When to apply sunscreen and what are the benefits of sunscreens?

Wearing sunscreen is one of the best - and easiest - ways to protect the appearance and health of your skin at any age. When used regularly, sunscreen helps prevent sunburn, skin cancer and premature aging.

Sunscreens are the easiest way to protect yourself from the sun's dangerous rays. However, applying them on the beach is not enough. There is much to learn about sunscreens and which one is best for each stay in the sun. 

WHAT IS THE USE OF SUNSCREENS?

The main reason for using sunscreen is to protect your skin from the broad spectrum of harmful UV rays from the sun. Applying sunscreen helps ward off harmful UV rays because it acts like a barrier on your skin. So, using a sunscreen with SPF can help reduce the intensity of sunburn and inflammation.

WHEN TO APPLY SUNSCREENS?

• Apply the sunscreen about 30 minutes before going out in the sun (for best results), so that it can be absorbed by the skin and is not easily washed off when you sweat.
• Remember to reapply sunscreen after swimming or strenuous exercise.
• If you work outdoors, apply lotion frequently during the day and wear hats and protective clothing.

WHO SHOULD USE SUNSCREENS?

Everyone who spends time outdoors should use a sunscreen. This includes men, women, and children; people who tan easily and those who don't; light-skinned and dark-skinned people; people who are already tan; sunbathers, gardeners, and skiers. Sunscreens are safe for children and can prevent the development of skin cancer later in life.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF SUNSCREENS?

Protects your skin from UV rays

Sun damage from UV rays can irritate people with sun-sensitive conditions such as lupus and rosacea. In these conditions, exposure to UV rays can cause redness and burning of the skin and increase its severity. Using a broad spectrum sunscreen protects the skin from UV rays by absorbing, reflecting or scattering sunlight.

Prevents premature ageing

Sun damage is one of the most common causes of premature skin ageing. The sun's harsh UV rays cause collagen to break down, contributing to fine lines, sagging and wrinkles. UV rays also damage pigment-producing cells called melanocytes, which leads to overproduction of melanin, resulting in hyperpigmentation. To avoid these signs of ageing and look more youthful, apply sunscreen daily.

Provides an even skin tone

Excessive sun exposure can cause uneven skin tone such as dark/brown spots and discoloration. You can avoid this skin damage by including sunscreen in your daily skin care regimen.

Reduces skin inflammation

Harmful sun rays damage the DNA of immune protection cells, causing inflammation and free radical damage to the skin and body. This can be challenging for people with sensitive and redness-prone skin. Wearing sunscreen daily helps prevent inflammation from harmful rays.

Reduces the risk of skin cancer

The most important reason you should use sunscreen is that it protects you from developing skin cancer. The three most common types of skin cancer are basal cell cancer, squamous cell cancer and melanoma. UV rays are the main risk factor for developing these skin cancers. If you apply sunscreen every day, you will cut your risk of developing skin cancer in half.