With temperatures ranging from the 30s to the 90s across the country, it can be hard to know how to keep your skin safe. From your distant memories, you can probably hear the warning from your mother to put some sunscreen on before you leave the house. However, it is more important than you might think. We’re going to break down the top three reasons why it is vital for the health of your skin that you wear sunscreen.
What makes the sun so dangerous?
The sun emits energy that enters Earth as different types of rays, the most dangerous of which are UV. Your skin’s first line of defense is melanin. Melanin is the skin’s natural color which absorbs the UV rays. Too much UV radiation can overwhelm the melanin, causing sunburns, aging, and even cancer. By far, the best preventative measure you can take is wearing sunscreen. Here’s why it’s vital!
Sunscreen can help prevent skin cancer
Skin cancer is by far the number one reason you should be wearing sunscreen. While it doesn’t happen to everyone, it can be devastating when it does. In fact, skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States. So what is skin cancer? It’s an abnormal growth of skin cells that develops primarily on the skin most exposed to the sun, like the face, neck, arms, chest, legs, and scalp. No matter your skin type or tone, skin cancer can occur. Although, those with fairer skin do have a higher chance of developing it. Taking preventative measures by wearing sunscreen is the best way to limit your chances of developing skin cancer.
Sunscreen prevents premature aging
The number one cause of premature aging is exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays. They penetrate deep into the skin, causing elasticity and collagen formation to decrease, resulting in wrinkles, fine lines, crow’s feet, leathery skin, discoloration, and more. Keep your skin looking and feeling it’s best by applying sunscreen regularly.
Sunscreen is the perfect protection for sensitive skin
Did you know that the sun can also cause problems for sensitive skin? For those who don’t usually have sensitive skin, this may apply to you without knowing. Some medications, both topical and oral, for acne, diabetes, cancer, or even antifungal can cause sensitivity to the sun. You may unknowingly be doing immense, irreversible damage to your skin as it’s sensitivity increases.
What sunscreen should you choose?
Just like every other skincare product, it’s important to choose what works best for you. There are countless formulas and makeups with all kinds of bright packaging and buzzwords that can be quite distracting. Here’s what you need to know to get the most protection!
In general, you want to find a sunscreen that is broad-spectrum. As we mentioned previously, there are several UV rays that come from the Earth. UVA and UVB are the specific rays to watch out for as they’re the ones that reach through the atmosphere and come down to Earth. Broad-spectrum sunscreen accounts and protects your skin against both rays.
It’s important to do your research and get sunscreen specific to your activity. Waterproof sunscreen is essential for any water activities but must be reapplied frequently. Consider opting for reef-safe sunscreen. Scientists have discovered that the chemicals in most commercial sunscreens are incredibly toxic to the world’s coral reefs. Do your part to protect the environment and use reef-safe sunscreen.
What are other ways to protect your skin?
In addition to sunscreen, there are countless other ways you can protect your skin and keep it looking young and healthy. Try these tips!
- Always apply sunscreen, even when it’s overcast. UV rays can fight through the clouds, so you may be doing more damage to your skin without knowing it. Pop on a daily sunscreen for added protection.
- Wear protective layers including a hat, sunglasses, pants, and long sleeves when possible.
- Take frequent breaks from the sun. During the height of the day is when the sun is the most brutal. Take a rest in the shade when available.
- Avoid tanning, both indoor and outdoor. The light that tans your skin can cause rapid aging and cancer. If you must tan, opt for a spray tan.
- It’s important to prep your skin before heading outside. Sensitive, unhealthy skin is more susceptible to damage. Hydrate your skin with Aloe Infusion to give your skin the natural barrier it needs to look it’s best. Made with plant-based ingredients, Aloe Infusion sinks deep into the skin, repairing the moisture barrier, and hydrating from the inside out. Have your skin looking happy and healthy with Aloe Infusion!
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