HOW TO FIND BEST SUNSCREEN PROTECTION FOR SAFE SUNBATHING
We can’t avoid exposure to the sun, either when you are traveling or at work, or when the weather is cold or hot. The lovely sun we used to draw when we were kids, now discovered to be a cruel monster and deeply harmful to our body and skin. The harms of the sun and the ultraviolet rays are underestimated, starting from skin redness, burns, sunstroke to end with skin cancer. Take a few minutes reading on how to find the best sunscreen to wear and to avoid any harm to your skin.
How to find the best sunscreen
UV radiation (UVR) that reaches the Earth’s surface can be divided into UVA & UVB. UVA causes premature aging of our skin, while UVB rays burn our skin; both can cause skin cancer. When you choose the sunscreen, look for broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB. Although, sunscreen provides excellent UVB protection, yet, they lack in UVA protection.
Protection from harming sun UV rays is called photo-protection. Even though sun avoidance is an easy way of protection, it is not indeed, because of our occupation and lifestyle. Routine use of sunscreens, either chemically or physically, definitely decrease the risk of skin cancer. Trying to schedule activities before 10 am and after 4 pm (daylight savings time) avoids solar exposure at times of peak intensity. Also, on cloudy days, as much as 80% of UVR may still penetrate the cloud cover.
SUN PROTECTION FACTOR (SPF)
The sun protection factor (SPF) is the dose of UVR required to produce erythema (skin redness). SPF is a good measure of how well a sunscreen will protect the skin from UVB. SPF15 provides full UV-B protection for healthy people, As it filters out more than 93% of UVB. SPF 30 filters out about 97% and SPF 50 filters out about 98%.
Although the difference of 4% and 1% seems insignificant, it provides more excellent protection. Before you buy a sunscreen cream ask about the SPF, it is always written on the packet. Choose one with SPF of at least 30 and if you are doing a high outdoor activity, choose an SPF of 50 or higher. Always select ‘big name brands,’ As they have the resources to perform studies which evaluate the efficiency and tolerability of their products.
MODE OF APPLICATION
The way you apply the sunscreen cream is crucial. Lotions and creams are better than sprays, as sprays are inconsistent. No one puts sprays on heavy enough to reach the stated SPF level on the bottle. Always apply the sunscreen cream generously and evenly, which is the key for them to work effectively. Don’t forget to cover all the areas exposed to the sun.
STABILITY
Photostability refers to the ability of a sunscreen to remain intact effectively protect the skin. When sunscreen expires, it degrades and becomes less effective. Even if your bottle has not expired, it is only valid if stored in a cool, dry place. That is dangerous because expired sunscreen may not work at all. A ‘water-resistant’ product maintains the SPF level after 40 or 80 minutes of water immersion. Even if you won’t be in the water, that tells you how long it will stay on while you’re sweating.
SAFETY
Most of the sunscreens are safe. However, you should be aware of the disadvantages. Skin irritation, burning or stinging without objective skin-redness is the most common sensitivity complaint. This irritation is most frequently observed in the eye area. True skin allergy to sunscreens is very rare. Better to apply a small amount of the sunscreen before using it for the first time. Regular sunscreen use can diminish UV-dependent vitamin D production, especially in children and the elderly. In this case, Doctors recommend daily vitamin D supplement either through diet or medication.
In the end, sunscreen is essential during travel and daily life, in order not to endanger your health. Hope by now you have a general overview about how to find best sunscreen and UVR harms. Next time, I think you know what you are looking for when you buy a sunscreen.
Traveler78
Hello, My name is Yahya. I am 39 years old and soon will be 40. I was born and lived in the historic city of Cairo, Egypt. I Work as a doctor; cardiologist. Traveling is my passion. I am proud to be the owner and creator of Traveler78 website. If you like the material on my website, please subscribe to my website and share it with your friends. Also, you can follow me on your favorite social network. For further information, please contact me either in the comments or via E-mail.
19 Comments
Binge on Basics
I always carry a sunscreen whenever I travel. It is a must
Traveler78
Yes and you did the right thing
Monique Starks
Very helpful information! I’m still on the hunt for a good 100% natural sunscreen. I’m sure I’ll find something soon. Thanks for sharing!
Traveler78
Welcome and I wish you good luck
Traveler78
sprays are protective too, all you have to do is to apply it evenly and generously
toastycritic
I am always wary of sunbathing for a variety of reasons. But knowing which sunscreen is right for you is very important. Definitely something you have to always have on hand.
Traveler78
Definitely, the article is conveying a message that you don’t have to be a doctor to choose a good sun-screen
georginawangui
This post is going to help a lot of people who are unsure on whether to use sunscreen, and which one is the best..thank you for the tips
Traveler78
You are welcome and that is the main aim of that article…it is to tell that not all sun-screens are the same
Traveler78
that’s very nice to hear….you should discuss your doctor regarding the non oily lotions
delhifundos2014
If we want to reduce damage from the sun then we have to use sunscreen for sure. So applying sunscreen is so important. Thanks for sharing the information
Traveler78
welcome and thanks
Traveler78
yes but always take care to apply it properly
Traveler78
Thank you. yes, sunscreen is usually underestimated
Traveler78
Yes I hope by now you can find your best sunscreen
shoma
Sunscreen is so very important. I wear it everyday rain or shine.
Traveler78
nice, good to know
Traveler78
l know skin reaction is scary, however sunburn is definitely more serious. Better to consult your doctor if there’s any concern. thank you
Traveler78
Definitely, but you got to choose the right one