It’s common knowledge that failing to apply sunscreen, especially during summer months, can result in serious consequences. Many people still choose to avoid the hassle regardless, or they simply don’t know how just how often they should be wearing it. Preventing sunburn is just one of several reasons you should wear sunscreen, so pay attention! A little can go a long way.
- Skin Cancer Prevention - You don’t need to be sunburnt to see the consequences of skin cancer down the road. The sun emits two forms of ultraviolet rays, UVA and UVB, which trigger harmful changes in your skin. While UVA rays are more common, accounting for 95% of the rays that reach Earth, UVB can also cause skin damage. Common skin cancers caused by these rays include basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Regardless of your skin color or how well your skin handles the sun, the Skin Cancer Foundation encourages everyone to wear sunscreen year round.
- Premature Aging Prevention – We’re sure that everyone wishes they had a few less wrinkles. Wearing sunscreen can assist in preventing premature aging if used on a regular basis. According to a 2013 study, researchers found that over 4.5 years, there was 24 percent less skin aging in the group that used sunscreen daily versus the group using sunscreen at their own discretion. Degrees of aging were determined by the lines and coarseness of the skin. In addition, sunscreen helps to prevent age spots!
- Sunburn Prevention – Prolonged exposure to UV rays can result in skin reddening, swelling, peeling, and widespread damage to skin cells. Sunburns severe enough to cause blistering can cause permanent damage that increases your risk for skin cancer. Sunscreen prevents sunburn and the long-term side effects.
To see the effects from sunscreen, you must use it consistently and ensure that it offers both broad-spectrum UV coverage and a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. Take note of the product’s label to find out how often you should reapply. It’s never too late to reap the benefits of regular sunscreen use, so find your match and start today!