How Does Sunscreen Work?
Different kinds of sunscreen work in different ways. Some may scatter the sun’s rays, while others may reflect or absorb the rays or act as a barrier. Some sunscreens may act through a combination of these. Are you using sunscreen correctly?
- Get the right kind. If you have regular skin, a sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 30 will probably be enough, but if you have fair skin, you should get one with an SPF of at least 50. You should also look for broad spectrum sunscreen, which offers protection from both ultraviolet (UV) A and B rays. UVA rays get deep down into the layers of the skin, and UVB rays affect the top layers (and both can do damage).
- Apply it at the right time. Make sure to wear sunscreen every time you go out, even on cloudy days. You should put sunscreen on about half an hour before you go outside so that it has a chance to be absorbed by the skin. You should apply it every 2 hours if you stay outside or even more often if you are swimming or sweating a lot.
- Apply it in the right way. Don’t forget to use it anywhere that will be exposed to the sun, including the neck, the tops of the ears, and even the eyelids!
- Notice changes in your skin. If you have had bad sunburns in the past, your risk for skin cancer is higher. Make sure to see your doctor if there are any new growths or lumps on your skin.
Using sunscreen, and using it correctly, is good for not only your beauty but your health. For help with skin that has been damaged by the sun, contact AesthetiSpa Cosmetic Skin & Laser Center in Mount Pleasant, SC. Call (843) 849-9925 for an appointment today!