May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month
As the weather warms up and the sun shines brighter, you may find you are reaching for your SPF, or putting it on the kids. But, it's crucial to discuss the significance of incorporating sunscreen with a high Sun Protection Factor (SPF) into your daily skincare routine. Regardless of your age, skin type, or the climate you live in, wearing SPF every day is a vital step towards safeguarding your skin against the harmful effects of UVA and UVB rays.
Although Ireland is not a 'sunny' climate, we still need to be popping that SPF on every, single day (January to December).
In this blog post, we'll explore why SPF is essential, the differences between UVA and UVB rays, and how to choose the right sunscreen for your skin.
Understanding UVA and UVB Rays
Before delving into the importance of SPF, let's first understand the two types of ultraviolet rays that can damage our skin: UVA and UVB:
- UVA Rays: UVA rays account for the majority of our sun exposure and can penetrate deep into the skin's dermis. They are responsible for premature ageing, wrinkles, and sunspots. UVA rays are present throughout the year, even on cloudy or rainy days.
- UVB Rays: UVB rays are more intense than UVA rays and primarily affect the skin's outer layer, the epidermis. They are responsible for sunburns and are the primary cause of skin cancer. UVB rays are more prevalent during the summer months and at higher altitudes.
The Importance of SPF
SPF is a measure of how well a sunscreen can protect the skin from UVB rays. However, it's crucial to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Here's why incorporating SPF into your daily skincare routine is non-negotiable:
- Protection against Skin Cancer: Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer worldwide, and exposure to harmful UV rays is a significant risk factor. Wearing SPF daily acts as a shield, reducing the risk of developing skin cancer, including melanoma, the deadliest form.
- Prevention of Premature Ageing: UVA rays can cause premature aging of the skin, leading to wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots. By wearing SPF every day, you can significantly reduce these visible signs of aging and maintain a youthful complexion.
- Defence against Sunburn: UVB rays are the primary cause of sunburns. Even a single episode of severe sunburn can increase the risk of developing skin cancer later in life. Regular use of SPF helps prevent sunburn and protects your skin from immediate and long-term damage.
Choosing the Right SPF
When selecting a sunscreen, consider the following factors:
- SPF Level: Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. SPF 30 filters out approximately 97% of UVB rays.
- Skin Type: If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, choose a sunscreen specifically formulated for your needs. Look for "non-comedogenic" or "oil-free" options.
- Application and Reapplication: Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed areas of skin. Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating.
- Everyday Use: Make SPF a non-negotiable part of your daily routine, irrespective of the weather conditions or the amount of time spent outdoors. Harmful UV rays can penetrate through clouds and windows, so protection is needed even on cloudy days or while indoors.
Blue Light
Computer and phone screens emit a type of radiation called high-energy visible (HEV) light or blue light. Blue light has a shorter wavelength and higher energy compared to UVA and UVB rays from the sun. While the amount of blue light emitted by screens is significantly lower than that of the sun, prolonged exposure to electronic devices can still have an impact on our skin.
Excessive exposure to blue light can lead to various skin concerns, including accelerated ageing, hyperpigmentation, and inflammation. It can also disrupt the natural sleep-wake cycle and affect overall skin health. While blue light is not known to directly cause skin cancer, its effects on the skin should not be overlooked.
SPF can play a role in protecting the skin from the potential damage caused by blue light. Some sunscreens are formulated with ingredients that offer broad-spectrum protection, not only against UVA and UVB rays but also against certain HEV light wavelengths. These sunscreens create a physical or chemical barrier on the skin that helps to absorb, reflect, or scatter harmful radiation. By wearing SPF daily, you can add an extra layer of defence against the potential effects of blue light on your skin.
Conclusion
Skin cancer is a serious concern, but by incorporating SPF into your daily routine, you can significantly reduce the risk of developing it, while safeguarding your skin against premature ageing and sunburns. Remember, no exceptions!
You can shop the full Sun Protection Collection here.
