Exposure to the sun is necessary for everyone to create vitamin D, which helps in calcium absorption for stronger and healthier bones. However, if left unprotected, ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can harm the skin, eyes, and immune system. Cancer may also result from it. Other elements including heredity and environment also play a role. However, exposure to UV rays and sunburns can harm the skin. Skin cancer or early skin aging (photoaging) may result from this kind of damage.
What does tanning do to the skin?
When exposed to UV rays, the skin responds by tanning, a process where it produces increased amounts of melanin, the pigment responsible for the skin's color change. It's essential to note that tanning doesn't provide protection against skin cancer; in fact, it's crucial to take measures to avoid overexposure to UV rays to reduce the risk of developing skin cancer.
What is ultraviolet radiation?
Visible, infrared, and ultraviolet (UV) light travel from the sun to the earth.
The wavelengths of ultraviolet A (UVA) range from 320 to 400 nm (nanometers).
Wavelengths of ultraviolet B (UVB) range from 280 to 320 nm.
Wavelengths of ultraviolet C (UVC) range from 100 to 280 nm.
The only ultraviolet photons that reach the earth's surface are UVA and UVB. UVC wavelengths are absorbed by the Earth's atmosphere.
UVB rays elevate the risk of skin cancer more than UVA rays. Conversely, exposure to UVA rays contributes to aging, causing wrinkles and a loss of skin elasticity. It's important to note that UVA rays can exacerbate the detrimental effects of UVB, such as skin cancer and cataracts.
#1 - UVB
SPF ( sun protection factor) is a measurement of UVB protection.
SPF 30 blocks 96% for 2 hours;
SPF 15 blocks 93%,
SPF 50 blocks 98%,
SPF 70 blocks 98.5%
#2 - UVA
Present from sunrise to sunset
Present on cloudy days, even in winter
Passes through windows
Penetrates deep into the dermis
Causes up to 80% of skin damage
"Slip Slop Slap!" Slip, Slop, Slap! Slip on a shirt, slop on sunscreen and slap on a hat, Slip, Slop, Slap! You can stop skin cancer" – Cancer Council's SunSmart program.
#3 - Sun protection tips
Choose a sunscreen and test it on your wrist before using it. If you develop skin or eye irritation, choose another brand. Apply the sunscreen very carefully around the eyes.
Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that filters out both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays.
Apply sunscreens to all exposed areas of skin, including easily overlooked areas. This includes the rims of the ears, the lips, the back of the neck, and the tops of the feet.
Use sunscreens for all children over 6 months old. It doesn’t matter what skin or complexion type the child has. All skin types need protection from UV rays. Even dark-skinned children can have painful sunburns.
Apply sunscreens 30 minutes before going out into the sun to give it time to work. Use it liberally and reapply it every 2 hours after being in the water or after exercising or sweating. Sunscreens are not just for the beach. Use them when you are working in the yard or playing sports.
Use a waterproof or water-resistant sunscreen and reapply it after swimming or sweating heavily.
Using sunscreen with an SPF of 20 to 30 offers substantial protection from sunburn and prevents tanning. High SPF sunscreens protect from burning for longer periods of time than sunscreens with a lower SPF. SPF 15 blocks 93% of the UVB and SPF 30 blocks 97%. Talk with your older child or teen about using sunscreen and why it's important. Set a good example for them by using sunscreen yourself.
Take precautions by wearing protective clothing like long-sleeved shirts, pants, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses whenever feasible.
When necessary, seek shade, particularly between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun is at its strongest.
#4 - Best face sunscreens
Banana Boat Light as Air Face SPF 50+
SPF: 50+
Type of protection: chemical
Active ingredients: avobenzone (3%), homosalate (9%), octisalate (4%), octocrylene (5%)
2. Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30
SPF: 30
Type of protection: chemical
Active ingredients: avobenzone (3%), homosalate (10%), octisalate (5%), octocrylene (2.75%)
3. EltaMD UV Sport Broad Spectrum SPF 50
Active ingredient: Zinc oxide
SPF: 50
4. Avene Solaire UV Mineral Multi-Defense Sunscreen Fluid SPF 50+
Active ingredients: Niacinamide, zinc oxide
SPF: 50
5. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Ultra-Light Face Sunscreen SPF 50
Active ingredients: Titanium dioxide, zinc oxide
SPF: 50
6. Sun Bum Face 50
Active ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene
SPF: 50
7. SkinCeuticals Sheer Physical UV Defense SPF 50
Active ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide
SPF: 30
8. Blue Lizard Sensitive Face Mineral Sunscreen
Active ingredient: Zinc oxide
SPF: 30
9. Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield Flex SPF
Active ingredients: Antioxidants, iron oxide, zinc oxide
SPF: 50
10. Versed Guards Up Daily Mineral Sunscreen
Active ingredient: Non-nano zinc oxide
SPF: 35
Disclaimer
I am not a doctor or dermatologist. The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional or dermatologist before making any significant changes to your skincare routine.
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