The Importance of Wearing Sunscreen
Most of us know that using sunscreen is important when going to the beach or pool, but few think about it past those settings. Why bring sunscreen for an afternoon at the park, or while out for a bike ride? It’s just a few hours in the sun, can it really be so bad?
In short — Absolutely. Sun damage can cause a whole host of problems, and sunscreen is the first step to preventing lasting damage. That little bottle of white lotion shouldn’t just be a summer thought, it should be a year round preventative health measure. Sunscreen is extremely important in maintaining healthy, soft, and younger looking skin, and should be part of an everyday skincare regimen.
Sun damage wreaks havoc on skin, particularly on faces, causing wrinkles, spots and more. Skin Cancer is the single most common form of cancer in the United States, and its leading cause is UV exposure from the Sun. All these issues can be prevented by the use of sunscreen.
The Sun produces two different types of UltraViolet rays: UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are the main source of skin aging, causing premature lines, wrinkles and age spots. These types of rays are commonly overlooked, as they can pass through glass and often affect people while driving or sitting near a window. UVB rays are the main source of sunburns, which also age the skin and can cause lasting damage. However, both types of UV rays are carcinogenic, and both can do serious harm. It is extremely important to find a broad spectrum sunscreen that can protect against both types of rays.
When deciding on a sunscreen, it’s easy to get a little overwhelmed. Don’t just go with the first one you see, and certainly don’t trust the bottle that you’ve had for ten years. Sunscreen expires! The chemicals break down, and don’t protect you from anything. Be sure to check every time that your sunscreen is still good, and try and find the kind that is right for you. SPF 30 will block up to 96 percent of UV rays, and is a healthy option for most skin types. Don’t forget to allow 15-30 minutes for the lotion to sit before going out in the sun. Last but not least, remember to pay attention! If you notice any skin discoloration, get it checked immediately. The sooner skin cancer is detected, the sooner it can be dealt with.
If you’re outside while the sun is up, it’s a good idea to wear sunscreen. Even on cloudy days, up to 80 percent of UV rays can get through. DermWarehouse is a great resource for specialized skincare and sun protection. A facial sunscreen and moisturizer combination can help defend against damaging rays and dry skin, while a mineral based sunscreen can take care of the rest of your body, leaving you looking healthy and younger. Check out their collection of sun-care related products, and find what fits your skin best.