is a significant risk factor for skin cancer, including melanoma. By wearing sunscreen, you reduce your risk of developing skin cancer in the future.
Protecting Against Premature Aging: UV exposure can accelerate skin aging, leading to wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots. Sunscreen helps preserve your skin's youthful appearance by blocking out the harmful rays that cause these changes.
Avoiding Sunburn: Sunburns are painful and damaging to your skin. Sunscreen acts as a barrier, preventing the skin from burning and reducing the risk of long-term damage.
Maintaining Even Skin Tone: Sunscreen helps avoid discoloration and pigmentation caused by sun exposure. If you're trying to maintain a clear and even complexion, it's essential to make sunscreen a regular part of your routine.
Understanding SPF
SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, is a measure of how well a sunscreen protects against UVB rays. A higher SPF means more protection, but it doesn’t mean you can stay out in the sun all day without reapplying. For example:
SPF 15 blocks about 93% of UVB rays
SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays
SPF 50 blocks about 98% of UVB rays
While SPF 50 provides the highest level of protection, it’s still essential to reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more often if you’re sweating or swimming.
Types of Sunscreens
There are two main types of sunscreens: physical (mineral) sunscreens and chemical sunscreens. Here’s a breakdown of each:
Physical Sunscreens: These contain active mineral ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which sit on top of the skin and physically block UV rays. They start working immediately after application and are ideal for sensitive skin. They’re often thicker in consistency and can leave a white residue.
Chemical Sunscreens: These contain active ingredients like avobenzone, octinoxate, or oxybenzone, which absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, preventing the rays from penetrating your skin. They tend to be lighter on the skin and are often less visible, but some people with sensitive skin may experience irritation from certain ingredients.
How to Choose the Right Sunscreen for You
Know Your Skin Type: If you have sensitive skin, look for mineral-based sunscreens that are free of fragrances and chemicals. For oily or acne-prone skin, consider non-comedogenic sunscreens that won’t clog your pores.
Consider Water Resistance: If you plan to swim or sweat a lot, opt for water-resistant sunscreen. While no sunscreen is completely waterproof, water-resistant formulas stay on the skin longer when exposed to water.
Broad-Spectrum Protection: Choose a sunscreen that offers "broad-spectrum" protection, meaning it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. This ensures you get complete protection from the sun’s harmful effects.
Sunscreen Tips for Everyday Use
Apply Generously: Most people don't apply enough sunscreen. To cover your entire body, aim for about one ounce (a shot glass full) for full-body protection. For your face, use about a nickel-sized amount.
Reapply Often: Sunscreen wears off over time due to sweating, swimming, and even just by rubbing your skin. Reapply every two hours, or more often if you're in water or sweating.
Don’t Forget the Extras: Areas like your ears, back of the neck, and the tops of your hands and feet are often overlooked but can be just as susceptible to sun damage. Make sure to apply sunscreen to these areas as well.
Stay Safe in the Shade: While sunscreen is essential, it’s always a good idea to stay in the shade during peak sun hours (usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.) to reduce your overall sun exposure.
Sunscreen Myths Debunked
"I don’t need sunscreen on cloudy days": UV rays can penetrate through clouds, so you should wear sunscreen every day, even when it's overcast.
"Sunscreen is only for the beach": UV exposure can occur anytime you’re outdoors. Whether walking to work, sitting in a car, or jogging, sunscreen is essential.
"I don’t need sunscreen if I have dark skin.": People with darker skin tones have more melanin, which provides some natural protection against UV rays, but they are still at risk for sunburn and skin damage. Everyone, regardless of skin tone, should wear sunscreen.
Final Thoughts
Making sunscreen a part of your daily skincare routine is one of the best things you can do for your skin. It’s not just about protecting yourself from sunburn—it's about long-term health and preservation of your skin. So, whether you’re heading to the beach or simply stepping outside for a walk, don’t forget to apply sunscreen and take care of your skin!
Sources:
https://www.aad.org
https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/skin/index.htm
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/expert-answers/sunscreen/faq-20058491
https://www.skincancer.org
Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board
