Why People Need Sunscreens

By Jake Zertosky

Using sunscreen is an important part of a skin care regimen. It helps protect from the sun's dangerous ultra-violet (UV) rays and protect against sunburn. Sun damage can cause cancer and premature aging. There are a variety of different sunscreens on the market today.

UVA and UVB rays from the sun can cause cancer. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, with an estimated one million cases each year. UVR damages the skin's layers that give skin its supple and youthful appearance. Repeated sun exposure can also cause liver spots and aging spots.

A skin protection factor, also known as SPF, of at least fifteen will be the best in protecting your skin from the sun. Moisturizers and after shave creams often contain sunscreens and can be used for daily sun protection.

Sun damage can harm the skin in more ways than one, causing premature sagging, wrinkles, and aging. The damage can't be seen on the surface but lurks underneath. The skin can appear weathered and older than it should with too much exposure.

Photoaging can cause wrinkles around the eyes and other skin related problems. Once sun damage has ravaged the skin it is very hard to reverse the damage. There are some laser surgeries and creams you can try but it's best to try not to have much damage in the first place.

It is recommended that all adults wear sunscreen except for children under six, who should not have prolonged sun exposure. Even on an overcast day the sun can still do damage. Sunscreen should always be reapplied after swimming or when sweating heavily.

If you're someone who likes to tan or who has skin that doesn't burn easily, at least get a tanning lotion with some sunscreen in it. It may take a little longer to get a tan, but at least you're filtering out the UV rays. There are also sunless tanning options, like sprays and lotions, that are more advanced now so they don't give an orange tint to the skin.

A self tanning product is low risk and dyes the top layer of skin only. The worst that can happen is an allergic reaction or a rash. Some self tanners contain SPF, so be sure to at least have an SPF of 15 to have maximum protection.

Some sunscreens have more protection than others and are better at protecting from the UV rays. There is even a product on the market now that is supposed to deflect the sun by one hundred percent. Be sure to always check labels before buying so you know what level of protection you're getting.

It's always a good idea to wear sunscreen before going out for a long time and having more exposure to the sun. Your skin will thank you and stay more healthy. Be sure to always have it when going out on the water reapply after every activity. Swimming especially can wash off the much needed sunscreen. - 30540

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