Sunscreen isn’t just a skincare step; it’s a crucial shield against harmful UVA/B rays from the sun. Prolonged exposure without protection leads to premature photoaging and a progressively increased risk of skin cancer. You can easily notice the impact of sun exposure by comparing the texture and color of your skin in areas regularly exposed to the sun vs. areas that rarely see sunlight. Any difference indicates photoaging, which becomes more pronounced as one ages, spotlighting the importance of daily SPF application on the face, arms, and hands. In this blog, we break down the indispensable final step of the CARES skincare routine - sunscreen.

What is photoaging?

Photoaging refers to the premature aging of the skin due to repeated exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and artificial sources, leading to wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and loss of skin elasticity. Photoaging results from the cumulative damage of UV exposure over time, breaking down collagen and causing irregular melanin production, resulting in fine lines, wrinkles, and discolorations. Addressing photoaging involves a robust skincare routine with sun protection, moisturization, and potentially, specialized treatments to manage existing aging signs.

Benefits of wearing sunscreen daily

Incorporating sunscreen into your daily routine is essential for protecting and maintaining healthy skin. The practice carries multifaceted benefits, providing a shield against harmful UV rays and preventing premature aging.

• Protection Against Harmful UV Rays: Regular application of sunscreen shields the skin from the harmful impact of UV rays, reducing the risk of skin conditions and diseases.

• Prevention of Premature Aging: It mitigates premature aging signs, such as wrinkles and fine lines, maintaining skin’s health and youthfulness.

• Reduced Skin Cancer Risks: Daily use substantially decreases your skin’s vulnerability to various skin cancers, especially melanoma.

• Uniform Skin Tone: Sunscreen assists in preventing discoloration and dark spots from sun damage, aiding in maintaining a smoother and more even skin tone.

mineral vs. chemical sunscreen: Which Type of Sunscreen is Best?

Both mineral and chemical sunscreens effectively protect against UV rays, but the best sunscreen is the one you will use consistently.

• Mineral Sunscreens: They reflect rays away from the skin.

• Chemical Sunscreens: They absorb and scatter rays before they can reach the skin.

Is Sunscreen Necessary Indoors?

Yes, utilizing sunscreen maintains its pivotal role even when you are indoors, safeguarding your skin not only from the sun but also from screen-emitted blue light (HEV light) from daily-use gadgets like computers and smartphones, as well as LED lighting, which can potentially induce oxidative stress in the skin. Daily application of sunscreen functions as a protective shield, mitigating the potential damage from HEV light and assisting in combatting premature aging by preventing photoaging. This means it aids in averting the development of fine lines and wrinkles, ensuring that the skin retains a youthful appearance, even amidst constant exposure to screen rays.

Don’t Forget to Reapply!

Plan to reapply sunscreen every two hours when exposed to the sun. If your job mainly keeps you indoors, applying sunscreen under your makeup should suffice for the day. If you spend several hours outdoors, you should plan on reapplying several times throughout the day. Many of our staff keep an EltaMD sunscreen in their purse, car, and at home to ensure continuous skin protection.

IS SUNSCREEN IN YOUR DAILY SKINCARE ROUTINE?

A high-quality sunscreen remains the most vital step in your skincare routine. UV rays constantly pose a threat, inducing signs of aging and increasing your risk for skin cancer. A single base application under your makeup or 1-2 applications throughout the sun-drenched part of the day will have substantial benefits!