The sun’s rays are undeniably the source of all life on Earth. From providing energy for plants to grow to sustaining ecosystems, everything benefits from it.
When it comes to our skin, their effects are unfortunately unfavourable. Unprotected exposure to harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays can lead to severe skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer.
Regardless of the time of year, whether it be colder months or cloudier days, the sun’s UV rays can still harm skin because they can pass through the clouds. Intensified rays sneak through windows as well and expose us to the sun even when we are indoors.
There is much more to tell you about the importance of using sunscreen in all season; for now, we can start with the basics.
What is SPF (Sun Protection Factor)?
The Sun Protection Factor assesses how well your sunscreen protects your skin from UV rays. Sun exposure to UV rays causes early skin ageing, sunburn, and even skin cancer.
Things to know about Sunscreen
A person can be exposed to the sun without protection for the amount of time indicated next to SPF. Typically, after 10 minutes of sun exposure, a person begins to sunburn. So, theoretically, using SPF 35 allows them to stay out longer (35 x 10 = 350 minutes).
Keep in mind Sunscreen’s SPF does not measure how long you can stay in the sun; rather, it gauges how effectively sunscreen protects you from getting sunburned compared to being without sunscreen.
Dermatologists strongly recommend choosing a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher and emphasize the importance of reapplying every two hours.
Importance of Applying Sunscreen With SPF All Season
Sunlight is important for our body’s synthesis of vitamin D, which supports bone formation and overall health. However, all-day sun exposure can have negative effects on the skin.
To maintain the skin’s elasticity and firmness, collagen and elastin fibres are crucial. As a result of the sun’s ultraviolet radiation, those elements are damaged, causing wrinkles and fine lines to appear.
But those are not the only reasons why sunscreen is important; check out some more in the list below.
- Form an extra layer to protect against ultraviolet radiation. To prevent long-term skin damage from UVA and UVB rays that can penetrate deeply into skin cells.
- UVA radiation is the most common contributor to skin cancer. Sunscreen is the perfect preventive to fight skin cancer. So regular use significantly lowers the risk of increasing melanoma.
- Premature ageing signs, like fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, or loss of skin elasticity, appear dull when a person’s skin is more frequently exposed to the sun. Sunscreen minimizes those signs and maintains a youthful look.
- Year-round, even on overcast days or in the colder months, sunlight and UV rays are present. There is no way to save you from its damage without applying sunscreen.
- Sun exposure darkens our skin and overall appearance; however, sunscreen can help us regain an even skin tone and the appearance of faded dark spots.
Which SPF sunscreen should you use?
Picking the best sunscreen can be a daunting task, but it is essential to consider factors like your skin type, the intensity of sun exposure, and the time spent outdoors.
According to skin type, we have divided up two types of sunscreen below-
Sunscreen For Oily Skin
If you’ve oily or acne-prone skin, you must look for a lightweight and mattifying sunscreen that does not give you extra loads of oil or greasiness.
The best sunscreen products from WOW Skin Science, which are ideal for oily skin and UV ray sun protection, are listed below:
- Water Resistant Sunscreen Lotion is ideal for people who like to engage in a lot of outdoor activities.
- Applying Tinted Sunscreen SPF50 PA+++ can be your ideal product when you want to avoid sun damage and achieve a no-makeup look.
- UV Water Transparent Sunscreen Spray SPF 30 is a water-based UV water spray that adds moisture and prevents your skin from becoming oily, sticky, or patchy.
Sunscreen For All Skin Types
For all skin types, especially combination and dry skin, choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB rays while keeping your skin moisturized.
The sunscreen has hydrating ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, or aloe vera to maintain the skin’s natural moisture balance and prevent dryness. Go for a cream or lotion consistency to create an extra protective layer, locking in moisture and preventing water loss.
The sunscreen products from WOW Skin Science that are effective for all skin types are listed below:
- Broad Spectrum Sunscreen Spray SPF 50 fights off all the adverse effects of sunlight and makes your skin hydrated.
- Sunscreen Matte Finish – Spf 35 PA++ – Daily Broad Spectrum – UVA & UVB Protection is infused with a strong concentration of natural ingredients that balance the pH of your skin.
- If your skin loses its hydration and glow, try this Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 50 PA+++ Matte Finish works like a wonder.
Note: If it’s fair or sensitive, go for a higher SPF than SPF 30 sunscreen to prevent sunburn.
FAQs
1. What does sun damage on the skin look like?
Sun-damaged skin is typically dark in colour, hyperpigmented, prematurely ages with wrinkles and fine lines, and even loses its youthfulness.
2. Is it better to use SPF 30 or 50?
An SPF of 50 protects you from about 98% of UVB rays, whereas an SPF of 30 from approximately 96.7% of UVB rays. Otherwise, anything over 50 makes a small difference because no sunscreen provides complete protection from the sun.
3. Does SPF fade acne marks?
Sunscreen’s daily usage protects your skin from sun damage, discoloration, and hyperpigmentation. It has a passive role in limiting acne scars and fading the marks as well.
4. Can sunscreen whiten skin?
No! Sunscreen keeps your skin’s tone consistent and prevents your complexion from becoming darker. It doesn’t whiten your skin.
Final Words
Be generous with your skin, so include sunscreen in your daily skincare routine. Since every person’s skin is different, it is important to match the products to your skin type; otherwise, things will not work out.
Don’t forget to share your thoughts below!
