I am very fair skinned and tend to burn very easily, even in the shade, it’s a bit of a running joke, to my friends and family, that I burn when it’s raining or snowing and I will always be seen slapping sunscreen on no matter where the sun happens to be.
However I was not as sensible or careful as a teenager and into my adulthood about my skin and sun exposure (baby oil on my legs to get a tan, when the weather was hot, can anyone else remember doing that, I shudder in horror now) and my mother used to nag me about sun protection and I am sorry to say I didn’t always listen to her.
But I am a reformed character now, and don’t let my skin burn if I can avoid it and a tan is not a life essential and here are my why’s for why sunscreen is an essential part of my skincare regime.
Whilst exposure to sun and warmer weather is beneficial and every needs a daily dose of sunshine on their faces, and you can do this safely, without sun burn and skin damage.
- Protection against UV rays: The sun emits ultraviolet (UV) rays, which are divided into UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays penetrate the skin deeply and contribute to premature aging, while UVB rays are responsible for sunburns. Both types of UV rays can cause long-term damage, including skin cancer. Using sunscreen helps create a barrier that absorbs or reflects these harmful rays, preventing them from penetrating the skin and causing damage.
- Prevention of Premature Aging: Sun exposure is a leading cause of premature aging. UV rays can break down collagen and elastin fibers in the skin, leading to wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging. By applying sunscreen regularly, you create a protective shield against these harmful effects, helping to maintain your skin’s elasticity and youthful appearance throughout the year.
- Reduced Risk of Skin Cancer: Skin cancer is a serious health concern, and excessive sun exposure is a significant risk factor. Using sunscreen is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of developing skin cancer. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Applying sunscreen daily can significantly contribute to the prevention of skin cancer, including melanoma, the deadliest form of the disease.
- Prevention of Hyperpigmentation: Sun exposure can lead to the development of hyperpigmentation, such as sunspots, age spots, and melasma. These darkened areas of the skin result from an overproduction of melanin triggered by UV rays. Consistent use of sunscreen helps prevent the formation of these unwanted pigmented areas, ensuring a more even skin tone and reducing the need for corrective treatments in the future.
- Protection on Cloudy Days: Even on cloudy or overcast days, UV rays can penetrate the atmosphere and reach your skin. Many people mistakenly believe that they are safe from sun damage on cloudy days and skip sunscreen. However, UV rays can still cause harm even when the sun is not visibly shining. Therefore, using sunscreen every day, regardless of the weather, is essential for comprehensive sun protection.
- Prevention of Photodermatitis: Some individuals may experience a skin condition known as photodermatitis, which is an abnormal skin reaction to sunlight. This condition can result in redness, itching, and blistering. Sunscreen helps protect against photodermatitis by acting as a barrier between the skin and the UV rays that trigger these adverse reactions.
- Maintaining Overall Skin Health: Sun damage not only affects the appearance of the skin but also its overall health. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can lead to dryness, dehydration, and a compromised skin barrier. Sunscreen helps to retain moisture, preventing the skin from becoming dry and maintaining its natural protective barrier. This, in turn, contributes to healthier and more resilient skin throughout the entire year.
Honestly, the importance of using sunscreen all year round cannot be overstated. It is a fundamental step in maintaining healthy, youthful skin and preventing a range of skin-related issues, including premature aging and skin cancer. By making sunscreen a daily habit, you invest in the long-term health and well-being of your skin, ensuring that it remains protected against the harmful effects of UV radiation regardless of the season.