Is the sun good or bad for us? What effect do the sun's rays have on our skin? When and how should we protect our skin? Many questions arise as the warm season approaches.
What effect do UV rays have on our skin?
No matter how much you want to enjoy the sun's rays, you should remember to do it safely. UV rays not only stimulate the production of vitamin D, increase the amount of serotonin - the happiness hormone in the body, and have a positive effect on the treatment of inflammatory skin diseases. However, excessive UV rays are dangerous - they promote premature skin aging, the appearance of wrinkles, pigment spots and couperose, cause burns and promote the development of skin cancer.
UVB rays affect the outer layer of the skin (epidermis), causing the skin to darken, but they are also the ones that cause skin burns. Long-term exposure to these rays disrupts collagen renewal processes, thus promoting skin aging and the appearance of wrinkles.
UVA rays penetrate deeper into the inner layer of the skin (dermis). They promote hyperpigmentation and premature skin aging by breaking down collagen and elastin. Both UVB and UVA rays can cause damage to cellular DNA, which increases the risk of skin cancer.
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What is SPF?
SPF is an abbreviation for Sun Protection Factor. The number next to these letters is an indicator of the strength of protection.
It is important to note that no sunscreen provides 100% protection from the sun. SPF15 protects against 93% of UV rays, SPF30 - 97%, SPF50 - 98%.
The SPF rating on sunscreens only indicates protection against UVB rays, so some creams only protect against skin burns. When choosing a sunscreen, it is important to pay attention and look for information in the descriptions about protection against UVA rays as well.
What to look for in sunscreens?
We can find mineral or chemical filters in sunscreens.
Mineral sunscreens (also known as physical sunscreens) – form a physical barrier on the skin that protects against harmful UV rays. The action of mineral filters is mechanical – they do not penetrate the skin, but remain on the surface of the skin and reflect UV rays. Physical filters protect against UVA and UVB rays. They do not cause allergic reactions, are suitable for sensitive skin. They are also particularly suitable for use by children, pregnant and breastfeeding women. These creams usually have a thicker consistency and may be more difficult to absorb into the skin.
Chemical filters – penetrate the upper layer of the skin and absorb UV rays during chemical reactions, turning them into harmless heat. Most often, chemical filters protect against UVB rays, so when choosing such sunscreens, be sure to look for information about protection against UVA rays. Most often, such creams have a lighter texture, absorb faster into the skin and spread more easily on it. Therefore, they are more suitable for daily use, using makeup.
When choosing a sunscreen for daily use, it is also useful to pay attention to other active ingredients in the product, which may provide moisturizing, nourishing or even-toned skin effects.
When to use sunscreen?
It is recommended to use sunscreen every day, even when not in direct sunlight. UV rays affect the skin in both summer and winter, and even on a cloudy day when we cannot see the sun.
Correct use of sunscreen is a key factor in protecting the skin from harmful effects. It is very important to apply a sufficient amount of sunscreen. For daily skin protection - include sunscreen in your morning facial skin care routine. Sunscreen should be used after skin care products and before makeup. You should also remember to reapply throughout the day. When at the beach or in nature, where direct sunlight reaches us, sunscreen should be applied at least every two hours. It is also necessary to remember to apply it after swimming, sweating or wiping with a towel.
Correct use of sunscreen products is an investment in healthy and beautiful skin!
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