Exposure to the sun leads to suntan, sunburn and many other effects. Apart from tanning, the skin is exposed to harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun, which can lead to some long-term effects like an early formation of wrinkles on the skin. Sun-exposure can also cause dark spots or patches.
Exposure to the sun, cause lack of moisture in the skin. Sunscreen’s will form a protective cover between the skin and the sun’s rays.
So, what is the answer? Using sunscreens and sun-protection lotions is the best bet. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen for optimum protection. A sunscreen is a product that forms a protective cover between the skin and the sun’s rays, while a broad-spectrum sunscreen is one which protects against both UVA and UVB rays of the sun.
Exposure to the sun can also cause lack of moisture in the skin. However, most sunscreens have built-in moisturizers. So, it is not necessary to use both moisturizer and sunscreen, unless the skin is very dehydrated.
Here are some tips:
- Apply a suitable sunscreen to all the exposed areas of the body including the face. The nape, back and arms are most susceptible to sun damage.
- Apply a sunscreen at least 20 minutes before going out in the sun. If you are exposed to sunlight for more than an hour, it is a good idea to re-apply the sunscreen.
- If you have oily skin, choose oil-free products or use a sunscreen lotion instead of a cream based one.
- If your skin is very dry, apply a sunscreen cream or, you can apply the sunscreen and wait for a couple of minutes and then apply a moisturizing cream.
- A sunscreen with SPF 15 or 20 is sufficient for most skin types. But if the skin is very sensitive that tends to burn easily then one should use a sunscreen with a higher SPF.
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, indicated by a number, which is mentioned on the label of the sunscreen. SPF is linked to the period of sun-exposure and also to individual skin-sensitivity. For sensitive skin that is prone to dark spots and patches, a sunscreen of SPF 40 may be used. Some skins develop a rash or redness on exposure to the sun. This is also due to sun-sensitivity. For such skins, it is very necessary to apply sunscreen of high SPF.
Sambav reminds you to apply sunscreen while holidaying by the sea, swimming or even when you head out to snow-capped vacation spots. Reflective surfaces like snow and water heighten the effects of UV rays.
