Summer is coming… It is the perfect season for long hours of swimming, sunbathing and lazing around. Although most of us love the sun, we are not sure of its love for us. Because sun rays can leave permanent damage to our skin and cause wrinkles, premature aging, and even skin cancer if it reaches very advanced levels. However, with proper protection, it is possible to take advantage of the sun and spend time under it. This summer; more precisely, it is your best friend that you should always be with you to prevent your skin from being damaged in every season you are exposed to the sun: a sunscreen cream, that is, a product containing SPF..
You must have heard about how important it is to use sunscreen when spending time outside. Experts recommend choosing a sunscreen with broad-spectrum UV protection of at least SPF 30. And its ideal use is to apply to the skin 30 minutes before going out in the sun. Read on to learn more about SPF and how to protect your skin from the sun.
What is SPF?
SPF is short for sun protection factor. The SPF in sunscreen helps protect your skin from the sun’s rays.
The sun emits two types of radiation: UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays accelerate signs of aging such as wrinkles and sagging skin. UVB rays are more carcinogenic and are generally responsible for sunburns. UVA rays also make UVB rays more reactive, so the two together can be extremely harmful.
When you are outside or near a sunlit window, you are exposed to harmful radiation from the sun. Even if your skin is not prone to sunburn, this radiation affects it negatively.
SPF works by expanding your skin’s natural defenses against the sun’s rays. For example, an SPF of 15 provides approximately 15 times more protection than your skin without sunscreen.
Why is SPF important for your skin?
SPF indicates the sunscreen’s ability to block UVB rays. But not all sunscreens are equally effective. Before using them, it’s important to understand exactly what they do. Skin experts warn about SPF not to think that we can get twice as much protection as the protection factor increases.
The generally recommended SPF protection is 30. In addition, you should reapply your sunscreen every 2-3 hours and you should not spend long hours under the sun, thinking that you are completely protected. SPF in sunscreen creams usually refers to protection from UVB rays, not UVA. That’s why it’s important to look for the “broad spectrum” label when choosing. Because this expression means that it provides protection from both UVA and UVB rays. Consider your skin characteristics when choosing sunscreen. More importantly, remember that the best sunscreen is used correctly.
Important Note: Many people think that dark-skinned people do not need sunscreen. However, there are various studies showing that the incidence of skin cancer types that cause life-threatening risks is higher among dark-skinned people
What should be considered when choosing sunscreen?
You should use an SPF 30 based moisturizer in daily life. For example , Simple Protect and Glow Triple Protection SPF30 Moisturizer provides triple protection against UVA/B rays, pollution and blue light. It helps prevent premature aging effects.
Of course, you should use your sunscreen when doing activities where you are more exposed to the sun, such as sunbathing and swimming in the sea, which will require you to stay under the sun for long hours. So, what should you consider when choosing sunscreen?
- Water-resistant sunscreens provide good protection for water activities, but may not be suitable if you’re doing a sport that will cause SPF to drip into your eyes. At this point, it should be noted that no sunscreen is completely waterproof.
- Broad spectrum sunscreens protect you against both UVA and UVB rays. That’s why it’s always a good idea to look for such a protector.
- A very low SPF or a very high SPF? Consumer Reports reveals that you should be careful when choosing a low SPF. Experts also state that a protection higher than SPF 50 cannot be provided.
- In summary, using sunscreen cream is an effective way to reduce the negative effects of radiation from the sun. People of all ages and skin tones should use a cream with an SPF of at least 30 during all outdoor activities. Additionally, you shouldn’t rely solely on sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun’s rays. Protective clothing and shade can also help protect you from the sun.
