Ultraviolet radiation is a powerful factor of the electromagnetic spectrum emitted by the sun and traveling millions of miles to reach us. You may be asking why we are discussing science here-ultraviolet light can have a considerable impact on our skin, from hyperpigmentation to aging. This is why any skincare routine without UV protection isn't worth the effort as it can leave the skin with uneven patches and sometimes painful feeling. The prolonged exposure might cause long-term damage putting you at risk of skin cancer.
How UVA and UVB rays can affect your skin?
We all know that Sunlight is essential for us in many ways. However, do you have an idea that the sun rays between 11 am to 4 pm emit UVA and UVB rays, which can harm your skin in the most unexpected way? It can cause skin issues such as wrinkles and in worst cases photo damage and some skin cancers.
Strikingly, not just outdoors but inside your home and offices you should apply sunscreen to protect your skin from UVA and UVB rays. Usually, people who are born near the equator have dark skin tone and those who are from tropical regions have brown skin tone and temperate regions have lighter skin tone. But the good thing is that you can always protect your skin from tanning, burning, aging and other harmful effects easily.
Let's delve a little deeper;
- Remember, a tan is your skin's way of attempting to protect itself from potential harm.
- Around half of UV damage is due to free radicals, which are hazardous for skin cells. The remaining UV harm is from direct cell destruction and DNA change.
- Additionally, UV light stimulates enzymes known as matrix metalloproteinases, that break down collagen and harm the skin's assist structure, inducing sagging and deepening wrinkles. Unfortunately, these enzymes may also inhibit new collagen formation.
- You may notice sagging, wrinkles, and thin, inelastic skin when you look in the mirror: these are signs of aging.
- UV light accumulates a protein called 'progerin', which limits the lifespan of skin cells and reduces their ability to regenerate – weakening our skin's protective barrier. However, we have the power to minimize our exposure to UV light.
- Melanin gives dark skin its pigmentation and protects it from UV light and free radical damage. Therefore, people with dark skin are relatively more protected from sun damage and aging.
What is SPF?
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor – and it's essential when protecting your skin from the sun's UV rays. SPF is like a fractional measure, so while outdoors make sure you lather up with SPF sunscreen! This will ensure you don't suffer negative effects of the sun's damage compared to unprotected skin.
How to prevent tanning?
- Tans are perfectly avoidable! Schedule outdoor activities in the cooler hours of the day - before 10am and after 4pm.
- Utilize clothes to cover your skin - there are lots of lightweight, breathable protective fabrics to choose from now.
- Plus, don’t forget sunscreen (the higher the SPF, the better).
- Don’t neglect a hat with a big brim to cover those extra-exposed areas like your neck and ears. You’re sure to find that easy-breezy summer glow you always wanted!
Does Sunscreen Prevent Tanning?
The short answer is yes, sunscreen can help prevent tanning. But there are several factors that impact how effectively it works. A good rule of thumb is that if you use SPF 30 or higher and re-apply regularly, you should be able to avoid getting a sunburn or any lasting skin damage from UV rays.
However, sunscreen won’t completely stop you from tanning. The reason for this is because your skin will still absorb some of the UV rays from the sunlight, which can cause minor changes in coloration even with sunscreen on. So even if you wear SPF 30 every day when going outdoors, you might still end up with a light tan at the end of the season.
There are other ways to prevent sunburns and reduce your risk of skin cancer while still enjoying the sunshine!
Benefits of Sunscreen
- Sunscreen will shield your body from the sun’s ultraviolet rays which leave several harmful effects such as sunburn, aging, and pigmentation.
- The sun rays are separated by their different wavelength into types such as UVA and UVB which exert a variety of effects in the skin due to the absorption patterns of chromophores.
- There are two basic types of sunscreen: physical and chemical blockers. Physical blockers like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide reflect the sun’s rays by acting as a physical barrier.Chemical blockers absorb the sun rays and they deteriorate more quickly than physical sunscreens because their ability to absorb the sun diminishes.
- Wearing sunscreen helps to protect against the development of all three types of skin cancer, cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma.
Try Ningen Sunflower Sun Care Cream
Ningen Sunflower Sun care cream is dermatologically tested and formulated with natural ingredients, including Sunflower, Geranium, Wheat Germ and Liquorice, making it ideal for protecting tender skin without irritation or heavy scents. It will also add a pleasant touch of nature to your daily beauty routine. This exquisite sun care cream will protect your skin from the harmful ultraviolet radiation of the sun while providing a deep nourishment to restore its natural radiance. It will help to boost your skin’s health, keeping it hydrated and brightened. Additionally, it is free of parabens, phthalates, making it safe for all skin types.
Your skin will love these ingredients;
Sunflower
Sunflower oil is rich in antioxidants and vitamins to soothe skin, reduce inflammation and protect your skin from oxidative stress. It has moisturizing properties that help restore skin moisture levels to keep skin hydrated and naturally healthy.With essential fatty acids like omega 3, 6 and 9, sunflower oil helps increase collagen production for firmer, younger looking skin.Vitamin E infused in the oil keeps your skin well nourished while helping it retain more natural moisture.
Geranium
It improves skin tone, reduces inflammation and heals breakouts with a regular application of geranium oil.The antifungal properties of geranium support healthy skin. Gently restore suppleness to dry or aging skin with the high levels of antioxidants. Antibacterial properties of geranium oil help keep your face clean and healthy.
Wheat Germ
Get soft, smooth, healthy looking skin with naturally derived wheat germ that won't dry out your face.Moisturizes deeply to provide a protective barrier for sensitive skin to prevent oxidation. Helps even out skin tone and reduce the appearance of discoloration for a more radiant complexion.Replenishes cells for improved elasticity and plumpness to reveal younger looking skin.Delivers essential proteins, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to improve texture and health.
Liquorice
Contains natural compounds like glycyrrhizin and flavonoids, which are beneficial for skin health.Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce redness and irritation. Enhances the production of collagen, keeping it elastic, soft and healthy.Vitamin C helps to protect the skin from environmental damage while licorice's saponins keep it nourished.
How much sunscreen should you apply?
It is recommended that you apply a generous amount of sunscreen in order to get the best protection. A good rule of thumb is to use about one ounce (about a shot glass full) of sunscreen for your entire body. Make sure to rub the sunscreen into your skin until it is completely absorbed and be sure to reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
How many times should you apply sunscreen?
It is recommended that you apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating. It is also important to remember to apply sunscreen to all exposed areas of skin, including the face, neck, ears, hands, and any other areas that may be exposed to the sun. Additionally, it is important to use sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 30 in order to get the best protection from UV radiation.
To cap it all Sunscreen is an essential component in any summer routine and it does in fact prevent tanning. Sunscreen works by creating a barrier between your skin and the UV rays, blocking them before they can harm your cells. While sunscreen won't completely prevent a golden glow from developing, it significantly reduces the chances of tanning so you'll look fresh, calm and healthy all summer long! So make sure to slather on that sunscreen before hitting the beach or hiking trail! Get ready to bask in the glow of Vitamin D, while keeping safe from harm.
