Few topics create as much confusion, misunderstanding and downright misinformation as when it comes to the truth about sunscreen and aging skin. Sunscreen is often touted as a miracle solution to preventing skin aging, yet many products available are lacking when it comes to efficacy and safety.
Sunscreen Basics
To understand the truth about sunscreen and aging skin, it’s important to briefly cover the basics. Sunscreen is used to protect skin from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. UV rays are present year-round and are found in two types: UVA and UVB. UVA rays are longer-wavelength rays that go deeper into the skin, causing wrinkles and age spots, while UVB rays typically create sunburns. Sunscreen works by blocking those UV rays from penetrating the skin, thus reducing their potential to cause skin damage.
Sunscreen Ratings
When shopping for sunscreen, it’s important to pay attention to the label and look for the sun protection factor (SPF) rating. This number on the sunscreen label lets you know how long you can stay in the sun without burning. For example, an SPF 15 rating indicates 15 times the protection of an unprotected skin. However, it’s important to understand that any rating under SPF 30 offers minimal protection.
This number on the sunscreen label lets you know how long you can stay in the sun without burning.
Surprising Truths About Sunscreen
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s move on to some of the surprising truths about sunscreen and its ability to prevent skin aging:
1. Sunscreen won’t stop all skin-aging – Sunscreens are not a miracle solution for preventing skin aging. While SPF 30 offers good protection from UVB rays, it lacks any protection from harmful UVA rays, which are responsible for premature wrinkles and age spots.
2. Some sunscreens don’t actually offer protection – Unfortunately, not all sunscreens are created equal. Some contain chemical filters that are not effective against UVA rays and can even be irritation when applied to the skin.
3. Suntan lotion is not sunscreen – Many people confuse suntan lotion with sunscreen. While suntan lotion may give the illusion of a “healthy-looking” tan, it actually contains no protection from UV rays, thereby increasing the potential for skin damage.
The Best Way to Protect Skin from Aging
Sunscreen is an important part of any skin protection regimen, but it is not the only option. In addition to using a broad-spectrum sunscreen, you should also cover up when outdoors with long sleeves and a hat, and consider wearing sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV rays. Unfortunately, no matter how diligent you may be with your sun protection, you are still vulnerable to UV damage, so it is important to stay aware of your skin protection options.
Perhaps one of the best ways to protect skin from aging is to use common sense. Stay out of the sun during peak hours and don’t forget to re-apply your sunscreen several times throughout the day, even when the weather is cloudy. Your skin will thank you for it in the long run!
