Sunscreens are products specially formulated to protect the skin from ultraviolet (UV) rays emitted by the sun.
There are two main types of UV rays that can damage the skin: UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays can penetrate deep into the skin, causing premature aging, wrinkles, and dark spots. UVB rays, on the other hand, can burn the surface of the skin, causing sunburn and increasing the risk of developing skin cancer.
Sunscreens contain sunscreens that absorb or reflect UV rays, thus reducing their harmful effect on the skin. These sunscreens are often classified by their sun protection factor (SPF), which indicates the product's ability to protect the skin from UVB rays. Adequate sun protection requires the use of a cream with an SPF of at least 30. However, it's important to remember that SPF refers only to UVB protection and does not indicate UVA protection. Therefore, it's advisable to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen that offers both UVA and UVB protection.
Correct application of sunscreen is essential to ensure maximum effectiveness.
It's recommended to apply sunscreen at least 15-30 minutes before sun exposure to allow the product to absorb into the skin. It's also important to reapply sunscreen every two hours or after swimming or excessive sweating, as sweat and water can reduce its effectiveness.
In addition to sun protection, sunscreens also offer additional benefits for our skin. Many sunscreen formulas contain hydrating and nourishing ingredients that help keep skin hydrated and soft. Some sunscreens also contain antioxidants, such as vitamin E and coenzyme Q10, which help counteract the damage caused by free radicals generated by UV rays.
