Why Sunscreen is important and how to use it?

Dadu Medical Centre

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Why Sunscreen is important and how to use it?

Dr. Nivedita Dadu June 19, 2024

Incorporating sunscreen in your daily skincare routine, regardless of weather factors and whether you are indoors or outdoors is very important. Sunscreen protects you from the harmful ultraviolet, popularly known as UV rays. UV rays are very harmful for our skin. UV rays penetrate into our skin through windows which further leads to damaging our skin and causing premature ageing.

Here are two important benefits of using sunscreen daily:

  • Protection from UV Rays: UV rays can cause major skin concerns including skin damage and premature ageing.
  • Protection from Premature Ageing: Daily usage of sunscreen also helps greatly in preventing wrinkles, age spots and other signs of ageing.

Let's understand the importance of applying sunscreen indoors:

Well, there's a big myth all across that sunscreen is only important outdoors, because indoor environments are not exposed to sunlight and they are free from UV exposure. But let us correct you all, that this fact is incorrect. Here are a few points suggesting you importance of sunscreen indoors.

  • UV rays from Artificial Lights: You know many artificial indoor lights, including tubes, bulbs and light from laptops and computer contains Blue Light that can cause damage to your skin over the time leading to pigmentation and early signs of ageing
  • UV Rays through Windows: UV rays from sunlight can easily be penetrated in our skin through glass windows as well and definitely affect you when you are out in the sun.

How To Choose The Right Sunscreen for Your Skin?

Incorporating sunscreen in your daily skincare is important and good, but do you know what's more important? The important thing is to incorporate the right sunscreen in your skincare, if you want optimal results.

Here are few tips or you to choose the right sunscreen:

  • SPF 40+ : For effective and optimal results, you must choose sunscreen with SPF 40 or higher. Sunscreen below SPF 40 will be insufficient to protect you from the harmful UV rays.
  • Broad Spectrum Protection: Always ensure that your sunscreen offers broad spectrum protection, which covers both UVA and UVB rays.
  1. PA Rating- While choosing your sunscreen please ensure that the PA rating of your sunscreen is +++, for optimal coverage and protection
  • Formulation based on Skin Type:
  1. If you have dry and mature skin then you must opt for cream-based sunscreen for added moisture.
  2. If you have oily skin type, then you must opt for emulsion based sunscreen, because they are easily absorbed in the skin and also help in reducing greasiness.
  3. If you have sensitive skin then physical sunscreens or mineral sunscreens are best for your skin, because they are less likely to cause skin irritation.

Correct ways to apply Sunscreen:

Proper application of sunscreen is very important for optimal results.

  • Coverage: Always apply sunscreen to all the exposed areas of your body, including your face, neck, ears, hands and feet.
  • Quantity: Always apply a generous amount of sunscreen with your fingers. Using fingers will help you in ensuring even application.
  • Reapplication: Another tip to remember is to reapply sunscreen every 2-4 hours if you are out in the sun constantly, and after sweating and towel drying.

Types of Sunscreens:

There are basically 2 types of sunscreens, Physical sunscreen and Chemical sunscreen.

  • Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, which is then released from skin. Chemical sunscreens are very lightweight and less visible on skin.
  • Physical sunscreens, also popularly known as mineral sunscreen, sit on top of the skin and reflect UV rays. They are most suitable for sensitive skin.

Sunscreen is an undeniable part of our skincare, which offers protection against the harmful effects of UV rays. So now after this insightful journey about sunscreen, we hope you will incorporate sunscreen in your daily skin routine and also choose the suitable sunscreen for your skin.

 

Dr. Nivedita Dadu

Dr. Nivedita Dadu

Dr. Nivedita Dadu is a renowned dermatologist with over 18 years of experience, specializing in advanced dermatology treatments and cosmetology. She founded the Dadu Medical Centre, which is known for its state-of-the-art facilities and comprehensive skin care solutions. Dr. Dadu is also a member of various prestigious dermatology associations and actively participates in national and international conferences. She regularly contributes to several medical journals, newspapers, clinical research, and conducts lectures all over the country and internationally.

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