On a hot summer afternoon, Grandma Li and her friends chilled out on a park bench. Their conversation quickly turned to the recent health topic – sun protection. "My son bought me a lot of sunscreen and said that the sun is very damaging to my skin now, but when I was a kid, I ran around and it didn't really matter." Grandma Li said with a smile. Her friend Grandma Zhang shook her head and responded: "Yes, but now doctors say that ultraviolet rays are strong, and we still need to pay attention to sun protection when we are old." In this way, the conversation between the two elderly people led to an important topic - the necessity of sun protection and the scientific method.
With the increase in UV intensity and the thinning of the ozone layer, summer sun protection has become a daily care focus that cannot be ignored by each of us. Especially for middle-aged and elderly people, due to skin aging, the skin should be given additional protection to prevent the occurrence of skin cancer and photoaging. Therefore, it is especially important to know the correct knowledge of sun protection and take appropriate protective measures.
The selection and use of sunscreen products: wisdom under the umbrella
Choose the right sunscreen
The choice of sunscreen product should be based on a few key factors: SPF, product type, and skin type. First of all, the sun protection index, or SPF (Sun Protection Factor), indicates the protection of sunscreen products against UVB light, while the PA rating measures the protection against UVA light. It is generally recommended that sunscreens for daily use have an SPF of at least 30 and have a PA+++ or higher logo to ensure broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB.
Secondly, sunscreen products are divided into two categories: physical sunscreen and chemical sunscreen. Physical sunscreens, such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, provide protection by reflecting UV rays and are suitable for sensitive skin or people who need to go outside for long periods of time. Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, are more versatile by absorbing ultraviolet rays and converting them into heat, but they can cause discomfort for people with sensitive skin. Consumers should choose the right type of product based on their skin type and daily activity needs.
Use sunscreen properly
Proper use of sunscreen is equally important. Sunscreen should be applied 15 to 20 minutes before going outside to ensure that the product is fully absorbed and forms a protective layer. In addition, sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating, even if it's labeled "waterproof" or "long-lasting."
A study in middle-aged and elderly people showed that timely reapplication of sunscreen can effectively prolong the skin's protection time and reduce skin damage caused by UV rays. In addition, using daily skincare products and cosmetics with sun protection is also a good option, especially for those who are not used to using traditional sunscreens.
Storage and management of sunscreen
The effectiveness of sunscreen is also related to how it is stored. Sunscreen products should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and high temperatures, as high temperatures may cause sunscreen ingredients to break down and reduce the effectiveness of the product. Also, pay attention to check the expiration date of sunscreen, expired sunscreen products are not only less effective, but may also cause skin irritation.
With the attention to detail mentioned above and the correct way to use it, we can maximize the effectiveness of sunscreen products and protect the skin from UV rays. After all, healthy skin is the first line of defense against the challenges of the natural environment.
All-round sun protection strategy for summer: More than just sunscreen
Although the summer sun is warm, the strong ultraviolet rays are an invisible killer of the skin. Total sun protection isn't just about wearing sunscreen, it's also about protecting your clothing, the environment, and your daily habits.
Sun protection for clothing: a practical first line of defense
Using sun-protective clothing designed for summer is an effective way to protect your skin. Choosing clothing that is lightweight, breathable, and has a UV Protection Factor (UPF) label can significantly reduce the damage caused by UV rays to your skin. In addition, a wide-brimmed hat and UV protective glasses should also be a must-have for summer outings.
Environmental sun protection: choose when and where to choose wisely
Try to avoid outdoor activities during periods of intense sunlight (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). If you need to go outside, choose a shaded or sheltered place to spend less time in direct sunlight. The use of a parasol can provide a cool space for the skin to move around, effectively insulating some of the UV radiation.
Diet: The secret to inner sun protection
Foods high in antioxidants, such as blueberries, pomegranates, tomatoes, and carrots, can help fight free radical damage caused by UV rays and boost sun protection from the inside out. Regular intake of these foods can enhance the skin's ability to repair itself and resist UV rays.
Break the five misconceptions of sun protection: scientific sun protection, healthier skin
Many people have some misconceptions about summer sun protection, and these misconceptions can weaken the effectiveness of sun protection and even increase the risk of skin damage.
Myth 1: You don't need sun protection on cloudy days
Even on cloudy days, about 80% of UV rays can still penetrate clouds and cause damage to the skin. Therefore, it is necessary to use sunscreen every day, rain or shine.
Myth 2: One application of sunscreen is enough
The protective effect of sunscreen usually only lasts for a few hours. If you spend a lot of time outdoors, you should reapply every two to three hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
Myth 3: All sunscreens block UV rays completely
No sunscreen can block 100% of all UV rays. Sunscreens are an effective means of reducing UV damage, but they cannot be relied upon entirely. Combined with sun protection and sun shading measures, the skin can be protected more comprehensively.
Myth 4: Sunscreen should only be used before going out
In fact, sunscreen should be applied 15 to 20 minutes before going outside, so that it can form an effective protective layer before you are exposed to the sun. In addition, UV rays entering through windows indoors can also cause damage to the skin, so sun protection should be taken care of even indoors.
Myth 5: It is okay to use a small amount of high SPF sunscreen
A sunscreen with a high SPF does provide stronger protection, but the right amount is key. Most people don't apply enough to achieve the stated SPF protection level, so make sure it's applied adequately and evenly to exposed skin.
Through scientific methods and correct cognition, you can effectively carry out summer sun protection, protect skin health, and avoid long-term damage caused by ultraviolet rays. With the right sun protection, our skin can still be fair and smooth in summer.