Did you know we receive the most UV radiation between 10 am and 4 pm? Too much exposure can have dangerous effects if you’re not careful.
The sun emits UV rays, which we can also find in tanning beds and the like. These are invisible to the human eye, much like x-rays, gamma rays, and other types of light.
The invisible nature of UV rays might be why we often underestimate their dangerous potential. Their emitted radiation level is in the middle spectrum.
How do we protect ourselves? Wearing sunscreen is one solution. Keep on reading to learn why you should wear one every day.
Effects of UV Rays on Skin
Before we get to the benefits of sunscreen, let’s take a quick look at the harmful effects of UV rays. First, learn its three categories:
- UVA
- UVB
- UVC
UVA rays cause indirect damage to our cells’ DNA, causing our skin to age. Most of these reach the ground.
UVB causes sunburns and damages the DNA in our skin cells. The atmosphere shields us from most of these rays, but the small amount that makes it to the ground is still damaging.
UVC has the highest energy, but it doesn’t reach the ground. People may only have exposure to it in synthetic products, such as arc welding torches and UV sanitizing bulbs.
Benefits of Wearing Sunscreen
Now you’re familiar with what we’re fighting against, let’s see how to protect ourselves. You don’t have to avoid the sun – you can’t. You still get exposure to UV rays indoors or on cloudy days.
That’s why you can still get sunburn on cloudy days. Our best protection is applying sunscreen every day.
The sunscreen blocks and absorbs UV radiation. The physical particles in the formula reflect the rays, while the chemical particles absorb them and release the energy as heat. In turn, we enjoy the benefits below.
Less Risk for Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the most common form of this disease in the United States. Around one in five Americans will develop one of its many variations in their lifetime.
Both UVA and UVB contribute to the development of skin cancer. Even children are at risk. The higher the level of exposure before turning 18, the more likely they are to develop it.
You can lower your risks by wearing sunscreen, protecting your cells from damage.
Prevents Premature Skin Aging
Repeated exposure to UV rays causes photoaging. The radiation changes skin structures, resulting in premature aging.
Do you know that leathery look of the skin of those who tan often? That’s what happens with overexposure. The UV rays break down collagen, leading to wrinkles, sagging, and lines.
Helps Maintain an Even Skin Tone
When you wear sunscreen products, you also fight against discoloration. You get to enjoy healthy-looking skin, as well.
Wear Sunscreen Every Day
With these benefits, wearing sunscreen should be a part of your daily skincare routine. Apply more when expecting higher exposure, like going to the beach. You also have to reapply sunscreen now and then.
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