The Importance of Applying Sunscreen Daily

Please, if you aren’t already doing so, apply sunscreen daily! Regardless of the weather or season, apply sunscreen daily! SPF is so important and must be added to your morning routine. It’s 2023 and if you’re skipping SPF… 

Babes, you’re doing everything wrong. 

What is UV Radiation?

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a type of electromagnetic radiation that is produced by the sun. There are three types of UV radiation.

UVA Radiation

UVA has the longest wavelength that penetrates deep into the skin—responsible for causing premature aging as well as the development of skin cancer. It is present year-round and penetrates through clouds and glass. 

UVB Radiation

UVB has a shorter wavelength than UVA and can cause sunburn and skin cancer. It is also responsible for stimulating the production of vitamin D in the skin, which is important for bone health. It is most intense during the summer and while it can be blocked by windows and clouds, it reflects off of surfaces such as water and snow.

UVC Radiation

UVC has the shortest wavelength and is the most harmful type of UV radiation. However, since it is absorbed by the Earth's ozone layer, it does not reach the surface of the Earth in significant amounts. (whew!)

Reasons Why Applying Sunscreen is Important

With what we know about ultraviolet radiation, here are reasons why applying sunscreen daily is important. 

1. Prevents Premature Aging—There is a link between premature aging and long exposure to UV rays. UV rays damage the skin's DNA, which leads to wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots. Sunscreen works by absorbing or reflecting the UV rays before they can penetrate the skin.
2. Protects Skin from UV Rays—Sunscreen typically contains either physical or chemical UV filters. Physical filters, such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, work by reflecting the UV rays. Chemical filters, such as avobenzone and octinoxate, work by absorbing the UV rays and converting them into heat, which is then released from the skin.
3. Lowers Risk of Sunburn—Wearing a generous amount of sunscreen and regularly reapplying after sun exposure minimizes the risk of sunburn. In fact, sunburns double the risk of contracting skin cancer. Therefore, applying sunscreen daily will greatly decrease the risk of skin cancer.
4. Even Skin Tone—UV radiation can stimulate the production of melanin, which is the pigment that gives our skin its color. Long exposure to UV rays can result in an overproduction of melanin, which can result in uneven pigmentation or dark spots on the skin. Hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and discoloration is prevented by applying sunscreen. 

Overall, applying sunscreen daily can help to keep your skin healthy! Dermatologists emphasize how much healthier the skin looks and feels when being consistent with applying your SPF. 

Get started on your journey to applying sunscreen every day with these products: