Sunscreen Facts: Top 5 Important Things You Should Know About Sunscreens

When you are trying to achieve healthy, glowing skin, the sun can be your biggest enemy. This is why you must have the right sunscreen in your skincare arsenal that will protect your skin against the harsh summer sun. Even though we are still spending a lot of time indoors, sunblock is a non-negotiable, year-round essential. But before you buy your next bottle, here are some important sunscreen facts that you should know:

1. Does everyone need sunscreen?

   Yes, everyone needs sunscreen! Regardless of your skin type, age, gender, or race, you need to incorporate a sunscreen with SPF 30 or more into your skincare routine. This is because sunscreen can help protect your skin against the sun’s harmful UV rays, which are a prime cause of both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer.

   

2. When should you use sunscreen?

   You should apply sunscreen to exposed skin every day, and not just when you are out in the sun. Even on cloudy days, UV rays can penetrate your skin. You should also apply sunscreen when you are inside your home and car. UVA rays can penetrate glass, too, leaving you at risk of its damaging effects if you are not protected.

3. How should you choose the right sunscreen?

   There is a wide range of sunscreens available and choosing one that suits you can seem slightly daunting, but that shouldn’t stop you. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), a sunscreen should ideally offer broad-spectrum protection, SPF 30 or higher, and water resistance. If you have acne-prone, oily, or sensitive skin, you can easily find sunscreens that offer these benefits and are also formulated for specific skin types.

4. How much sunscreen should you use, and how often should you apply?

   Apply sunscreen to dry skin 15 to 20 minutes before going out. Make sure you apply on all exposed areas, including your face, neck, hands, arms, ears, and so on. While it is believed that you need an ounce of sunscreen to cover every exposed part of your body, most people only use approximately 25 to 50 percent of the recommended amount. Reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating profusely.

5. Are sunscreens safe?

   Sunscreens are regulated as over-the-counter drugs by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which means they are safe to use. There is sufficient scientific evidence that supports the use of sunscreen to minimize long- and short-term sun damage.

If you want to protect your skin from sunburn and a host of other skin concerns, a good sunscreen is a must-have. Sesha Skin Therapy offers a range of sunscreens like the Clinical Repair/Protect SPF 30- Day Emulsion, which not only offers sun protection but also has effective anti-aging benefits.