Don’t Forget SPF!
Most of us probably grew up hearing about the importance of sunscreen but many still do not wear it. Soaking up a little sun is good for your overall well-being but too much of a good thing can be bad too. There are two types of harmful UV rays: UVA and UVB – both can cause damage to your skin.
UVA rays cause premature aging while UVB rays cause sunburns. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher is generally recommended for everyday usage.
Sunscreen should be included in everyone’s daily routine.
Here are 5 reasons why sunscreen is important and why you should apply it everyday.
Skin cancer prevention
The UV rays radiated from the sun are carcinogenic so sunscreens are essential to prevent the formation of skin cancers. There are three types of skin cancers, namely squamous cell skin cancer, basal cell skin cancer, and melanoma. Melanoma can be lethal if left untreated. Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancers affecting Malaysians so do make it a habit to wear sunscreen every day before going outdoors.
Prevent premature ageing
Another common condition caused by excessive exposure to the sun is premature aging. Overexposure to ultraviolet rays breaks down the skin’s elastin and collagen, thus causing the formation of wrinkles and fine lines. Regular sunscreen usage will ensure that you stay youthful and radiant.
Sunscreen is important for all skin types
Absolutely no one should forgo sunscreen application, regardless of skin colour or type. Yes, people with lighter complexions are more susceptible to skin cancers but this does not mean that people with darker complexions are immune. Sun damage is cumulative so it is important to take early preventative measures by wearing sunscreen daily.
Sunscreen evens your skin tone
In addition to causing wrinkles and fine lines, sun damage also causes discolouration and pigmentation to your skin. Sunscreen is an effective tool to help prevent discolouration and brown spots from forming. Spare your skin and start slathering on that sunscreen because discolouration is stubborn and difficult to get rid of. Besides, sunscreen does help to reduce the appearance of facial redness and blotches.
The ozone layer is depleting
The ozone layer acts as a natural sun shield for the earth as it absorbs harmful ultraviolet radiation. However, the ozone layer is slowly depleting so sunscreen should be used for added protection to combat destructive UV rays.
Frankly, the benefits of wearing sunscreen are endless. There is a wide variety of sunscreens out there for every skin type so get yourself some SPF today (and if you still don’t, what are you doing?).
Trust us, your skin will thank you in the long run.
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