Sunscreen is also referred to as sunblock and it can be in the form of a spray, gel, lotion, stick, foam, or any other product that can absorb or reflect UV radiation away from your skin. By doing so, it shields the skin from conditions such as sunburn. Furthermore, it is good for preventing sagging skin, dark spots, and wrinkles.
This is not a new invention as it was also used in early civilization. For example, the ancient Egyptians were using extracts of rice, lupine plants, and Jasmine while the ancient Greeks used oil to protect their skin. Amazingly, these products are still being used in the manufacturing of skincare products today. Another important component that has been used in the industry for thousands of years is Zinc Oxide Paste.
During the 2nd world war, soldiers in the pacific tropics started realizing the effects of being exposed too much to the sun. This is what led to the first development of the modern sunscreens that are widely used by Benjamin Green in 1944. However, today there are so many sunscreen products available in the market. But we encourage people to use Vegan or Korean products since they are engineered to serve your skin health for the long-term.
Types of sunscreen
Sunscreens are classified into two, i.e. Physical sunscreens and chemical sunscreens. These two types use different mechanisms when it comes to filtering the UV rays or shielding the skin from damage.
Physical sunscreen
Physical sunscreen can also be referred to as a mineral screen and it sits on the surface of your skin. This allows it to act as a physical blocker by scattering and deflecting UV rays away from the skin. Thanks to their reflective properties, physical sunscreens act as many tiny mirrors deflecting away from the harmful rays. Mineral sunscreens are good at protecting the skin from both UVB and UVA rays.
Another advantage of using physical sunscreens is that they become effective immediately when applied because they create a physical barrier. Mineral sunscreen is visible on the skin because they tend to have a whitish cast. Besides, you can rinse or rub off mineral sunscreens easily since the sit on the skin's surface. This is why it is necessary to reapply physical sunscreen frequently.
Also, you should apply it adequately for you to get maximum protection. However, you should avoid using powder or spray formulations because the mineral nanoparticles should never be inhaled. This way you will be minimizing your lung exposure.
Chemical sunscreens
Unlike physical sunscreens that sit on the skin surface, Chemical sunscreens are absorbed deeper into the skin. They change UV rays into heat after absorbing them and then they release that heat. However, you should note that this formula may not protect your skin from UVA rays.
UVA rays can still cause damage to the deeper layers of the skin. Planning is required if you want to use chemical sunscreens because they take at least 20 minutes before they become fully effective. Also, you will need to reapply this sunscreen when you are exposed to the direct sunlight because this is when the chemicals are used up quickly.
What is the importance of using sunscreen?
The main importance of using sunscreen is that it shields your skin against harmful sun rays. The harmful ultraviolet rays come in two forms, i.e. UVA and UVB. Besides, the UVA rays are commonly associated with age spots, wrinkles, and fine lines that make the skin look old. On the other hand, the UVB lights are mostly associated with sunburns. Sunscreen helps to maintain healthy skin and it is very powerful especially when used together with other protections.
When should I use sunscreen?
You should wear sunscreen every time you plan on going out. Even if the weather is cloudy, you still need to wear sunscreen because some UV rays can penetrate through the clouds. For chemical sunscreens, apply at least 20 minutes before leaving the house to allow absorption to take place.
Benefits of using sunscreen
- Applying it regularly reduces the chances for you to develop cancer in your adulthood.
- Helps the skin to maintain an even tone
- It protects the skin against sunburn
- Sunscreen reduces the appearance of dark spots, discolorations, wrinkles, leathery skin and sun damage
- It can make you keep looking young
- Sunscreen works for all skin types
- 7 Since the Ozone layer is depleting, your skin needs sunscreen protection now more than ever
What sunscreen should I use?
You need to use a sunscreen that can protect your skin from aging, sunburn, and skin cancer. Also, one that does not contain harmful additives so that your skin can remain healthy for the long-term. You can check our best selected and curated Korean sunscreen collection that is free from harmful additives and is widely known across the world.
