Sun Protection
“Sun protection in skincare involves using sunscreen and adopting sun-safe behaviours to prevent UV-induced skin damage, maintain skin health, and reduce the risk of skin cancer and premature aging.”
Why Sunscreen is important?
Prevents Skin Cancer: Regular use of sunscreen can significantly reduce the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma, which is the deadliest form of skin cancer.
Prevents Premature Aging: Sunscreen helps protect the skin from photoaging, which includes wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots caused by sun exposure.
Prevents Sunburn: Sunscreen protects the skin from harmful UVB rays that cause sunburn.
Maintains Even Skin Tone: Helps prevent hyperpigmentation and dark spots caused by sun exposure.
Protects Against UV Radiation: Shields the skin from both UVA and UVB rays, which can cause long-term damage.
Types of Sunscreen
Chemical Sunscreens
How They Work: Absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat, which is then released from the skin.
Benefits: Lightweight, easily absorbed, and often less visible on the skin.
Ingredients: Oxybenzone, avobenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene, homosalate, and octisalate.
Caution!
While these ingredients are effective at protecting the skin from UV radiation, there are health and environmental concerns associated with some of them. If you are concerned about the potential risks, you might consider alternatives such as mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are generally recognized as safe and effective without the same level of hormonal or environmental impact.
It's also important to note that the risk of skin cancer and photoaging from sun exposure is significant, and using sunscreen is a critical part of protecting your skin. Balancing the benefits of UV protection with the potential risks of certain sunscreen ingredients is essential for making an informed choice. Consulting a dermatologist can also provide personalised advice based on your skin type and health concerns.
Physical (Mineral) Sunscreens
How They Work: Create a physical barrier that reflects UV radiation away from the skin.
Benefits: Less likely to cause irritation, suitable for sensitive skin, and offer broad-spectrum protection.
Ingredients: Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
How to Apply Sunscreen?
Choose the Right Sunscreen
Select a sunscreen that suits your skin type and needs. Ensure it offers broad-spectrum protection (against both UVA and UVB rays) and has an SPF of at least 30.
Apply Sunscreen Generously
For the Face:
Cleanse and Moisturize: Start with a clean, moisturized face. This helps the sunscreen adhere better to your skin.
Amount: Use about a nickel-sized amount (approximately 1/4 teaspoon) for your face and neck.
Application: Dot the sunscreen evenly across your face – on your forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin.
Spread Evenly: Use gentle, circular motions to spread the sunscreen evenly, making sure to cover all areas including the ears and the neck.
For the Body:
Amount: Use enough sunscreen to cover all exposed skin generously. As a general rule, use about an ounce (a shot glass full) to cover your entire body.
Application: Apply sunscreen to all exposed areas, including the back of the neck, ears, and the tops of your feet.
Apply Before Sun Exposure
Apply sunscreen at least 15-30 minutes before going outside to allow it to absorb properly and provide optimal protection.
Reapply Regularly
Every Two Hours: Reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially if you are outdoors for an extended period.
After Swimming or Sweating: Reapply immediately after swimming, sweating, or towel drying, even if your sunscreen is water-resistant.
Don't Forget Your Lips
Use a lip balm with SPF to protect your lips from sun damage.
Additional Tips
Daily Use: Make sunscreen a daily habit, even on cloudy days or when you’re indoors, as UV rays can penetrate windows.
Layering: If you’re using makeup or other skincare products, apply sunscreen as the final step in your skincare routine, before makeup application.
Check Expiry Dates: Sunscreen loses its effectiveness over time, so always check the expiration date before use.
Sensitive Areas: Pay extra attention to commonly missed spots like the ears, back of the neck, and tops of the feet.
Sunscreen for All Skin Types: Even if you have darker skin, sunscreen is crucial as UV damage affects all skin types and can lead to hyperpigmentation and other skin issues.
Product Selection Guide
Normal Skin
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-in Milk Sunscreen SPF 60
Oily Skin
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 100
Dry Skin
Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Face Sunscreen SPF 50
Combination Skin (Dry + Oily)
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
Sensitive Skin
EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
Acne Prone Skin
Differin Oil Absorbing Moisturiser with SPF 30
Mature Skin
ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica Ultralight Emulsion SPF 50+