With the increasing threat of UV rays to skin health, sunscreen is no longer just for the summer but a crucial part of skincare that should not be ignored every single day, all year round. UV rays cause long-term and far-reaching damage to the skin. They not only accelerate aging, leading to wrinkles and age spots but can also trigger more severe skin issues such as sunburn, allergies, and even skin cancer. Therefore, mastering the correct sunscreen routine and selecting the right sunscreen products for yourself is essential for everyone.
Today, I will share a daily sunscreen guide to help you easily and effectively protect your skin from UV damage in your everyday life.
1. Why Is Sunscreen So Important?
Before we dive into how to protect ourselves from the sun, we need to understand the dangers of UV rays. UV rays are divided into three types: UVA, UVB, and UVC, with UVA and UVB being the most harmful to the skin.
- UVA: UVA rays penetrate the skin deeply, reaching the dermis. Prolonged exposure to UVA can cause skin aging, sagging, wrinkles, and age spots. It also damages collagen and elastin in the skin, leading to a loss of elasticity and visible signs of aging.
- UVB: UVB rays are the primary cause of sunburn, damaging the outer layer of the skin, causing redness, blisters, and even longer-term issues. Continuous exposure to UVB can increase the risk of skin cancer.
- UVC: Although UVC rays are the most intense, we are typically not directly exposed to them due to the Earth’s atmosphere, which blocks these rays.
Thus, whether it’s a sunny day or overcast, UV rays still pose a threat to your skin. Even in winter, UV rays do not disappear. They can still harm your skin through reflection or penetration of clouds. Sunscreen is not just about preventing immediate sunburn, but also about preventing long-term skin damage over time.
2. Basic Principles of Sunscreen
(1) Avoid Prolonged Sun Exposure
While sunlight is essential for our body to produce vitamin D, prolonged exposure can increase the risk of skin damage. During the peak hours of UV radiation (typically between 10 AM and 4 PM), try to avoid extended sun exposure. If you must go outside, make sure to wear sun-protective clothing or use an umbrella.
(2) Choose the Right Sunscreen
Sunscreen is your primary defense against UV rays. The market is full of sunscreen products, so how do you choose the right one for your skin type?
- SPF (Sun Protection Factor): SPF is a measure of sunscreen’s ability to protect the skin from UVB rays. The higher the SPF, the more protection it offers. For daily use, an SPF of 30-50 is recommended, while those exposed to the sun for extended periods (like outdoor athletes) may opt for SPF 50+.
- PA Rating: PA indicates the level of protection against UVA rays. The more plus signs after PA, the higher the level of protection. PA++ provides moderate protection, PA+++ indicates high protection, and PA++++ offers extremely high protection.
- Physical vs. Chemical Sunscreen: Physical sunscreen reflects UV rays using mineral ingredients (such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide), while chemical sunscreen absorbs UV rays through chemical compounds. Physical sunscreen is better for sensitive skin, while chemical sunscreen is often lighter and suitable for everyday wear.
(3) Reapply Sunscreen
Sunscreen does not last all day. Especially when sweating, swimming, wiping your face, or prolonged exposure to the sun, sunscreen effectiveness will diminish. Reapply sunscreen every two hours to maintain protection throughout the day.
3. How to Apply Sunscreen Properly
The effectiveness of sunscreen depends on how well you apply it. Many people neglect the correct techniques, which can reduce sunscreen’s effectiveness. Here’s the proper way to apply sunscreen:
- Cleanse Your Skin: Before applying sunscreen, thoroughly cleanse your face to remove excess oil and dirt. This ensures better adherence of the sunscreen to your skin.
- Use the Right Amount: For your face, use about the size of a 1-yuan coin for each application, and spread it evenly across your face and neck. For the body, use an adequate amount of sunscreen.
- Apply Evenly: Gently massage the sunscreen into your skin, ensuring it covers every part of your face, including often-missed areas such as your ears, neck, forehead, and around the eyes.
- Wait for Absorption: After applying sunscreen, wait for about 5-10 minutes to allow it to fully absorb before heading outdoors.
4. Additional Daily Sunscreen Tips
In addition to applying sunscreen, there are other ways to protect your skin from the sun in daily life:
(1) Wear Protective Clothing and Accessories
When spending extended periods outdoors, wearing appropriate clothing and accessories is another effective way to block UV rays. Choose loose, breathable sun-protective clothing to shield yourself. You can also wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV damage.
(2) Use Umbrellas and Hats
A wide-brimmed hat and an umbrella are practical tools for protecting yourself from the sun, especially during outdoor activities. A large-brimmed hat will protect your face from direct UV rays, while an umbrella offers comprehensive protection.
(3) Avoid Extended Exposure Near Windows
Many people think that sunscreen isn’t necessary indoors, but UV rays can penetrate windows and still reach your skin. If you’re sitting near a window for long periods, it’s a good idea to wear sunscreen. You could also consider using window films or sun-protective curtains to reduce direct exposure.
5. Sunscreen Myths
There are several common myths about sunscreen that can undermine its effectiveness or lead to skin issues. Here are a few myths to watch out for:
- Sunscreen is only needed when the sun is strong: UV rays don’t only harm your skin when the sun is shining brightly; they are present even on cloudy days or in the winter.
- Applying sunscreen once is enough: Sunscreen needs to be reapplied regularly, especially after sweating, swimming, or wiping your face.
- Only the face needs sunscreen: Sunscreen is not just for the face. Areas like the neck, ears, and hands are also vulnerable to UV damage.
6. Recommended Brands
When choosing sunscreen products, it’s essential to pick a brand that suits your skin type and needs. Below are two sunscreen brands I personally recommend, both of which offer excellent protection for various skin types.
- Anessa: As a leading sunscreen brand in Japan, Anessa sunscreens are well-known for their strong protective power and lightweight texture. They are ideal for various skin types, especially during the hot summer months.
- Lancôme: Lancôme’s sunscreens not only effectively block UV rays but also nourish the skin, offering additional protection and comfort. They are especially suitable for dry or sensitive skin types.
Sunscreen isn’t just for the summer; it’s an essential part of your daily skincare routine year-round. By following the correct sunscreen practices and choosing the right products, you can effectively protect your skin from UV damage, reducing the risk of aging and other skin problems. Whether you’re applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, or cultivating good sun habits, every step counts in protecting your skin’s health. So start making sunscreen a part of your daily routine today, and let’s all work together to ensure healthier, more beautiful skin every day!