Everyone’s skin care routine is different. Some people choose ingredients that are specific to their goals, while others prefer to keep it simple. Regardless of your product lineup, there’s one step that should be regularly occurring: applying sunscreen.
We'll admit, sun care can be very confusing in terms of what to use and how to apply. Ever wondered how sunscreen even works? Not sure how much to apply? Or a very important question for those chasing a bronzy glow: does sunscreen prevent tanning and ageing? Well, we’ve consulted the professionals to get you those answers and more so that you can grasp this crucial step in your routine. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about sunscreen and wrinkles.
Does Sunscreen Prevent Tanning?
Unfortunately, this answer isn’t so simple. Technically, you may still tan with sunscreen on. How tan, but, depends on many things like: how easily you tan, what level of SPF you’re wearing, what the UV index is on the time of sun exposure, and so forth.
“SPF refers to ‘sun protection factor’ and is a measure of the quantity of sun radiation required to produce a burn on protected skin as opposed to the amount required to produce a burn on unprotected skin”, so, it is still possible to tan or burn with sunscreen on, but it takes a large dose of UV radiation to do so.”
Here’s the issue: Most people aren't carrying the correct amount of sunscreen, or reapplying often sufficient to achieve the SPF level stand on their bottle. So yes-some UV rays will still get through, and if you tan easily, you could still get a tan even with sunscreen on.
Does Wearing Sunscreen Prevent Aging?
One way to prevent ageing and other symptoms of photoaging- when your skin prematurely ages due to increased sun exposure-is to wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen that has a sun protection factor SPF of 30 or higher. Not only can photoaging cause wrinkles, however it could also increase the creation of sunspots, reduce the elasticity of your skin, and run capillaries around the nose.
Both mineral and chemical sunscreens can prevent signs and symptoms of photoaging from forming and taking a toll on your skin through their sun-blocking techniques. Mineral sunscreens will reflect harsh ultraviolet (UV) rays and chemical sunscreens will soak up those rays and transform them to heat through a chemical reaction.
How Does Sunscreen Work?
If you’ve ever wondered, ‘how does sunscreen work?’ “UV rays signal the skin to boom transcription of the tyrosinase gene.” Tyrosinase is responsible for the first step in melanin development.
“Sunscreen works by means of reducing and limiting the signal to reduce tyrosinase production”. Sunscreen increases the amount of UV radiation that has to create sun damage on the skin.
However, there may be a difference between the mechanisms behind mineral and chemical formulas. “Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing UV radiation and catalysing a chemical reaction that transforms these rays into heat, which is then released from the skin.
On the other side, mineral sunscreens create a sun-blocking barrier. “Physical sunscreen physically blocks UV radiation from achieving the skin by using deflecting UV rays.
At the moment, zinc oxide, titanium dioxide (common ingredients in mineral SPF) are the only two ingredients the Environmental Working Group has deemed safe for use and effective at protecting the skin from UV damage.
How To Choose The Right Sunscreen To Prevent Tanning and Aging
So, does sunscreen reduce ageing? The answer is yes. However, whether your sunscreen minimises signs and symptoms of ageing or no longer will significantly rely on the type of sunscreen you’re wearing since not all sunblock's protect against UV-A rays, the UVs responsible for ageing skin.
That said, it’s best to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that's 30 SPF or higher that not only prevents sunburns but is likewise better for the overall longevity of your skin. In addition to choosing a broad-spectrum sunscreen, you should also look beyond the SPF rating and read the label of the product. This is because mineral and chemical sunscreens are not created equal, plus the latter could have ingredients that are harmful to your body. Here are a few key differences:
- Chemical sunscreens, which can be the most common type of sunscreen, incorporate several elements that can harm your overall health since they are absorbed into the skin to prevent sun damage. This includes ingredients, such as oxybenzone, and avobenzone-just to name a few. While the use of these ingredients is approved by the FDA the organisation is evaluating the effectiveness and safety of ingredients found in chemical sunscreens.
- Mineral sunscreens contain only two main ingredients-zinc oxide deemed safe and effective by the FDA. This type of sunscreen works by way of performing as a mirror that reflects UV rays rather than absorbing them.
Why it’s Important To Wear Sunscreen Every Day
You might be wondering “is that necessary?” or “does wearing sunscreen every day prevent wrinkles?”, and the answer to both the ones questions is yes. While wearing sunscreen every day can prevent wrinkles, it can also lessen your risk of skin cancer.
Keep Your Skin Looking Youthful
Keeping your skin looking youthful doesn’t have to be hard work. With the right sunscreen and skin care products, your skin can maintain a vibrant and healthy appearance for a long time. Remember, SPF doesn’t prevent ageing, so search for a broad-spectrum screen that you could wear daily.
FAQ's
Q. What are sunscreen's advantages?
Using sunscreen is one of the greatest and simplest ways to protect the health and appearance of your skin at any age. Sunscreen use on a regular basis can help prevent skin cancer, sunburns, and early aging. Though many sunscreen rather often sun protection creams/gels contain nasty ingredients making them unfit for human use as well as environment unsafe.
Q. Does sunscreen help with tan removal?
Yes, sunscreen is essential for preventing pigmentation, but it alone won't help you get rid of it. Medications and certain skincare products must be used according to your skin type. Check claims before buying the product.
Q. Is sunscreen making your skin glow?
All of the skin proteins, such as collagen, keratin, and elastin, that are essential for establishing and maintaining healthy skin are shielded by sunscreen. Your skin's brightness and smoothness are influenced by these proteins. Hence sunscreen may benefit in restoring glow.
Q. On acne, may I put sunscreen?
Yes! Sunscreen can benefit your skin in addition to shielding it from UV radiation, and free radicals, which are linked to worsening acne, and aging indications. However make sure to use non- comedogenic sunscreen only.