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POSTED: 2 May 2023

How to Protect Your Skin from Sun Damage

where you live, your skin from the sun . One of the best tools for the job is sunscreen, which shields your skin from harmful . Daily does more than save you from sun damage, since it also lowers your chances of developing skin cancer. In this we look at the behind sunburn and skin damage, how SPF works and the types of . The aim is to help you protect yourself from the rays you meet every day.

What is the Science of Sunburn & Skin Damage?

Sunburn is a common and painful condition that when the skin meets the sun’s harmful UV rays for an extended period proper . It can have both and on the skin. UV rays, UVB, penetrate the skin’s outer layer and damage the DNA in skin cells. When that DNA is damaged, it triggers a response. The blood vessels in the skin dilate, which causes the redness and inflammation we associate with sunburn. The cells also chemicals that stimulate nerve endings to produce pain and .

In response, the skin may peel and become dry and itchy as it sheds damaged cells and tries to repair itself. Over time, repeated sun exposure and lead to effects. Sun damage can cause premature . It can also raise the risk of skin cancer, common types such as basal cell carcinoma, cell and melanoma. UV radiation is the leading cause of skin cancer, and most skin cancers relate directly to sun . This is why sunscreen is so for preventing the kind of skin damage that may lead to cancer.

What Does SPF Mean & How Does it Work?

Sunscreen uses active that absorb or UV rays before they penetrate the skin, which reduces how much reaches it. Two types of UV ray damage the skin, UVA and UVB. UVA rays age the skin and are linked to skin cancer, whilst UVB rays are the leading cause of sunburn. SPF stands for sun factor, and it how well a protects the skin from UVB radiation, the main cause of .

Sunscreen products show SPF as a number, such as SPF 15, SPF 30 or SPF 50, the amount of on offer. The SPF number also how much longer you can stay in the sun without burning compared with no at all. For example, if you would normally burn after 10 minutes, an SPF 15 would in theory let you stay out for around 150 minutes (10 minutes multiplied by 15). This only holds if you apply and it correctly. The active ingredients, organic or inorganic, act as a that absorbs or UVB rays. This helps sunburn and reduce the risk of skin cancer.

It is essential to that SPF only measures protection against UVB rays. It does not necessarily reflect protection against UVA rays, which also contribute to skin damage and skin cancer. This is why you should choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both. Higher SPF values give more against UVB rays, but the is not proportional to the number. For example, SPF 30 filters out about 97% of UVB rays, whilst SPF 50 about 98%. As a rule, a minimum of SPF 30 is . Even so, you should also stay in the shade and wear clothing and hats, since no blocks 100% of UV .

What’s the Difference Between Chemical & Physical Sunscreen?

There are two main types of sunscreen, chemical and . They protect the skin in ways, which affects how they feel and Nasolabial Fold (Smile Line Fillers) who they suit best.

organic (carbon-based) compounds as their active . These absorb UV radiation before it penetrates the skin, usually using a combination of compounds. Once applied, they form a layer that absorbs UV rays and converts them into heat, which the skin then .

contain compounds, usually or . They sit on top of the skin and form a barrier that reflects and scatters UV rays away. Physical do not absorb into the skin and immediately on .

The choice between them comes down to your and needs, including your skin type, and level. Chemical sunscreens tend to be and easy to apply, with a that suits everyday use and under makeup. They often offer broad coverage against both UVA and UVB too. However, some people with sensitive skin react to certain chemical filters with irritation or allergy. Physical sunscreens tend to be thicker and may leave a white cast because of their reflective ingredients, but those with skin generally them better. Their immediate also makes them a good option for skin, babies and children.

What are Broad-Spectrum & Water-Resistant Sunscreens?

Broad-spectrum sunscreen protects the skin from both UVA and UVB rays. one is therefore important for against the harmful effects of each. Water-resistant is formulated to hold its effectiveness when exposed to water, sweat or moisture. It keeps protecting for a set period even when your skin is wet. It is worth that water-resistant does not mean waterproof, so you still need to reapply after swimming, or off.

When a that offers both and water-resistant protection, a few factors help.

How Do You Apply Sunscreen Effectively?

Applying sunscreen correctly is essential to getting the full benefit. A few tips help you get it right.

When Should You Reapply Sunscreen?

As a rule, reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming, or towelling off. A few other change how often you need to top up, though. If you spend long outdoors, especially during peak hours (typically 10am to 4pm), you may need to reapply more often. The sun’s intensity shifts through the day. Vigorous exercise can rub or wash sunscreen away, which reduces protection and calls for more reapplication. Some formulas also wear off faster than others, so choose a and follow the manufacturer’s advice.

To reapply through the day, these habits help.

diligently keeps your skin from the sun’s UV through the day.

What are the Other Forms of Sun Protection?

alone is not always enough to safeguard your skin from UV radiation. A few other measures add valuable protection. Clothing and accessories offer an extra layer. Opt for woven fabrics that provide more coverage and a higher UV rating, and remember that darker absorb more UV than lighter ones. hats shade the face, neck and ears, whilst protect your eyes from UV rays.

shade is another approach. When the sun is at its peak, stay in the shade as much as you can. Where none exists, use an umbrella, beach tent or other shade. Sun protection in many settings, not just at the beach or pool. UV can still reach you in shaded areas, on cloudy days or during like hiking, or sport. It is worth whatever the or weather, by sunscreen, protective and shade to minimise your skin’s exposure.

Looking after your skin and protecting it from UV rays is essential. Sun damage does more than cause sunburn, since affects over in the UK each year, and proper UV protection helps prevent it. that sun is a effort.

At City Skin Clinic, we are passionate about personalised skincare. We offer custom and using prescription-strength and where appropriate. Our treat conditions including , , and via bespoke treatments designed around you. Book a or start your today. Your towards great skin starts here.

This article is for general only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or . Always consult a medical with any concerns about your skin or .

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