Winter is retreating, and the sun is growing stronger – time for sunscreen. As warmer days arrive, the risk of skin damage from excessive sun exposure increases.
Why should we protect ourselves? It’s not just about preventing spots and wrinkles—it’s about safeguarding our health in the short, medium, and long term. And, by the way, sun protection is essential all year round, regardless of the season.
Sunscreen is the indispensable finishing touch to any effective skincare routine. (Link here to the post “The Perfect Square for Your Skincare Routine.”)
To maintain timeless beauty, you need to base it on a healthy lifestyle. In that case, Sury Saray Authors Beauty in Mallorca will be your safe harbor. We put our expertise at the service of your well-being.
The Sun and Our Skin
First, let’s clarify something: don’t be afraid of the sun! Its radiation is an essential source of light and heat for life. For example, sun exposure helps our bodies synthesize the irreplaceable vitamin D, among many other benefits.
However, as with everything, we must find a healthy balance. Solar radiation can also cause skin damage—some irreversible, some even life-threatening.
Excessive or careless sun exposure can lead to sunburn, precancerous lesions, and even skin cancer (such as the dangerous melanoma).
In less severe cases, it can cause premature aging, with very visible signs. The loss of skin elasticity leads to wrinkles, from fine lines to deep creases. Dark spots can also appear. Oh no!
Types of Sun Rays and Their Effects on Our Skin
What is solar radiation? It’s the energy emitted by the sun, which we perceive as light and heat. But on a deeper level, it consists of different types of electromagnetic waves (some invisible to the human eye).
All of them impact our skin health! Visible radiation, or common sunlight, is less harmful than ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Meanwhile, infrared radiation, due to the heat it generates, can contribute to skin dehydration.
Within the ultraviolet spectrum, the most well-known are UVA and UVB rays, but there are also deep ultraviolet rays (UVC), the most dangerous of all! Fortunately, the atmosphere filters nearly 100% of them.
UVA rays are the primary cause of premature aging. On the other hand, UVB rays are crucial for vitamin D production but can also damage the DNA of skin cells.
Skin Damage Caused by Ultraviolet Radiation
Solar radiation can have devastating effects on our skin. UVA rays penetrate deeply and cause photoaging, leading to the effects mentioned earlier. (They are also emitted by tanning beds and sun lamps.)
UVB rays, in particular, are the main culprits behind sunburn—an inflammatory reaction to excessive sun exposure. Symptoms include redness, pain, and in severe cases, blisters.
UVB radiation can also cause the outer layer of the skin to darken and thicken, and it may contribute to eye problems and immune system issues.
In general, prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays can lead to actinic keratosis—rough, scaly patches on the skin that experts consider precancerous.
How to Protect Your Skin from Solar Radiation
The most basic strategy is to avoid direct sun exposure, especially between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM when UV radiation is at its peak. Whenever possible, stay in the shade!
Another great option is wearing protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts, high-neck blouses, long pants, wide-brimmed hats, high socks, and gloves.
Nowadays, the market offers garments made from fabrics specifically designed to protect against ultraviolet radiation, as well as sunglasses and umbrellas.
And last but certainly not least, apply sunscreen to your skin. There are two main types of sunscreens to consider. Let’s take a look!
Types of Sunscreens
There are two main types of sunscreens available: physical (or mineral) sunscreens and chemical sunscreens. Physical sunscreens contain ingredients that act as a physical barrier, reflecting sunlight (such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide).
Chemical sunscreens contain compounds that absorb UV radiation, convert it into heat, and release it from the skin.
Physical sunscreens are ideal for sensitive skin and provide immediate protection.
Chemical sunscreens tend to be lighter and absorb quickly, but they can irritate sensitive skin. It’s generally recommended to apply them about 30 minutes before sun exposure.
How to Choose the Best Sunscreen for Your Skin
Here are some key factors to consider when making this important decision. Choose a sunscreen that suits your skin type.
Opt for broad-spectrum protection, meaning it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
Select a sunscreen with at least SPF 30. What does SPF mean? Sun Protection Factor—it indicates how much UVB radiation the product can block.
An SPF of 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks around 98%. Higher SPF options are also available.
Regardless of SPF level, sunscreen must be reapplied several times a day to maintain effective protection. The general rule is every two hours, though this may vary depending on environmental conditions and product quality.
Sun Protection with Sury Saray Authors Beauty
In summary, protecting our skin from solar radiation is essential for keeping it healthy and preventing skin damage. The best approach is to combine multiple protective strategies.
Remember: Use sunscreen, cover your skin with protective clothing when outdoors, and avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours. Your health and beauty will thank you!
Additionally, maintaining proper skin hydration and nutrition will help your skin better withstand sun exposure. You’ll find plenty of options in the Sury Saray Authors Beauty catalog of products and services.
Visit us through our online store or at our location in Mallorca. Did you find this article helpful? Share it with a loved one—what better gift than useful information for everyday life? And don’t forget to follow us on social media!