Sun protection is one of the most important things you can do for your skin’s health and longevity. But how exactly do you go about protecting your skin? That’s a big question!
In this article, we will discuss the basics of SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, and provide some tips on how to use it correctly to maximize its benefits. Read on to learn more and get started with a healthier and better-protected skin.
Sunscreen protection is an important part of any skincare routine. But how do you know if you're actually getting the protection you need? Read on to learn the tips and tricks for using SPF properly, and reap the benefits of this essential skin care product!
It is a shield against harmful rays
The constant exposure to sun certainly drains out the essential nourishment and moisture of your skin leaving it dull, dry and unclean. The continuously depleting ozone layer has put us at a higher risk of getting affected by the harmful rays of the sun. It is a fact that we are in immense need of sun on a daily basis to meet the regular need of Vitamin D, however, basking in the sun comes with many precautions. Using SPF in the proper way will allow you to absorb the goodness of the sun without actually causing any harm to your skin.
Lowers the risk of skin cancer
Even though many believe it to be a myth, it has been scientifically proven that applying a good quality SPF not only protects your skin externally but also helps to prevent the risk of skin cancer to a certain limit. Most of the people begin their SPF journey with the sole aim to make their skin look brighter and healthier despite sun exposure but a lesser known fact is that this health benefit comes along as a blessing in disguise. Regular application of sunscreen has proven to be helpful in avoiding the harmful UV rays of the sun to cause skin cancer specially and other sunlight related allergies. However, it is recommended to try for yourself instead of just believing in word of mouth since every skin type reacts differently to different products.
Prevents sunburns
One of the most harmful things about exposure to sun is sunburn. People with sensitive skin often find it difficult to bear even the slightest sun exposure due to its scorching heat. Sunburns are painful burn-like rashes that appear on the skin as red patches when the skin is exposed to excessive heat of the sun. Some people face tiny bumps appearing on their skin due to the warmth that does not suit their skin. SPF is the best way to avoid such issues. Sunburns can cause thinning of the skin layers making it more prone to the heat of the sun. This is due to UVB rays, and the risks could accelerate to severe issues like peeling, swelling, blisters and skin cancer in some cases. A study has also suggested that recurring sunburns could actually put you at a higher risk of lethal melanoma. So, applying sunscreen is not a beauty choice but a real healthy habit that benefits you immensely in the long run.
Prevents tanning
Tan is surely healthy. No one minds a slight tan from the sun. But the fact remains that constant exposure to the sun doesn’t leave the skin only slightly tanned. We are all aware that after a while, the tan grows darker and stronger thereby making your skin look patchy and uneven. It is widely suggested to choose a sunscreen that has a minimum sun protection factor of 30 to prevent tanning induced by UVB. Do remember to always apply the SPF right after exercise or workout, as sweat could wash away the protective coating making it easy for the sun to harm your skin.
Helps to prevent premature aging
Having a younger looking and fresh skin is a dream. But with the kind of lifestyle that people have these days, where one cannot find the balance between work and a healthy sleep routine, achieving a younger- looking skin seems more and more difficult. However, SPF is here to rescue you from your worries. It shields your skin from developing signs of aging, such as wrinkles and fine lines, sunspots, hyperpigmentation, photodamage, and dry skin.
It has been learned that people below the age of 55 who applied sunscreen on a regular basis had about 24% lesser chances of developing these aging signs than non-sunscreen and occasional sunscreen users. It is believed that more than 90% of skin aging signs become visible and more prominent by exposure to the sun. The idea of introducing SPF into your daily skin care routine, you will not only help your skin on a daily basis but also be able to avoid long term issues like premature lines, wrinkles and other signs of aging from the very start, with minimal effort.
Understanding the importance of SPF is the first step towards treating your skin in a healthier manner. As mentioned before, numerous major skin related issues that are caused by the sun can be avoided simply by using a good quality SPF. Even though we have mentioned many harmful effects of sun exposure, it is certain that the need for Vitamin D can only be thoroughly met by basking in the sun for some time. SPF becomes even more essential in this case because avoiding the sun is surely not an option. SPF does not just offer beauty benefits but is also immensely beneficial for a well nourished skin in the long run.
