Protecting your family from the dangerous rays of the sun is crucial in keeping the skin healthy and wrinkle-free. Sunscreen helps by reflecting, absorbing, and/or scattering harmful radiation the sun radiates to our planet.
Sunscreen comes in many different forms: lotion, spray, gel, cream, and some brands provide it as makeup. Failure to use sunscreen can develop in aging of the skin, and in some cases, skin cancer.
When purchasing a sunscreen, it is essential to read the label and know what type of sunscreen you are applying. There are some things that might not make sense to everyone; some of them are:
* UVA (Ultraviolet A) – This unseen ultraviolet radiation has a lengthy wavelength that enters into the depths of the skin. These rays are bad because they can enter the skin without it being felt.
* UVB (Ultraviolet B) – This radiation is a variation of light that the sun emits. The wavelength of this type of radiation is shorter than UVA and usually leads to sunburn and other skin ailments.
* SPF (Sun Protection Factor) – This gages the protection that a specific sunscreen provides you after application. A number is issued to each bottle of sunscreen indicating the strength of it. The higher types provides more protection than the lower numbers. It is suggested that people being exposed to the sun use at minimum, SPF 15 to the body periodically and reapply If the sunscreen comes off.
* UVR (Ultraviolet Radiation) – UVR is radiation from the sun that causes premature aging, spotting, sunburn, crows feet, and skin cancer in some. Also, these harmful rays can reduce the effectiveness of one’s immune system.
* Water Resistant – Some sunscreens are good and water resistant in that they resist water and make the sunscreen stay on. Swimmers can continue to swim for longer time in the sun and still be protected. Although, it is suggested to reapply sunscreen, even when water resistant, because it looses its effectiveness through longer stays in the water. Water resistant does not equal water proof.
Outside of the different terms on sunscreen bottles, there are also two types of sunscreens: physical combatants and chemical combatants. Physical blockers like in the name, physically block hazardous elements of the sun by reflecting back the harmful UVA and UVB radiation. Chemical blockers on the other hand absorb some of the radiation; usually the ones with shorter wavelengths.
Whatever type you buy, it is important to use enough and reapply periodically. Sunscreens will be as effective as you let them – one must rub on thoroughly and reapply every two or so hours. The sun can be a great and marvelous part of nature. Though, it can be your worst nightmare if you fail protect yourself. Learning about what to look for in a sunscreen can also help to reduce the chances of serious, permanent skin damage and other unwanted skin conditions.
You must log in to post a comment.