Skin is the largest and one of the most crucial organs in your body. Protecting your skin is particularly important in summer when the intensity of harmful UVB rays is higher. Using sunscreen should be an essential part of your everyday skincare in summer. It is a simple and effective at-home skin treatment, but you should have a basic understanding of different types of sunscreens and how to use them.
Which is the Best Sunscreen for You?
The type of sunscreen you use for protecting your skin in summer is a matter of personal choice, but you need to ensure that it offers UVA and UVB (broad spectrum) protection and has an SPF of 30 or more. It should also be water-resistant for maximum benefit. You can choose sunscreens in the form of creams, lotions, ointments, gels, sprays, and wax sticks.
Creams are more suited for facial application, particularly if you have dry skin. Gels will work well for hairy sites, such as the scalp. Sticks are useful for applying around your eyes. Parents sometimes prefer sprays for their kids because they are easier to apply. For best skincare, you should apply these products adequately to cover all exposed areas of your skin.
Some of the sunscreens may also be available as a blend with cosmetics and moisturizers. Discuss with your skin specialist if you want to use these combinations because you will need to reapply them suitably in order to maximize your sun protection.
Do not apply sunscreen products near heat or a flame or while smoking, and do not inhale them. If you have sensitive skin, it may be better to see your dermatologist and seek appropriate skin treatment as needed.
Physical vs. Chemical Sunscreens
A physical sunscreen will protect your skin like a shield. It will remain on the skin surface and will actively deflect the UV rays. The key ingredient in a physical sunscreen is titanium oxide and/or zinc oxide. This sunscreen could be more useful for you if you have sensitive skin.
A chemical sunscreen will function as a sponge on your skin and will absorb the harmful UV rays. Active ingredients in this type of sunscreen may include avobenzone, oxybenzone, octocrylene, octisalate, octinoxate, or homosalate. Rubbing this formulation into your skin is easier and it will not leave a white residue on your skin.
What is the Best SPF You should Use?
Your dermatologist will advise you to use a sunscreen that has an SPF of 30 or higher. This is ideal for protecting your skin because it blocks as much as 97% of the UVB rays. Sunscreens with a very high SPF are also available, which can block more UVB rays. However, none of these products can block 100% of the UVB rays.
You should also know that the application time for all SPFs is the same. In other words, you cannot expect that a higher SPF sunscreen will last longer on your skin. It is best to reapply sunscreen every two hours or so when you are going to be outdoors this summer.
Consult with a Dermatologist for Your Skin Care
Your skin is a vital part of your beauty and youth. DermaClinic in Coral Gables has proven and innovative solutions to make you look and feel amazing. To schedule an appointment, call us at 786-210-4234 today or contact us online.
