Sunscreen: how to choose and use the right

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Sunscreen: how to choose and use the right

I. Understanding solar radiation and its effect on the skin

A. Sun radiation spectrum:

  1. Ultraviolet radiation (UV): The most dangerous type of radiation reaching the surface of the earth. It is divided into three types:

    a. UVA (320-400 nm): It penetrates deep into the skin, causes premature aging, pigmentation, damage to collagen and elastin, and also contributes to the development of skin cancer. UVA rays penetrate through clouds and window glass.

    b. UVB (280-320 nm): Damages the surface layers of the skin, causes sunburns, tanning and is the main risk factor for the development of skin cancer. UVB rays are more intense in the summer months and from 10:00 to 16:00.

    c. UVC (100-280 nm): Usually does not reach the surface of the Earth, as it is absorbed by an ozone layer.

  2. Visible Light (400-700 Nm): Pigmentation can contribute to, especially in people with dark skin. High -energy visible light (Hev), also known as blue light, can cause the formation of free radicals and skin damage.

  3. Infrared radiation (IR): Causes a feeling of heat. It can contribute to the aging of the skin, damaging collagen.

B. The effect of solar radiation on the skin:

  1. Acute effects:

    a. Sun burns: Inflammatory skin reaction to the excessive effect of UVB rays. Symptoms: redness, pain, blisters.

    b. Photoshensiisis: The skin reaction to solar radiation caused by certain drugs, cosmetics or plants.

    c. Solar dermatitis (solar allergies): The immune reaction to solar radiation, manifested by an itching rash.

  2. Chronic effects:

    a. Photo starting: Premature aging of the skin caused by long -term exposure to solar radiation. It is manifested by wrinkles, pigment spots, loss of elasticity, dryness and rudeness of the skin.

    b. Skin cancer: The most dangerous consequence of prolonged exposure to solar radiation. There are various types of skin cancer, including basal, flat cell cancer and melanoma.

    c. Pigmenting changes: Freckles, lentigo (solar spots), melasm (chloasm).

    d. Eye damage: Cataract, degeneration of the yellow spot.

C. Factors affecting the intensity of solar radiation:

  1. Times of Day: The most intensive radiation falls on the period from 10:00 to 16:00.

  2. Top of year: The radiation intensity is higher in the summer months.

  3. Geographical latitude: The closer to the equator, the more intense radiation.

  4. Altitude: The radiation intensity increases with height.

  5. Cloudness: Clouds can partially block solar radiation, but not completely. Some clouds even reflect solar radiation, enhancing its effect.

  6. Reflecting surfaces: Snow, water, sand reflect solar radiation, increasing its effect on the skin.

II. What is sunscreen and how they work

A. Types of sunscreen:

  1. Sunscreen creams: The most common type of sunscreen. Designed for application to the skin.

  2. Sunglasses: They have a lighter texture than creams. Suitable for application to large areas of the body.

  3. Sunny sprays: Convenient in use, especially for hard -to -reach areas of the body. It is important to apply the spray evenly and in sufficient quantities.

  4. Sunscreen sticks: Designed to protect delicate skin areas, such as lips, nose and ears.

  5. Sunglassment cosmetics: Decorative cosmetics containing SPF (tonal creams, powder, lipsticks).

B. The mechanism of action of sunscreen:

  1. Physical (mineral) filters:

    a. Oxide Zinc (Zinc Oxide): Provides a wide range of protection against UVA and UVB rays. It is considered one of the safest and most effective sunscreen ingredients.

    b. Dioxide Titana (Titanium Dioxide): It also provides a wide range of protection against UVA and UVB rays. It can leave a white tint on the skin, but there are micronized formulas that minimize this effect.

    c. Principle Actions: Physical filters form a protective barrier on the skin, reflecting and dispersing solar radiation.

  2. Chemical filters:

    a. Principle Actions: Chemical filters absorb solar radiation and convert it into heat.

    b. Examples of chemical filters:

     i. **Оксибензон (Oxybenzone):**  Широко используется, но может вызывать аллергические реакции и считается потенциальным разрушителем эндокринной системы.

 ii. **Октиноксат (Octinoxate):**  Защищает от UVB-лучей.  Также может вызывать аллергические реакции и считается вредным для окружающей среды.

 iii. **Авобензон (Avobenzone):**  Защищает от UVA-лучей.  Нестабилен и требует стабилизаторов для поддержания эффективности.

 iv. **Октисалат (Octisalate):**  Усиливает защиту от UVB-лучей и стабилизирует другие фильтры.

 v. **Гомосалат (Homosalate):**  Защищает от UVB-лучей.

 vi. **Октокрилен (Octocrylene):**  Защищает от UVB-лучей и стабилизирует другие фильтры.

C. SPF (Sun Protection Factor):

  1. What does SPF mean: SPF shows how many times longer you can be in the sun without risk to get a sunburn using the sunscreen compared to how long you can be in the sun without protection.

  2. SPF levels:

    a. SPF 15: Blocks about 93% UVB ray.

    b. SPF 30: Blocks about 97% UVB ray.

    c. SPF 50: Blocks about 98% UVB ray.

    d. SPF 100: Blocks about 99% UVB ray.

  3. Choosing SPF: Dermatologists recommend the use of sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. For people with very bright skin or with increased sensitivity to the sun, it is recommended to use SPF 50 or higher.

D. PA (Protection Grade of UVA):

  1. What does PA mean: The rating used in Asian countries to indicate the level of protection against UVA ra ra raves.

  2. Pa levels:

    a. PA+: Minimum protection against UVA ray.

    b. PA++: Moderate protection against UVA ray.

    c. PA+++: High protection against UVA rays.

    d. PA++++: Very high protection against UVA rays.

E. Wide spectrum (Broad Spectrum):

  1. What does a wide spectrum mean: A sunscreen that provides protection from UVA and UVB rays. Be sure to choose sunscreen with a wide range of protection.

III. How to choose the right sunscreen

A. Type of skin:

  1. Dry skin: Choose sunscreens with moisturizing components such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, oil and ceramides.

  2. Burnic leather: Choose light, low-fat (Oil-Free) sunscreens or gels. Look for foods with a “non-comedogenic) mark to avoid blockage of pores.

  3. Sensitive skin: Choose sunscreen with physical filters (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide), which less irritate the skin. Avoid products with fragrances, dyes and parabens.

  4. Combined skin: Choose light sunscreens that will not overdry dry skin and do not make oily skin even more oily.

  5. Skin prone to acne: Choose sunscreen with a note “non-comedogenic) and containing ingredients that help fight acne, such as salicylic acid or niacinamide.

B. Active lifestyle:

  1. Water resistance: If you are engaged in swimming or other water sports, choose waterproof (Water-RESISTANT) sunscreen. However, remember that water resistance does not mean that the product will protect you throughout the day. It is necessary to re -apply the product after each bathing or after you are very sweating.

  2. Slow resistance: If you play sports or other activities that lead to increased sweating, choose the sunscreen that are resistant to sweat (Sweat-ReSistant).

C. Composition:

  1. Avoid harmful ingredients:

    a. Oxybenzone (Oxybenzone): It is considered a potential destroyer of the endocrine system and can cause allergic reactions.

    b. Octinxate (Octinoxate): It can also cause allergic reactions and is considered harmful to the environment.

    c. Parabens (Parabens): Conserviers who can cause allergic reactions and are considered potential destroyers of the endocrine system.

    d. Fragrances: Can cause allergic reactions and skin irritation.

    e. Dyes (Dyes): Can cause allergic reactions and skin irritation.

  2. Look for useful ingredients:

    a. Antioxidants: Vitamin C, vitamin E, green tea. They help protect the skin from damage to free radicals.

    b. Moisturizing ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides. They help moisturize and soften the skin.

    c. Soothing ingredients: Aloe Vera, chamomile, calendula. Help reassure irritated skin.

D. Format:

  1. Cream: Suitable for most skin types. Provides good moisture.

  2. Lotion: It has a lighter texture than the cream. Suitable for application to large areas of the body.

  3. Spray: Convenient in use, especially for hard -to -reach areas of the body. It is important to apply the spray evenly and in sufficient quantities.

  4. Style: Designed to protect delicate skin areas, such as lips, nose and ears.

E. Price:

  1. The price is not always an indicator of quality. You can find good sunscreen at an affordable price. It is important to pay attention to the composition and SPF.

F. Reviews:

  1. Read the reviews of other users before buying. This will help you learn more about the product and decide whether it is suitable for you.

IV. How to use sunscreen correctly

A. When to apply:

  1. Apply the sunscreen 15-30 minutes before the sun exit. This will allow the skin to absorb the product and form a protective barrier.

  2. Apply sunscreen every day, even in cloudy weather. UVA rays penetrate through the clouds.

B. How much to apply:

  1. Use a sufficient amount of sunscreen. For application to the entire body, about 30 ml (the size of the ball for golf) is needed.

  2. Do not save on the sunscreen. An insufficient amount of funds will not provide sufficient protection.

C. Where to apply:

  1. Apply the sunscreen to all areas of the skin that are exposed to the sun. Do not forget about the face, neck, ears, arms, legs and upper part of the feet.

  2. Pay special attention to sensitive areas of the skin, such as lips, nose and ears. Use the sunscreen for these areas.

  3. Apply sunscreen to the scalp if you have thin hair or bald head.

D. How to apply:

  1. Apply the sunscreen evenly. Make sure all skin areas are covered.

  2. Do not rub the sunscreen too much. This can damage the protective barrier of the skin.

E. When to repeat the application:

  1. Apply the sunscreen every 2 hours, especially after bathing, sweating or wiping with a towel.

  2. Even if you use a waterproof sunscreen, re -apply it after each bathing or after you sweat a lot.

F. Best before date:

  1. Check the shelf life of the sunscreen. The use of an expired sunscreen will not provide sufficient protection.

  2. Do not use the sunscreen if it has changed color or consistency.

V. Additional measures of sun protection

A. Wear protective clothes:

  1. Wear a wide -brimmed hat to protect your face, neck and ears from the sun.

  2. Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the harmful effects of solar radiation.

  3. Wear clothes with long sleeves and trousers to protect the skin from the sun. Look for clothes with high UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor).

B. Look for a shadow:

  1. Avoid staying in the sun from 10:00 to 16:00, when solar radiation is the most intense.

  2. Look for a shadow under trees, umbrellas or canopies.

C. Be especially careful with children:

  1. Children are especially susceptible to the harmful effects of solar radiation.

  2. Apply sunscreen to the skin of children every day, even in cloudy weather.

  3. Dress the children in protective clothes and hats.

  4. Limit the time of children in the sun, especially from 10:00 to 16:00.

D. Avoid solariums:

  1. Solariums radiate UVA and UVB ray, which can damage the skin and increase the risk of skin cancer.

  2. Do not visit the solariums.

E. Check the skin regularly:

  1. Regularly check the skin for new moles or changes in existing moles.

  2. Contact the dermatologist if you notice any suspicious skin changes.

VI. Sunscreen for special occasions

A. Pregnant sunscreen:

  1. Choose sunscreen with physical filters (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide), which are considered safer for pregnant women.

  2. Avoid sunscreen containing oxybenzone (Oxybenzone) and Octinoxate.

B. Sunscreen for infants:

  1. It is not recommended to use sunscreen for infants under 6 months.

  2. Instead, keep the babies in the shade and dress them in protective clothes.

  3. If you need to use a sunscreen for babies older than 6 months, choose sunscreen with physical filters (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide).

  4. Take a test in a small area of ​​the skin to make sure that the child does not have an allergic reaction.

C. Sunscreen for people with acne:

  1. Choose sunscreen with a note “non-comedogenic” (non-comedogenic) to avoid blockage of pores.

  2. Look for products containing ingredients that help fight acne, such as salicylic acid or niacinamide.

  3. Avoid sunscreen with oils that can aggravate acne.

D. Sunscreen for people with rosacea:

  1. Choose sunscreen with physical filters (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide), which less irritate the skin.

  2. Avoid products with fragrances, dyes and parabens.

  3. Choose sunscreen with soothing ingredients such as aloe vera, chamomile or calendula.

E. Sunscreen for athletes:

  1. Choose waterproof (Water-RESISTANT) and Sweat-RESISTANT) sunscreen.

  2. Choose light sunscreen that will not score pores.

  3. Apply sunscreen 15-30 minutes before the start of training.

  4. Apply the sunscreen every 2 hours, especially after swimming or sweating.

VII. Debunge myths about sunscreen

A. Myth: The sunscreen should be applied only in the summer.

  • Fact: Solar radiation is present all year round, even in cloudy weather. UVA rays penetrate through clouds and window glass. Therefore, the sunscreen must be applied every day, regardless of the time of year.

B. Myth: Once they applied the sunscreen in the morning, and this is enough for the whole day.

  • Fact: The sunscreen must be re -applied every 2 hours, especially after bathing, sweating or wiping with a towel.

C. Myth: the higher the SPF, the better the protection.

  • Fact: SPF 30 blocks about 97% UVB ray, and SPF 50 blocks about 98% UVB ray. The difference in protection between SPF 30 and SPF 50 is not as great as it seems. It is more important to properly apply the sunscreen and re -apply it every 2 hours.

D. Myth: Bright people do not need to use the sunscreen.

  • Fact: Dark people have more melanin in the skin, which provides some natural protection from the sun. However, they can still get a sunburn and are at risk of developing skin cancer. Therefore, black people also need to use the sunscreen.

E. Myth: The sunscreen blocks vitamin D.

  • Fact: The sunscreen can reduce the production of vitamin D in the skin. However, most people get enough vitamin D from food or additives. If you are concerned about the deficiency of vitamin D, consult a doctor.

F. Myth: SPF makeup provides sufficient sun protection.

  • Fact: SPF makeup can provide some sun protection, but usually it does not contain a sufficient amount of SPF and is applied unevenly. Therefore, it is necessary to apply sunscreen under makeup.

G. Myth: Physical sunscreen are worse than chemical.

  • Fact: Both physical and chemical sunscreen are effective. Physical filters (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) are considered safer for sensitive skin and the environment. Chemical filters can cause allergic reactions in some people. The choice depends on personal preferences and skin type.

H. Myth: waterproof sunscreen does not need to be re -applied.

  • Fact: The waterproof sunscreen provides protection only for a certain time (usually 40 or 80 minutes) during bathing or sweating. After that, it must be re -applied.

I. Myth: The sunscreen is expensive, and you can do without it.

  • Fact: The sunscreen is an important investment in the health of your skin. There are affordable and effective sunscreen. Prevention of sunburn and skin cancer is much cheaper than treatment.

J. Myth: If I do not feel the heat, I do not need a sunscreen.

  • Fact: Uva-rays that cause premature aging of the skin do not cause a feeling of heat. Even if you do not feel the heat, you are still exposed to harmful solar radiation.

VIII. Conclusion:

The correct choice and use of sunscreen is an important step to protect the skin from the harmful effects of solar radiation. Remember the need for regular use of sunscreen, wearing protective clothing and avoiding tanning beds. Consider the skin regularly for changes and contact a dermatologist if necessary. Caring for the skin is an investment in your health and beauty for many years.

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