Sunscreen is an essential part of any skincare routine, as it helps protect your skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays. UV rays are a type of radiation that come from the sun and can cause damage to the skin, leading to sunburn, premature aging, and even skin cancer. There are two types of UV rays: UVA and UVB.
UVA rays are the most common type of UV rays and are responsible for tanning and aging of the skin. They can penetrate deep into the skin and cause damage to the collagen and elastin fibers, leading to wrinkles and age spots. UVB rays are the main cause of sunburn and are responsible for most skin cancers. They affect the outer layers of the skin and can cause redness, pain and blistering.
Sunscreen works by absorbing or reflecting UV rays before they can penetrate the skin. Sunscreens contain ingredients called sun filters that absorb UV rays and prevent them from reaching the skin. The two main types of sun filters are chemical sunscreens and physical sunscreens.
Chemical sunscreens contain ingredients such as oxybenzone and octinoxate that absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, which is then released from the skin. Physical sunscreens, on the other hand, contain ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that sit on top of the skin and reflect UV rays away from the skin.
When choosing a sunscreen, it is important to look for one with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30, and that offers broad-spectrum protection, meaning it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. It's also important to apply sunscreen at least 20 minutes before going outside and to reapply every 2 hours or after swimming or sweating.
By understanding the science of sunscreen, you can make informed decisions about protecting your skin from UV damage, keeping your skin healthy and youthful for years to come.