Summer, is about to come and you might be confused about sunscreen? It’s estimated that sun exposure is subject to up to 80% of visible skin aging signs. But the adverse effects of the sun’s rays go past just how our skin looks. More importantly, it’s been confirmed that exposure to UV radiation raises the risk of developing skin cancer.

07 things everyone should know about sunscreen

All of this makes sunscreen a must-have for everybody. Thankfully, they are easy to get. You can even order them over the internet through various web retailers web sites. But there are still some things that individuals get wrong about sunscreen. According to a study, only 42 percent of individual understood what its main sun factor protection (SPF) actually means, and only 24 percent could understand the label and precisely how well a sunscreen could protect against sunburn. Here are seven important ideas that everyone should know:

• SPF or Sun Protection Factor – There is a number of SPFs, as low as 2 to high as 100, so it can be difficult to guess which is the most useful for you. It is advantageous to know what exactly SPF measures and which number gives the best protection against the sun rays because unprotected sun exposes can lead to early aging and perhaps skin cancer. The SPF number tells the shielding of UVB sun rays from the skin. UVB sun rays are the main accused of sunburns and sensitivity and irritation to the superficial layers of the dermis. Professionals agree that SPFs 30-50 is the ideal window to offer proper protection. A Higher SPF is only marginally more efficient than a lower SPF as the scale is not linear which can be deceiving to consumers. For instance, SPF 40 is not twice as effective as SPF 20 just because the number doubles. Here is a quick analysis of how much of a barrier is allowed by the common SPFs: SPF 15 blocks 93% of UVB rays while SPF 30 blocks 97% and SPF 50 blocks 98%. Everything over SPF 50 will not provide many benefits and is usually used as a marketing ploy to seem more useful since it is impossible for a sunscreen to give 100% protection.
• Physical or Chemical – There are two types of sunscreen available in the market, physical and chemical, that both have different benefits and detriments. Factors such as your skin’s sensitivity, the level of activity and personal choice will determine which type of sunscreen will serve best for you. Physical sunscreen stays subtly on the top of the skin and works to deflect sun rays away from the body. Since physical sunscreen does not deeply enter the skin it is great for individuals with sensitive skin types that cannot handle many ingredients that might cause irritation. A possibly negative phase is that many physical sunscreens are made of minerals that may leave a white chalky deposit. Also, it is easier to rub away particularly when in contact with water or sweat.A chemical sunscreen is an excellent option for stay-put protection. It enters and absorbs into the skin, making it water and sweat repellent. The formula allows for the easy glide-on application. The organic chemical compounds absorb sun rays and transfer them into heat in order to give protection. Chemical sunscreen can be bothersome for those with sensitive skin as it does go to the deep levels of the dermis; though, other calming agents are usually added to diminish annoyances. 07 things everyone should know about sunscreen
• Water Resistance – Take time to consider the amount of you sweat or amount water activities during a regular day when choosing your next sunscreen. No sunscreen is completely waterproof or sweat-proof though many chemical sunscreens are water-resistant and will only stay on for about 60-80 minutes of moisture. It is suggested to always remember to reapply after toweling off after swimming and to reapply sunscreen every 2 hours when out in uninterrupted sunlight. 07 things everyone should know about sunscreen
• Expiration Date –Most of the sunscreens expire within 2 years from the day of being produced. When buying a new sunscreen bottle check for an expiration date to be certain that the product is new and has not been sitting on the self for too long. Sunscreens with fresh ingredients will spoil.
• Sun Exposure – Sunscreen is still required in the months of winter even in areas where not much time is spent outside due to snow and extreme cold. Sun rays can still make their way through the natural obstructions like clouds and cause sunburns, so remaining caution on overcast days is a must. The time of year clearly influences the amount of sunscreen needed just by the amount of sun exposure you are receiving. There are always other choices available to shield away from the damaging sun rays such as hats, long sleeves, pants etc.
• Storage – Don’t wait for the bottle to get empty. Sunscreen can degrade itself and spoil in high heat so it is best to keep them stored in climate neutral areas, unlike the car or outside. If you see a change is texture, colour or smell it is time to buy a new sunscreen even it has not yet expired.
• Skin Type – There are 5 main skin types: normal, dry, oily, sensitive and combination. Many skincare brands will modify their sunscreen formulas to cater to a specific skin type. Do a little study and read all text best formula. Chemical sunscreens have the possibility of adding ingredients that can absorb deeply into the skin along with the vital ingredients of the sunscreen itself. 07 things everyone should know about sunscreen

The misunderstanding – Does sunscreen actually cause skin cancer?

Several years ago, Environmental Working Group raised a ruckus when it alleged that wearing sunscreen comprising retinyl palmitate, a retinoid, could stimulate rather than inhibit the growth of skin cancer. But according to the results of Skin Cancer Foundation, there’s no cause for alarm. The study that pushed the controversy was an unpublished, unreviewed study, unapproved. 07 things everyone should know about sunscreen

In simple words, the answer is No. You can use your sunscreen without any second thought.

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