Ladies, we’re hitting the right spot. While you should use sunscreen every day of the year, it is vital to slap on some extra SPF on sunny days when the days are longer, the sun is stronger, and it is easier to spend some time out. It’s an important ritual to slather a good amount of sunscreen 20 minutes before you venture out while carrying sunscreen bottles along (for reapplication) as the heat waves continue to batter us.
But…does sunscreen actually protect you from skin cancer? The majority of skin malignancies are caused by excessive exposure to UV (ultraviolet) rays. Sunlight, tanning beds, and sunlamps also emit UV rays. Skin cells can be damaged by the harmful UV radiation that can also cause skin cancer. Let’s take a look at how sunscreen can prevent your skin cells from being damaged.
Is Wearing Sunscreen Enough To Protect Against Skin Cancer?
Squamous cell cancer is at least one type of carcinoma that sunscreens can help prevent, although the research on melanoma is less conclusive. When used properly, sunscreen can protect you from skin cancer by obstructing UV radiation. The effectiveness of this blocking is demonstrated by the SPF rating; if you are wearing a higher SPF – this indicates that it is safer to spend more time in the sun.
No matter what sunscreen you wear, some radiation will always penetrate your skin. Therefore, wearing sunscreen alone is insufficient — avoid peak sun exposure whenever possible (between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.). If you must go out, seek shade and wear protective clothing, such as a brimmed hat and sunglasses.
We’ve Jotted Down 5 Tips To Help Prevent Skin Cancer
Sunscreen Should Be Your Daily Business
Because you can’t avoid the great outdoors (someone has to run those errands), regular sunscreen application is essential. Understanding how to avoid skin cancer entails using UV protection on a daily basis, even when leaving the house for work.
The chances of you forgetting to apply sunscreen before heading out are very high, which is why incorporating it into your daily routine is worthwhile. Place your sunscreen bottle near your toiletries or makeup caddy – this avoids an “out of sight, out of mind” mistake.
It’s About Cumulative Sun Exposure
The rare pool party that exposes your skin to the sun is not the only thing that puts you at risk. Instead, it’s the chronic, cumulative sun exposure that appears “incidental” that’s the most problematic. Everyday chores such as moving to and from the car, running errands, and walking your dog on a cloudy day, take up more time and responsibility for the damages caused due to sun exposure.
These everyday doses of UV radiation account for more of your exposure than those occasional sunburns you work so hard to prevent. Continue to avoid overexposure, but don’t overlook everything in between. Remember that even on cloudy days or while driving, you are soaking up UV rays – account for every type of exposure and be well-prepared to take on the world with a sunscreen on your side.
Don’t Skimp On Sunscreen
Use a nickel-sized amount of sunscreen on your face to ensure you’ve covered this highly exposed area. Don’t forget to apply UV protection to commonly ignored areas such as the neck, ears, tops of hands, and tops of feet. Choose an SPF 30 or higher sunscreen and reapply it every 2-3 hours (or more frequently if you’re swimming or sweating a lot).
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Prevention Is For All Skin Colours
Skin cancer does not discriminate based on the tone and shade of your skin, thus people of all skin colours are at risk. However, having higher pigmentation (darker skin) makes you less likely to acquire skin cancer, but that doesn’t imply you cannot get it at all. FYI, people with darker skin tones suffer from melanoma at a higher rate than people with lighter skin tones.
Try Out Different Sunscreen Formulas That Suit You
When you find the formula that works best for you, it’s simple to apply sunscreen on a daily basis. Distinct formulas have different textures and specific advantages, allowing you to choose the best one for your skin type. Some manufacturers now provide sunscreen for acne-prone and sensitive skin specifically, too. Experiment with your alternatives until you locate a product that provides you with the best results for your daily use.
Bag these sunscreens before they’re sold out!
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