5 Amazing Benefits Of Applying Sunscreen

During Indian summers, when temperatures soar, we often indulge in foods that help us combat the heat. However, amidst our focus on staying cool, we often overlook the vulnerability of our skin to the scorching sun.

Protecting our skin with sunscreen is paramount. It serves as a shield against the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation, which can lead to pigmentation, discoloration, sunburns, and premature aging. Even on overcast days, our skin remains susceptible to damage, highlighting the necessity of keeping sunscreen readily available.

SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, is a crucial consideration when selecting sunscreen. Contrary to common misconceptions, SPF does not indicate the duration of protection. Rather, it signifies the degree of protection against solar exposure.

The effectiveness of SPF varies with factors such as the time of day and geographic location. For instance, exposure to the midday sun poses a greater risk than morning sun exposure. Additionally, SPF requirements are influenced by individual skin types and the duration of exposure.

Experts typically recommend SPF 15 sunscreen for adequate protection. However, proper application is key. Applying approximately 2mg/cm2 of sunscreen and reapplying every two hours is essential for optimal protection.

Skin tone also plays a role in determining sunscreen needs, as fair-skinned individuals are more susceptible to solar energy absorption. However, regardless of skin tone, applying the correct amount of sunscreen at regular intervals is crucial.

Sunscreen efficacy diminishes over time and with activities that cause sweating, necessitating frequent reapplication. The reapplication frequency should align with the intensity of sun exposure and individual activity levels, ranging from every half-hour during intense midday sun exposure to every two hours during milder morning sun exposure.

Amazing Benefits of Applying Sunscreen

# Minimize Sunburn Risk

The primary benefit of sunscreen application is shielding your skin from sunburns, which can occur even after brief exposure to sunlight. Venturing outdoors without sunscreen can result in tans, and prolonged exposure may lead to skin cancer, premature aging, and various skin ailments.

These adverse effects can be mitigated by using sunscreen regularly. Should you experience burns or blisters, seeking advice from a dermatologist is advisable.

# Prevent Ageing Signs

Frequent sun exposure without sunscreen can harm elastin, skin cells, and collagen, accelerating the appearance of aging signs such as wrinkles, discoloration, fine lines, and a weathered skin texture.

By applying sunscreen, you can decelerate the onset of aging signs caused by sun exposure, especially if you spend prolonged periods outdoors.

# Lower Skin Cancer Risk

Extended exposure to harmful ultraviolet rays heightens the risk of skin cancer, as these rays can harm skin cells and foster the development of abnormal cell growth. Sunscreen acts as a protective barrier, inhibiting the onset of such conditions.

Sunscreen with an SPF of 30 can significantly decrease the likelihood of developing skin cancer. For extended sun exposure, opting for a higher SPF is advisable.

# Prevent Skin Discoloration

Skin discoloration, characterized by uneven skin tone, often results from unprotected sun exposure. Regions affected by such exposure are often termed sunspots or liver spots, irrespective of skin tone, these spots can induce brown discoloration, typically appearing on the head, hands, arms, and face.

Regular sunscreen application can prevent such discoloration, promoting an even skin tone while safeguarding underlying skin cells.

# Alleviate Inflammation

Prolonged sun exposure can trigger inflammation of skin cells, leading to discomfort and skin redness. Individuals with conditions like psoriasis are particularly susceptible to sun-induced inflammation. For those with sensitive skin, opting for sunscreens containing ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide is advisable.

Avoiding spray-on sunscreens containing potentially harmful ingredients like alcohol is recommended, as these ingredients can exacerbate skin dryness and foster irritation and inflammation.