Sunscreens are used to protect the skin from the harmful effects of the sun by preventing sunburn and premature aging.
The active ingredients in sunscreens work either by absorbing the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation, preventing it from reaching the deeper layers of the skin, or by reflecting the radiation.
Regular sunscreen use has been shown to reduce the formation of precancerous actinic keratoses (AK) lesions, aging and squamous cell carcinoma of the skin.
BENEFITS OF SUNSCREEN:
Using sunblock, also known as sunscreen, offers a multitude of benefits backed by medical research. Some scientifically proven advantages:
1. *Protection Against UV Radiation*: Sunscreens shield your skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can cause sunburn, skin aging, and skin cancer. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) states that regular use of sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher can reduce the risk of melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma.
2. *Prevention of Premature Aging*: Sunscreens help prevent premature aging of the skin, including wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots caused by UV exposure. A study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that daily sunscreen use slowed the aging of skin caused by the sun’s rays.
3. *Reduced Risk of Skin Cancer*: According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, wearing sunscreen daily significantly decreases the risk of developing skin cancer, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Continuous sunscreen use can also prevent the formation of precancerous skin lesions.
4. *Protection Against Heat*: Sunscreens can provide a barrier against heat by blocking infrared radiation, helping to maintain a lower skin temperature. This can be particularly beneficial in hot climates or during outdoor activities.
5. *Preservation of Skin Health*: Sunscreen helps maintain the health and integrity of the skin by preventing UV-induced damage, such as inflammation, DNA damage, and suppression of the immune system.
Several research studies and articles support these benefits. For example:
– A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology concluded that regular sunscreen use reduced the incidence of melanoma in young adults.
– Research published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology demonstrated that sunscreen use helps prevent the development of actinic keratoses, which are precancerous skin lesions.
– The British Journal of Dermatology published a study showing that daily sunscreen application prevented photoaging in middle-aged men and women.
Clinical evaluations showed that all photoaging parameters improved as early as Week 12 and the amelioration continued until Week 52. Skin texture, clarity, and mottled and discrete pigmentation were the most improved parameters by the end of the study (40% to 52% improvement from baseline), with 100% of subjects showing improvement in skin clarity and texture.
HOW TO APPLY SUNSCREEN:
Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure, and reapply sunscreen every 2 hours. Generally apply 2 finger technique for skin and neck. Recently sunscreen sticks made it easier for reapplication.
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CHEMICAL AND PHYSICAL SUNSCREEN:
- Chemical sunscreen convert UV rays in to heat whereas physical sunscreen deflects UV rays away from skin.
- Chemical needs time to absorb (15-30 minutes) whereas physical works immediately upon application
- Chemical absorbs in the skin with no residue whereas physical leaves a white cast on skin.
- Chemical active ingredient’s include oxybenzone, avobenzone and octinoxate. Physical sunscreen ingredients include Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
- Chemical is good for apply adding skincare whereas physical wears it off
- Physical sunscreen is best for children because it sits on the top on skin whereas chemical absorbs into the skin.
Overall, the use of sunscreen is strongly recommended by dermatologists worldwide to protect against the harmful effects of UV radiation and maintain skin health.
April 28, 2024
