Sunlight plays a major role in our existence as humans. Our daily life is governed by the cycles of light and darkness known as circadian rhythm, and all parts of our body benefit from the warmth and heat of natural sunlight. Vitamin D which is not produced in our body is essential for bone strength and growth, and this is produced only when we are exposed to sunlight.
However, excessive exposure to sunlight can be harmful and we need to protect our bodies against this. One way to shield ourselves is to use sun protection products and be mindful of safeguarding ourselves against the harsh rays.
Why Is Excessive Sunlight Harmful?
The sun’s rays reach us across millions of kilometers, and through the protective layers of atmosphere or ozone that cover the earth. These rays are in fact energy that comes in the form of different types of ultraviolet (UV)radiation or light. Scientists have classified UV radiation into UVA, UVB and UVB. Of these, UVB doesn’t penetrate the ozone layer while the other two do.
The body has a natural defense called melanin against UV rays but excessive exposure results in skin damage. Suntan is really the reaction of melanin failure to absorb excess sunlight.
UVA is milder but it can cause minor skin damage such as wrinkles, sagging, aging and freckles. UVB is more harmful and results in skin cancer and cataracts in the eyes.
Australia has a high incidence of skin cancer due to its geographical position and exposure to intense UV rays. The population is largely white skinned and they are more vulnerable to skin damage as their melanin levels are lower.
Apart from natural sunlight, there are other ways in which you can be exposed to UV rays. One of them is through artificial tanning. An outdoorsy, sun-tanned look is considered very attractive in both men and women, and you can get it from a beauty salon. UV rays are also radiated by mercury vapor lamps, halogen and fluorescent lighting, incandescent bulbs and certain lasers.
Protection Options
UV rays are strongest in the afternoons, so it’s wise to stay in the shade at this time. If you’re visiting or live in a place that is sunny, wear protective clothing such as long sleeves, and longer trousers. Wearing a broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses protects your eyes too.
The most important thing is to develop the habit of using sunscreen regularly when you’re outside. There are plenty of products available at your local supermarket, drug-store, or medical pharmacy. Talk to an expert and choose the one that’s best suited to the amount of exposure, your budget, needs and preferences.
Why Is Sunscreen Important in Your Daily Skincare Routine?
Sunscreens are specially formulated products that help to block harmful UV rays and protect the skin against damage. They are available as lotions, creams, gels, spray or foam and also in powder form. In some places they’re known as sunblock too.
Some formulations known as mineral sunscreens are made of zinc oxide or titanium dioxide and they physically block UV rays either by absorbing, reflecting or refracting them. Other sunscreens are chemical products that absorb or scatter UV rays. You can also purchase hybrid sunscreens that are a blend of both types. Visit Rest and Digest for more information about using high quality mineral sunscreen for Australian conditions.
The most important benefit of sunscreen is that it prevents melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma which are dangerous skin cancers.
You may think that UV rays are not present on cloudy days, but in fact some studies show that UV radiation on cloudy days is higher especially if it’s a partially cloudy day. That’s why you need to make sunscreen a habit regardless of the weather forecast.
Sun damage tends to accumulate over time, and signs of skin aging, wrinkles, sagging, squinting around the eyes, age-spots and more can be prevented by using sunscreen in your daily skincare routine.
Inflammation and redness, acute symptoms of sun exposure, known as sunburn can be prevented by the right sunscreen. Sunburn is painful and can damage the skin too.
Your skin can look patchy or hyper-pigmented due to excessive exposure to UV rays. Whether it’s from natural sunlight or a tanning bed, you need to make sunscreen a habit as you would your moisturizer or cleanser.
How To Choose Sunscreen
Talk to an expert or professional in the skin care field before you select a sunscreen. They can prescribe the right products.
If you’re buying a product off the counter, ensure that you keep yourself informed by reading the label. Remember that sunscreens don’t last for longer than about two hours before you need to re-apply.
Sunscreens are available as either broad spectrum, water-resistant or according to SPF (sunburn protection factor) levels.
Broad spectrum products are ideal for daily use and can protect your skin against UVA and UVB rays. Water-resistant sunscreens are the ideal product to buy if you’re planning water-sports or swimming. It is also useful if you sweat a lot. However, environmentalists have flagged the problem of water-resistant chemical sunscreens leaching into the ocean waters and damaging delicate coral reefs.
SPF levels start from 15 which prevent about 93% UV penetration, and SPF 30 prevents 97%. Scientists advise that you can never have 100% protection, so it’s wiser to cover yourself when you’re out in the sun. You can purchase garments made from fabric with UV protection.
If you have sensitive skin, choose fragrance-free products, and avoid applying sunscreen on young children.
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