What is sunscreen and importance of sunscreen in our lives

Sunscreen is not just another skincare product. It is a mandatory step in our daily routine, essential for protecting our skin from the harmful effects of sunlight. Whether you're stepping out for a quick errand or spending long hours under the scorching sun, sunscreen should be a non-negotiable part of your skincare arsenal. Here are 10 things on why sunscreen is crucial for optimal skin protection and how to use it properly every day.

1. Shielding Against Harmful UV Rays:
The sun emits harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, including UVA and UVB, which penetrate deep into the skin, causing long-term damage like premature ageing, wrinkles, sunburns, and even skin cancer. Sunscreen forms a protective barrier on the skin, preventing these harmful rays from penetrating and causing harm.

2. Daily Application:
Sunscreen should be a part of your daily skincare routine, regardless of the season or weather conditions. Even on cloudy days, UV rays can penetrate through the clouds and affect your skin. Consistency is key when it comes to sun protection.

3. Choosing the Right SPF:
Ensure you select a sunscreen with a suitable Sun Protection Factor (SPF). SPF determines the product's effectiveness against UVB rays, which cause sunburn. For average daily use, an SPF of 30 or higher is recommended.

4. Proper Application:
To maximize the benefits of sunscreen, apply a generous amount evenly on all exposed areas of your skin at least 15 minutes before sun exposure. Don't forget often neglected areas like ears, neck, and back of your hands.

5. Reapplication:
Sunscreen effectiveness decreases over time, especially if you sweat or come into contact with water. Reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating to ensure continuous protection.

6. Children's Delicate Skin:
Children have more sensitive skin than adults, which makes sunscreen even more crucial for them. Shield their delicate skin by using sunscreens specifically formulated for children and choose higher SPFs for added protection.

7. Long-Term Benefits:
Consistent use of sunscreen can help maintain youthful and healthy-looking skin in the long run. It protects against the harmful effects of the sun, reducing the risk of premature ageing, dark spots, and uneven skin tone.

8. Beyond the Sun:
Sunscreen is not just for sunny days at the beach. UV rays are present year-round, even on cloudy days or indoors. Protect your skin daily, irrespective of the weather or your location.

9. Multipurpose Protection:
While other creams might offer moisturizing or nourishing benefits, sunscreen provides both skincare and sun protection in one product. This multipurpose benefit saves time and effort in applying multiple products.

10. Prevention instead of Correction:
Sunscreen acts as a proactive measure to prevent skin damage caused by the sun. It is a vital step in your skincare routine that helps reduce the need for corrective measures later, such as laser treatments or expensive skincare products.

In conclusion, sunscreen is a must-have product for optimal skin protection. Make it a habit to incorporate sunscreen with suitable SPF into your daily skincare regime. Protect yourself and your loved ones, especially children, from harmful UV rays. Remember, prevention is always better than correction when it comes to maintaining healthy and glowing skin.