Why Sunscreen Is So Important

People often use sunscreen only at the beach. The truth is harmful UV rays from the sun can penetrate your skin anywhere, even while in a car or walking outside. Up to 80% of UVA and UVB rays can reach your skin on a cloudy day.

Why Use Sunscreen Regularly?

The sun’s rays are nearly impossible to escape: Your skin is exposed to UVA rays whether you are in a car or standing near a window because they can penetrate glass. However, UVB rays cannot pass through glass but do cause sunburns. A broad-spectrum sunscreen can protect you against both types of solar radiation.
It decreases your risk of skin cancer: One in five people in the U.S. is diagnosed with skin cancer. It can occur at any age, in people with any skin type. UVA and UVB rays are carcinogenic, and you don’t have to burn to develop malignancies. To protect yourself, apply sunscreen to all exposed skin, including your ears, feet, and scalp, 15-30 minutes before going out in the sun. Even waterproof sunscreen must be reapplied regularly.
Skin appearance is protected: Sunscreen protects you from sunburn but also helps avoid premature aging caused by exposure to ultraviolet light. It can delay the onset of wrinkles, avoid uneven skin tone, and prevent discolorations such as brown spots. Even if you don’t burn easily, sun damage occurs throughout your life, whether you have lighter or darker skin.
Sunscreen avoids the discomfort of sunburn: Red, burning, itching, and blistering skin, as well as muscle cramps and nausea, are associated with sunburn and can be avoided (another one of sunscreen’s benefits). Extended sun exposure can lead to heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Along with applying sunscreen, consume plenty of water to avoid these issues.

What’s the Best Sunscreen?

There are many types of sunscreen; the best ones have a Sun Protection Factor, or SPF, of at least 30. At this level, 97% of the sun’s UVB rays are blocked. Higher SPF numbers block slightly more ultraviolet radiation. However, no sunscreen blocks all UVB rays; remember to reapply sunscreen every two hours if you stay outside, even on a cloudy day or whether you sweat or go swimming. Regardless of the SPF number, a sunscreen will last the same amount of time.

Sunscreen lotions are what most people are familiar with. However, sunscreens come in spray form, which can be convenient and effective if applied evenly. Spray lotions are often easier for parents to use with children. Some moisturizers, foundations, and lipsticks have built-in sunscreen, which is good for daily protection but not extended exposure. Sunscreen sticks are effective for protecting spot areas such as the nose and ears, while sweat- and water-resistant products can stay on your skin after you get wet. If you have sensitive skin, mineral or hypoallergenic sunscreens provide a non-irritating solution.

Consult with LDI to Maintain Healthy Skin

Even if you use sunscreen regularly, it doesn’t give you 100% protection against the sun. The Laser & Dermatology Institute of California offers state-of-the-art RF and laser treatments, which enable us to provide the best skin treatment services in Southern California. If you notice skin discolorations, premature wrinkles, or sun damaged skin, we can provide personalized treatments that yield quick results with minimal downtime. Schedule a free consultation today at our main location—LDI of Covina.