As the summer heat gradually takes over our daily routines, sun protection has become an indispensable part of skin protection. As a dermatologist, I remind my patients at this time of year that sun protection isn't just about avoiding sunburn, it's about long-term skin health. Today, I'd like to share with you some common sun protection myths and how to properly protect our skin. Just last summer, a young patient came to my office in a hurry. She thought that using an SPF 15 sunscreen would be enough to cope with the sun at the beach, but as a result, not only did her skin develop red spots, blisters, and even initial heat damage. She overlooks the long-term damage to the skin caused by intense UV rays, including skin aging and potential skin cancer risk. Through this case, I hope to draw everyone's attention to the importance of sun protection.
Introduction to common sense of sun protection
In the hot summer, sun protection becomes especially important. Not just for aesthetics, but for health. Ultraviolet (UV) rays are the harmful part of sunlight that can not only cause sunburn, but also potentially increase the risk of skin cancer and accelerate skin aging. Knowing how to protect yourself from the sun effectively can help us avoid these health risks. 1. Understand SPF and PA logosSPF (Sun Protection Factor) and PA (Protection Grade of UVA) logos commonly used on sunscreen products, providing an intuitive understanding of the sunscreen effect of products. SPF mainly measures the protection of a product against UVB, while PA evaluates the protection against UVA. Choosing the right SPF and PA levels, depending on your skin type, environment and activity type, is key to effective sun protection.
2. Broad-spectrum sunscreen products
It's important to choose a "broad-spectrum" sunscreen, which means that the product protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Both types of UV rays can cause damage to the skin, so comprehensive protection is especially important.
3. Reapply
Sunscreen isn't applied all at once and needs to be reapplied depending on the amount of time you've been out for a long time, sweating, or swimming. Usually, reapplying sunscreen every two hours can maintain the effectiveness of sun protection.
4. Shade measures
In addition to wearing sunscreen, wearing a hat, long-sleeved clothing, and using a parasol are also very effective sun protection measures. Finding shade or using physical shelter in strong sunlight can greatly reduce UV damage.
Common sunscreen misconceptions
1. Myth 1: You don't need sun protection indoors
Many people believe that sunscreen is only needed when they are outdoors. In fact, UV rays can penetrate window glass and cause damage to the skin. Especially for people who often work near windows, sun protection should not be neglected.
2. Myth 2: Don't use sun protection on cloudy days
On cloudy days, although the sun's rays are less intense, up to 80% of ultraviolet rays can still penetrate clouds and cause damage to the skin. Therefore, even if it is cloudy or cloudy, it is necessary to use sunscreen.
3. Myth 3: One application is effective all day
The effects of sunscreen don't last all day. Normally, sunscreen needs to be reapplied about every two hours, and may need to be reapplied more often if you swim or sweat profusely.
4. Myth 4: Waterproof sunscreen doesn't need to be reapplied
Even sunscreens that are advertised as "waterproof" should be reapplied after swimming or sweating. Waterproof sunscreens can provide protection longer in the water or when sweating, but they can still lose their effectiveness over time.
5. Myth 5: All sunscreen products are the same
There are many types of sunscreen products on the market, but not all sunscreens are suitable for everyone. When choosing a sunscreen, consider your skin type, intended activity, and the SPF and PA level of the sunscreen. For example, sensitive skin should choose an oil-free and fragrance-free sunscreen to reduce irritation.
6. Myth 6: Only people with fair skin need sun protection
Everyone's skin is sensitive to UV rays, regardless of skin tone. People with darker skin tones, although naturally have a higher sun protection factor, still need sun protection to prevent sunburn and skin cancer.
The right way to protect yourself from the sun
1. Choose the right sunscreen
It's important to choose a sunscreen that's right for your skin type. Choose a sunscreen with broad spectrum protection, which means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. With an SPF of at least 30, a product with an SPF of 50 or higher is recommended for long periods of time or water activities.
2. Apply sunscreen properly
Apply no less sunscreen than recommended by the manufacturer, and generally use 1 ounce (about two scoops) per use. Make sure to cover all exposed skin, including face, ears, neck, arms, and legs. Apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before going outside the house to ensure the product is fully absorbed and starts to work.
3. Reapply regularly
As mentioned earlier, even waterproof sunscreens need to be reapplied every two hours to maintain protection. If you swim or sweat profusely, you should reapply immediately.
4. Wear protective clothing
Wearing long-sleeved clothing, long pants, and a wide-brimmed hat can provide additional sun protection. There are also specialized sun-protective clothing on the market, which are designed with fabrics that block UV rays.
5. Use umbrellas and seek shade
When outdoors, use a parasol whenever possible or find shade to stay in. Especially during the most intense hours of daylight (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), minimize direct exposure to the sun.
6. Wear sunglasses
Choose sunglasses that block 99% to 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Sunglasses not only protect the eyes from UV rays, but also reduce eye fatigue caused by strong sunlight.