When we think about Sunscreen, Summer
days at the beach often come to mind. However, Sunscreen is not just for Sunny
outings, it’s a daily necessity to protect our Skin from harmful Ultraviolet
(UV) radiation, which impacts us all year round.
Here's why incorporating Sunscreen
into your daily routine is one of the best steps you can take for your Skin's
health and longevity.
UV Radiation and Its Effects
UV rays are present even on cloudy days, with up to 80% of them penetrating through clouds. UVB rays are primarily responsible for sunburns, while UVA rays penetrate deeper, causing premature aging, hyperpigmentation and increasing the risk of Skin Cancer. Both, UVA & UVB rays can potentially cause Skin damage, thus making essential the use of a Broad-spectrum Sunscreens year-round.
Parameters Considered for Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen
- SPF (Sun Protection Factor): SPF measures sunscreen protection from UVB rays, the kind that cause sunburn and contribute to skin cancer.
- Critical Wavelength (CW): Indicates the wavelength where 90% of the Sunscreen’s UV absorption occurs. A CW of 370 nm or higher signifies adequate protection against longer UVA wavelengths, a key requirement for broad-spectrum designation.
- Persistent Pigment Darkening (PPD): PPD method is a method of measuring UVA protection, similar to the SPF method of measuring sunburn protection. PA system: The PA system is based on the PPD reaction and is now widely adopted on the labels of Sunscreens
Key Considerations for Daily Sunscreen Use
- Choose Broad-Spectrum
Protection: Ensure your Sunscreen guards against both UVA and UVB rays.
- Opt for SPF 30 or
Higher: SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while higher SPFs provide
marginally more protection.
- Reapply Every Two
Hours:
Sunscreen effectiveness diminishes over time, especially with sweating or
swimming, hence it is advised to Reapply Sunscreen every 2 Hours.
Why Sunscreen Is Vital in Winter?
Even during Colder months, UV rays
remain strong enough to cause Skin damage. UV Rays can also Pass Through Clouds
increasing exposure. Moreover, higher altitudes intensify UV radiation, making Sunscreen
equally crucial in winter.
Remember!
Sunscreen isn't just for summer; it's
a critical part of a healthy skincare routine, regardless of the season.
Protecting your skin in winter helps prevent premature aging, tanning,
uneven pigmentation and keeps skin looking healthy and radiant.
Start protecting your Skin year-round! it’s the ultimate act of Self-care.
References:
- https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-prevention/sun-protection/sunscreen/
- https://dermnetnz.org/topics/topical-sunscreen-agents.
- https://www.uchicagomedicine.org/forefront/health-and-wellness-articles/explaining-the-science-of-sunscreen