Sunscreen is an essential skincare product that is often overlooked.It is a protective barrier that helps to shield your skin from the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can cause damage and lead to skin cancer (along with ruining a vacation if a burn occurs...). By now, most everyone understands the basics of SPF but lets breakdown the importance of sunscreen and its benefits.
What is sunscreen?
Sunscreen, also known as sunblock or spf, is a topical product that is designed to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays. It is available in different forms, such as lotions, creams, gels, sprays, and sticks, and comes in different levels of SPF (sun protection factor). It even comes in chemical and physical barriers. The SPF rating indicates how long the product can protect your skin from the sun's UVB rays, but don't let this fool you. Just because it has a 50 SPF doesn't mean it will last 2x's as long as 25 SPF. It has a 2x's better barrier, but it will not last twice as long. Continuous application throughout the day is required.
Not only does it protect the skin, but sunscreen is essential for maintaining healthy skin and preventing skin aging. The sun's UV rays can penetrate your skin and cause a variety of skin problems, including:
Sunburn - Sunburn occurs when your skin is exposed to too much UV radiation. Sunburned skin is red, painful, and can peel or blister.
Premature aging - Prolonged exposure to the sun can cause premature aging, including fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots.
Skin cancer - Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. Exposure to UV radiation is the primary cause of skin cancer.
One of the best ways to protect the skin from pre-mature aging is protect your skin in your 20's and 30's. This means staying sun smart and applying a professional grade SPF such as EltaMD, Vivier sunscreen or ZO sunscreen.
Taking the appropriate steps in the earlier years will have a great benefit to your skin. A great example of this is the truck driver that has been circulated on the web. The one side of her face that experienced sun exposure due to her job has significant more wrinkles and fine lines than the side that didn't receive sun exposure. It is a phenomenal before/after of the effects the sun. So if you are going to do one daily thing to reduce the signs of aging, apply sunscreen.
Here are the benefits of SPF listed:
Protection from UV rays - Sunscreen helps to protect your skin from the sun's harmful UV rays, reducing your risk of sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer.
Even skin tone - Sun damage can cause uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation. Sunscreen can help to prevent these issues and promote even skin tone.
Moisturization - Many sunscreens contain moisturizing ingredients that can help to keep your skin hydrated and soft.
Prevents sun damage - Sun damage can cause a variety of skin problems, including wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots. Using sunscreen regularly can help to prevent these issues and keep your skin looking healthy.
Safe for all skin types - Sunscreen is safe for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It is essential to choose a sunscreen that is appropriate for your skin type and has been dermatologist-tested.
While there are many ways to reduce the signs of aging, sunscreen is an essential skincare product that should be a part of your daily routine. It provides protection from the sun's harmful UV rays and can prevent a variety of skin problems, including premature aging and skin cancer. Make sure to choose a sunscreen that is appropriate for your skin type and has a high SPF rating to ensure maximum protection.
Check out our Kelowna (110-810 Clement Ave.)or West Kelowna Clinic (2437 Main Street) to find out which sunscreens are right for your skin type.