Why You Should Never Forget To Wear Sunscreen

Most of us know the importance of wearing sunscreen in the summer months to avoid sunburn and damage, but it really should be a year-round preventive health measure. Always wear sunscreen, no matter your skin color or tone.

Why You Should Always Wear Sunscreen, Even on Cloudy Days Up to 80 percent of the sun’s rays can pass through clouds, so if you assume it’s OK to forget protection on an overcast day, think again. Sunscreen is an important preventive health care habit that should be maintained all year, including the winter months. When in doubt: always wear sunscreen!

Here are the top Four reasons why applying sunscreen should be a daily habit 

• It Protects Your Skin from UV Rays: The depletion of the ozone layer has increased our risk of sun damage from harmful UV rays. Sunscreen blocks these rays, greatly reducing the likelihood of sunburn. 

• It Lowers Your Skin Cancer Risk: Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer. By applying sunscreen each day, you cut your risk of contracting skin cancers in half.

• It Prevents Premature Aging of the Skin: Sun damage from UV rays causes photoaging of the skin, which is characterized by a thick, leathery look; discoloration; and a breakdown of collagen, which contributes to lines, sagging and wrinkles. Studies show that those below age 55 who apply sunscreen regularly have 24 percent less chance of developing these signs of aging than those who don’t.

• It Helps Maintain an Even Skin Tone: Sunscreen helps prevent discoloration and dark spots from sun damage, helping you maintain a smoother and more even skin tone.

WHAT IS SPF?

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, and it’s the measure of how long a product will protect you from UVB rays. A broad-spectrum sunscreen includes ingredients that protect against both UVA and UVB rays.

Interestingly, a higher SPF number does not necessarily mean your skin will be more protected. While there are products available ranging from SPF 7 to SPF 70, it’s sufficient to use a product that is SPF 15 or SPF 30 — as long as you apply liberally and reapply. In fact, most skin care professionals recommend reapplying every two hours, regardless of the SPF level and especially when you’re swimming and sweating.

The key to using sunscreen, no matter the SPF, is to apply carefully, and reapply frequently.

A few important tips:

+ When purchasing a sunscreen, choose a broad-spectrum product to ensure that it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

+ Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are two key ingredients to look for in sunscreen products.

+ For face sunscreens, choose a product that is non-comedogenic to prevent clogged pores.

+ Sunscreen should be applied approximately 30 minutes before being in the sun.

+ Reapply frequently through the day, especially after contact with water or exercising.

Regardless of Genders and Age, you need sunscreen in your daily routine. DO NOT FORGET TO USE IT!! EVER !!