Sunscreen is a product that comes in different forms, it can be in gel, lotion, foam or spray that is also known as a sunblock. It is said that approximately 80 percent of the sun/ultraviolet rays passes through the thickness of the clouds to the earth. With this in mind, one must protect the skin from getting into direct contact with the sun by using a good quality sunscreen.
This product prevents one from getting skin diseases like skin cancer which is said to be one of the most common forms of cancer in America, and by using sunscreen, a person reduces the chances of getting skin cancer by half. Sunscreen also prevents premature aging of the skin by preventing sagging and early occurrence of wrinkles. This means it promotes and maintains an even skin tone by preventing dark spots and discoloration of the skin that can be caused by sun-damage. However, one is advised to apply sunscreen long before heading out for it to dry up.
How Sunscreen Works
The most important part of a sunscreen is the active ingredients. The active ingredients have two categories; UV reflector and UV absorber. With the UV absorber, its function is to absorb UV radiation by lowering the heat from the sun to the skin through the organic chemicals present in it. This brings out the need of buying sunscreen with a 'broad spectrum' label on it that has a maximum protection factor from the wavelengths of the sun.
On the other hand, the UV reflector, which is made of oxides like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, also absorbs and then scatters the UV radiation making it quickly leave the surface of the skin. The other part of sunscreen is normally the part that helps sunscreens last longer on the shelves. It also applies when bought to serve one for longer because of the presence of lotion, gel or foam content. At the same time, it makes them water resistant and have a pleasant smell making it absorbent to the skin.
Best Sunscreen During Swimming or Exercising
The current market is flooded with a number of sunscreens, but that does not mean that all of those are effective. A few of the best quality sunscreen suitable for swimmers are;
- Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence Sunscreen SPF 50 - This is specifically for the face. It contains ingredients that keep the skin hydrated and has both UVA and UVB protection. One can stay with it for 80 minutes and still feel comfortable because it is lightweight on the skin too.
- La Roche-Posay Cooling Water Sunscreen Lotion SPF 60 - This is the best for the body while swimming. It transforms to a water like texture on the skin.
- Skinnies Sungel - It is said that one should apply sunscreen before heading out, however this sunscreen takes less than 2 minutes to dry up on the skin. This is because it has no water content in it and is very concentrated. You only need to use a little of it, making it last longer.
Most Popular Sunscreens
According to a research carried out by the strategic based in New York, there are 10 most popular sunscreens globally which does not mean that the rest are less effective for use. Some of the most popular include:
- Ultra Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 55 - Well-known dermatologists in the world recommend this to patients because it can be used by babies as young as 6 months or older. This is because the minerals in it stay on the surface of the skin rather than penetrating the skin causing irritation. It is a liquid-like sunscreen in most cases. It’s also in spray and stick form.
- ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica Ultralight Sunscreen SPF 50+ - Using this suncreen is good because it contains Vitamin E and some repair enzymes. This means sun damage can actually be repaired. It can be used all over the body, but because of its high price, some patients prefer using it on the face only.