How To Choose the Right Sunscreen: NHS Guidelines
Summer is soon going to be at its peak, and although it's recommended to use sunscreen every day, it becomes even more crucial during this season due to longer days, stronger sunlight, and more opportunities to spend time outside.
One of the most forgotten skincare habits is also the most important one to follow on a day-to-day basis. Sun is necessary for vitamin D but going out without sunscreen can damage your skin a lot more than we can think of.
Most of us do not understand the value of sunscreen, as it’s not a part of our daily skincare routine. Sunscreen is a valuable friend in protecting our skin against harmful UVA/UVB radiation and environmental pollutants, whether one is engaged in daily activities or running errands. Its protective properties can significantly reduce the risk of skin damage caused by prolonged exposure to the sun's rays, regardless of the season.
Did you know what is SPF?
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, it is the grade given to a sunscreen product depending on the level of protection against UVB rays.
A product with SPF 30 will protect you from 96.7% of the sun rays, whereas an SPF 50 product will protect you from 98% of the UVB rays.
Difference Between UVB Rays & UVB A Rays
UVB (Ultraviolet B) and UVA (Ultraviolet A) are two different variations of UV rays that are present in sunlight. UVB rays tend to have shorter wavelengths and have the ability to penetrate the outer layer of the skin, causing sunburn, skin damage, and an increased risk of skin cancer.
UVB rays are strongest during the summer months and at midday.
UVA rays, on the other hand, have longer wavelengths and can penetrate deeper into the skin, causing skin aging, wrinkles, and an increased risk of skin cancer.
UVA rays are present year-round and can penetrate through clouds and glass.
Both UVB and UVA rays can cause skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer. Therefore, it's essential to use sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection that blocks both UVA and UVB rays.
Why Is Sunscreen Important For Skincare?
Sunscreen is important for skin care because it helps to protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays.
According to the NHS, sun damage can increase the chances of Skin cancer, and prolonged exposure to UV radiation can cause various skin problems such as sunburn, premature aging, wrinkles, and age spots.
Doctors advise spending time in the shade when the sun is strongest. In the UK, this is between 11 am and 3 pm from March to October. Regular use of sunscreen with a broad-spectrum SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 30 or higher can help to prevent these skin problems. It works by absorbing, reflecting, or scattering the sun's UV rays before they can penetrate the skin.
Sunscreen should be evenly applied to all areas of the skin, even on cloudy days, and reapplied every two hours or after sweating or swimming.
What factor Of Sunscreen (SPF) Should I Use?
Remember that sunscreen alone is not enough to shield yourself from the sun's rays. Wear appropriate clothing and stay in the shade during peak sun hours.
When selecting a sunscreen, check the label for A minimum sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 to safeguard against UVB. At least 4-star UVA protection.
Look for the letters "UVA" enclosed in a circle on the label, indicating that it complies with EU regulations for UVA protection.
Ensure that the sunscreen has not expired before use, and do not stay in the sun for a longer time than you would without sunscreen.
NHS Guideline For Sunscreens in the UK
The NHS (National Health Service) recommends using sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and 4-star UVA protection in the UK. It is advised to apply sunscreen liberally and frequently, at least every two hours, and more often if swimming or sweating.
It is also recommended to use protective clothing and stay in the shade during peak sun hours, typically between 11 am and 3 pm.
People with fair skin, moles, or a family history of skin cancer may need to take extra precautions and seek advice from their doctor or a dermatologist.
Protection From The Sun For Children
NHS guidelines suggest that children need extra protection from the sun's harmful rays in the UK.
Babies under 6 months old out of direct sunlight altogether and ensure they wear suitable clothing to protect their skin.
For older children, it is recommended to use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and 4-star UVA protection.
Protective clothing, such as hats and long-sleeved shirts, should also be worn, and children should be encouraged to stay in the shade during peak sun hours. It's worth noting that children can burn even on cloudy or overcast days, so it's essential to remain vigilant.
Parents and young adults should be made aware of the signs of sunburn, which include redness, swelling, and blistering, and seek medical attention if necessary.
We all know how important vitamin D is for our health, but it is important to understand that constant unprotected in the sun might give you a tan, but it may put you at risk for skin conditions and problems.
If you plan to go out of your house, ensure you apply sunscreen:
30 minutes before you go out or just before you head out!
Stay happy, and be protected!
