Reasons Sunscreen Is Important for the Skin

Written by East Carolina Dermatology and Skin Surgery, PLLC on October 18, 2022. Posted in Blog

The skin is the largest organ in the body and shields your body from the sun’s rays — your skin needs adequate protection, too.

Adding sunscreen to your daily routine can help you protect your skin. Sunscreen, also known as sunblock, protects the face and body by absorbing some of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. Generally, the higher the Sun Protection Factor (SPF), the better the sunscreen.

Your skin will benefit from the daily use of sunscreen in the following ways.

Promotes a More Even Skin Tone

The uneven pigmentation of the skin refers to the discoloration or darkening of parts of the skin inconsistently. Often referred to as sunspots, these discolored areas range in color from tan to brown. This skin condition can develop from prolonged exposure to the sun. Skin imperfections may appear on the face, hands, and other areas of the body that regularly receive sun exposure.

Sunscreen application prevents sun damage that causes discoloration and dark spots and leaves the wearer with a more even complexion.

Prevents Premature Aging

We all strive for healthy, radiant, and younger-looking skin. However, repeated exposure to the sun without adequate protection can damage your elastin, collagen, and skin cells. As a result, premature signs of aging — such as wrinkles, fine lines, and discoloration — appear.

Photoaging is the effect of premature aging on the skin caused by prolonged sun damage. Using sunscreen can help you prevent chronic sun damage.

A study found that sunscreen users under 55 are 24% less likely to develop aging signs than non-sunscreen users and occasional sunscreen users.

Lowers Skin Cancer Risk

Exposure to UV rays can cause your skin to lose its protective layer, leaving it vulnerable to a skin cancer known as Melanoma.

You must apply sunscreen daily for cumulative protection over months and years. Researchers have shown that daily use of SPF 15 sunscreen lowers the risk of developing Squamous cell carcinoma by 40% and Melanoma by 50%. You can use a higher SPF to get even more protection.

Wearing sunscreen can keep your skin looking young and healthy while protecting it from cancer.

Prevents Sunburn

Sunburns occur when the sun’s UV rays damage the DNA in the upper layer of skin cells. As a consequence, your cells try to fix the errors. If the skin cells experience too much UV exposure, the damage can be irreversible and the cells may die.

To undo the damage, blood vessels dilate to increase blood flow and bring immune cells to the area. Red skin and the painful sensitivity of freshly sunburned skin are the results of the extra fluid and the swelling the fluid causes.

Using sunscreen reduces your chances of sunburn by protecting your skin from harmful UV rays. Even on cool, cloudy days, always wear sunscreen.

Reduces Inflammation

Prolonged exposure to the sun and UV rays can cause severe redness and inflammation as part of skin damage.

Daily sunscreen application reduces the risk of swelling caused by harmful rays. If you are prone to redness and have sensitive skin, ensure you never miss your sunscreen application.

You can never be too young or old to care for your skin. Sunscreens, however, aren’t all created equal, and with so many options available, choosing a product can be challenging. Your local dermatologist can assist you with the selection of a product. On the other hand, if you have sun damage or skin spots that concern you, you should see a qualified professional as soon as possible.