how to use, benefits and types of health sunscreen

One effective way to maintain healthy skin is by protecting it from the sun. Adding sunscreen as a daily skincare product will help shield the skin from the dangers of UV rays.

What is sunscreen?

Sunscreen is a skincare product that protects the skin from sun exposure.

It works by absorbing or reflecting ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays.

This product is available in the form of lotions, gels, creams, sticks, sprays, and powders.

Regular use prevents sunburn, slows down premature aging, and reduces the risk of skin cancer.

Types of Sunscreens

Here are some types available on the market.

1. Chemical Sunscreen

This type works like a sponge, absorbing sunlight.

Some of its main ingredients include oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, and octinoxate.

This product is usually used on the face because it is easier to apply and doesn't leave a white residue.

2. Mineral Sunscreen

Mineral sunscreen works by creating a layer on the skin's surface, reflecting sunlight away from the skin.

The main ingredients used are the minerals zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide.

This product is suitable for sensitive skin because it has fewer ingredients, reducing skin irritation.

However, this type tends to leave a white cast on the skin and needs to be reapplied several times.

Benefits of Sunscreen

Here are some benefits of sunscreen that you can gain.

1. Slows Down Skin Aging

UVA rays have longer wavelengths, allowing them to penetrate and damage the layers where collagen is formed.

Collagen is needed to keep the skin firm. Damaged collagen results in rough, saggy, and wrinkled skin.

2. Reduces Uneven Skin Tone

Skin exposed to the sun usually becomes uneven in color.

According to a study published in  Advanced Drug Delivery Reviews (2020), the darkened areas are caused by melanin, the natural dark pigment of the skin.

When exposed to the sun, the skin produces melanin to protect itself from UVA and UVB rays.

Sunscreen provides extra protection, so the skin doesn't need to produce as much melanin, leading to a more even skin tone.

3. Reduces the Risk of Skin Cancer

As mentioned earlier, using this product can reduce the likelihood of developing skin cancer.

Sunscreen prevents UV rays from being absorbed by the skin. These rays are known to damage skin cells, causing them to grow uncontrollably and potentially trigger skin cancer.

4. Prevents Sunburn

Some people have lighter skin, which indicates a lower amount of melanin.

This means their natural protection is reduced, making them more prone to sunburn.

This product can prevent the absorption of UVB rays, which are the main cause of sunburn, especially for those with lighter skin.

5. Prevents Redness

Exposure to UV rays can reduce the risk of rupturing the blood vessel walls in the cheeks.

This condition, known as telangiectasia, results in visible veins and redness on the skin.

Tips for Choosing Sunscreen According to Skin Type

Although sunscreen can protect the skin from sun exposure, some ingredients may not be suitable for certain skin types.

Here are tips for choosing a product that matches your skin type.

1. For Oily and Acne-Prone Skin

Mineral sunscreen is more suitable for oily and acne-prone skin.

Mineral-based sunscreens are less likely to cause irritation, so they won't worsen inflammation in acne-prone skin.

People with oily and acne-prone skin are also advised to use water-based products rather than oil-based ones.

This ensures that the ingredients are easily absorbed into the skin without clogging pores and causing blackheads. These products are usually in the form of clear gels.

2. For Dry and Sensitive Skin

Mineral-based sunscreen is recommended for dry skin.

These minerals are also less likely to cause reactions because they do not penetrate the skin.

Choose products with a thick texture and moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides.

The thicker texture can protect and moisturize the skin simultaneously.

On the other hand, avoid products containing alcohol and excessive fragrances as they can trigger allergies.

3. For Combination Skin

Skincare products for combination skin are usually adjusted to the user's skin characteristics.

Oily areas are usually concentrated on the forehead, nose, and chin (T-zone), while drier areas are found on the cheeks and around the eyes.

If you have an oily T-zone, consider having skincare products for oily skin, including sunscreen.

Apply them to the dry, oily, or problematic areas of your face.

How to Use Sunscreen

Here’s how to apply sunscreen when you're outdoors.

- Apply it at least 15 minutes before going outside.

- Choose water-resistant and broad-spectrum products.

- Use products with a minimum SPF of 30 PA++ and water-resistant.

- Reapply every two hours.

- Keep in mind that reapplication every two hours is only necessary if you're outside all day.

These recommendations still apply primarily to those with lighter skin, especially in Western countries.

You should also remember that UV rays are still needed to get vitamin D.

Tips for Sunbathing

- Sunbathe around 9:00 AM for five minutes, gradually increasing the duration to a maximum of 15 minutes.

- Expose your arms and calves, and use a hat and sunscreen on other areas.

- Avoid sunbathing between 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM to prevent sunburn.

- Do it two to three times a week.

- Do not sunbathe if you're sensitive to sunlight. Stop sunbathing if your skin starts to turn red.

Common Sunscreen Mistakes

To ensure optimal results, here are some common sunscreen application mistakes to avoid.

- Relying too much on the SPF in moisturizers and makeup, which are not as high as in sunscreen.

- Mixing sunscreen with other products. This can break down its ingredients, reducing its protective effectiveness.

- Not applying sunscreen to all parts of the face, including the eyelids, ears, and neck.

- Sunscreen plays an essential role in skin health. Use it whenever you need to be outdoors to get maximum protection.

Make sure to apply a small amount on the inner elbow or upper arm for ten days to check for any allergic reactions.

Don't forget to always read the instructions, as each product may react differently.

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