For many of us, sunscreen is the only weapon we have to defend ourselves against the ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun. We so faithfully put it on before going outside to work or play thinking that we are covered. But contemporary research and pronouncements of professionals suggest that we may be in for a rude shock as sunscreen alone cannot protect us from harm caused by the sun. That is why you might still be at risk even with sunscreen: these are the reasons you probably didn’t know about.
1. Incorrect Application: Silent Enemy
Another cause for the failure of the sunscreen formulation to protect the skin is when the directions for its use are not followed properly. A lot of people use sunscreen inadequately, barely rubbing enough of it on the ears, the nape of the neck, and the tops of the feet. However, sunscreen must be applied liberally and uniformly on all the exposed skin at least fifteen to thirty minutes before going out to get sun-tanned. Repeated application is necessary every two hours, or as soon as after swimming or sweating, if it has to be effective.
2. SPF Misconceptions:
There is usually confusion about the SPF (Sun Protection Factor) acronym. As a rule, the SPF means how much protection your skin has from the UVB rays, and it can be noted that the SPF 30 and the SPF 50 do not differ greatly from each other. The protection that different levels offer is relatively small, SPF 30 shields 97% of UVB rays while SPF 50 protects about 98%. However, no sunscreen is a perfect one and protects against the rays completely and thus relying on the SPF figure exclusively is quite dangerous. Further, the public has in one way, shape, or form assumed that since they are using an SPF of 30, 50, or even 100 then there is no need to reapply frequently when this is not true.
3. UVA vs. UVB: The HIDDEN Dangers
It is a well-known fact that most of the commercial sunscreens have UVB protection, which keeps the sunburns at bay. Still, UVA rays are dangerous as they affect the layers of the derma; this makes skin aging and potential skin cancer high. Most sunscreens protect the skin from UVB rays but not UVA rays – these are the rays that lead to long-term harm without symptoms such as sunburn. Always go for multiportion that prevents the rays of both types namely the UVA and the UVB.
4. Environmental Factors: Sunscreen Breakdowns
The utility of your sunscreen can be significantly reduced by sun, water, perspiration as well as sand. Water resistance can be registered with any formula, but often they have to be applied several times a day, if not before swimming or excessive sweating. Also, due to the heat, sunscreen loses its effectiveness in guarding the skin against UV radiation. Sunscreen should be stored at cool and dry places and prefer checking its expiry dates before using the lotion.
5. Clothing and Shade: Underrated Friends
Nevertheless, sunscreen cannot be the only means of protection from the sun’s rays. Top wear of any colored cloth, caps, and sunglasses are some of the physical barriers that protect against UV radiation. Clothes with closer weaves or have a label that says UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) provides the extra shield. Avoiding direct sunlight during the controlled hours of the day such as 10 am to 4 PM is also another way of minimizing the dangerous rays.
6. Skin Type and Sensitivity:
People have different skin types and this determines the way one skin reacts to UV exposure. Fair-skinned people, those with freckles or a family history of skin cancer are more vulnerable and should avoid sun exposure beyond more protection than any type of sunblock. However, other illnesses and some drugs render one sensitive to the sun, and therefore merely using sunscreen is not enough. You have the skin type that you should learn and then follow measures like wearing appropriate clothing and avoiding the sun at its peak.
7. The Myth of Cloudy Days:
Among the deadliest misconceptions, one can identify is that sunscreen should not be applied when it is overcast or cool outside. Other forms of UV rays can pass through the clouds and hence, one can still get sunburned or have long-term effects. Wear sunscreen at all times and avoid areas that reflect sun; water, sand, or snow for instance.
Conclusion
There is one device with which everyone fights the sun equally unsuccessfully sunscreen, which is, however, not a panacea. Components, misapplication, UVA/UVB protection, and environmental and individual factors are all important when aiming at effective sun protection. That is why, wearing some additional protective shield such as clothing, using an umbrella, and, or understanding your skin, you will be safe to bask under the sun.
