As the warmer weather is fast approaching you may be starting to think about protecting our skin and wearing a sunscreen. You see adverts around all the time in shops, magazines, and through social media. You may be asking yourself why should I wear sunscreen when the sun is not even shining. This blog will hopefully help you understand the importance of why exactly you should be wearing a sunscreen everyday and include it as part of your daily skin care regime.
Wearing sunscreen is incredibly important for several reasons:
1. Protection from skin cancer: The most significant benefit of wearing sunscreen is that it protects the skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. These UV rays can cause skin cancer, including melanoma, which is the deadliest form of skin cancer.
2. Prevents premature aging: UV rays from the sun can damage the skin’s collagen and elastin fibers, leading to premature aging. Wearing sunscreen can help prevent this damage and keep the skin looking youthful.
3. Prevents sunburns: Sunburns are not only painful but also increase the risk of developing skin cancer. Sunscreen can help prevent sunburns by blocking the UV rays from penetrating the skin.
4. Reduces risk of hyperpigmentation: UV rays can cause hyperpigmentation or dark spots on the skin. Wearing sunscreen can help prevent this by blocking the UV rays that cause the darkening of the skin.
Wearing sunscreen is crucial part of our daily skin care routine and for protecting the skin from the harmful effects of the sun. It is recommended to wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and to reapply every two hours when exposed to the sun.
With so many different sunscreens on the market it can be difficult to decide which one to choose.
What is the the difference between a physical and chemical sunscreen.
Physical and chemical sunscreens are two different types of sunscreens that work in different ways to protect the skin from the sun’s harmful rays:
1. Physical Sunscreen: Physical sunscreens contain mineral ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide that sit on top of the skin and reflect or scatter the UV rays away from the skin. They work as a physical barrier to block the sun’s rays, and they start working immediately after application. Physical sunscreens are generally considered safe for all skin types, even for those with sensitive skin.
2. Chemical Sunscreen: Chemical sunscreens contain organic (carbon-based) compounds that absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, which is then released from the skin. They work by penetrating the skin and absorbing the UV rays before they can cause damage. Chemical sunscreens take about 20 minutes to start working and need to be applied before sun exposure. Some people with sensitive skin may be allergic to the ingredients in chemical sunscreens.
Both a physical and chemical sunscreens provide protection against the sun’s harmful rays, but they work differently. Physical sunscreens create a physical barrier, while chemical sunscreens work by absorbing the UV rays. It is important to choose a sunscreen that suits your skin type and offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
Risk associated with sunburn.
Getting sunburnt is painful and can lead to serious skin damage. Sunburn is a type of skin damage caused by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Sunburn can have serious consequences, including:
1. Increased risk of skin cancer: Sunburn damages the DNA in skin cells, which can lead to mutations that cause skin cancer, including melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.
2. Accelerated aging: Sunburn can cause premature aging of the skin, including wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots.
3. Eye damage: Too much sun exposure can also damage the eyes, leading to conditions like cataracts and macular degeneration.
4. Immune system suppression: Sunburn can also suppress the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infections.
5. Dehydration: Sunburn can cause dehydration, which can lead to dizziness, weakness, and other symptoms.
It is essential to protect the skin from the sun’s harmful rays by wearing protective clothing, seeking shade, and applying sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Sunburn can be painful and uncomfortable, and it is essential to take immediate action to treat it, including taking pain relievers, applying cool compresses, and drinking plenty of fluids. If you experience severe sunburn or blisters, it is important to seek medical attention.
At Cosmedica Clinics we are able to advise you on a suitable sunscreen for your skin type. Whether you are looking for a matt or sheen finish, clear or tinted coverage we have many to choose from. We are stockist for Obagi®, Alumier® MD and Heliocare. All these sunscreens are excellent choices if you are looking for a non-greasy, easily absorbed sun protection. They offer broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays and are ideal for those with oily, combination, dry or sensitive skin. We can also treat hyperpigmentation, sun and age spots using prescription strength topical treatments, skin peels and Dermalux® Tri-Wave LED phototherapy.
If you would like to know more then please contact the clinic and Vicky will be able to advise you.
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