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Sunscreen Application and Selection

The sun releases several kinds of radiation each with a wavelength band that is specified. As soon as ultraviolet radiations reach the skin it is readily absorbed by the skin molecules that interact more intensely with a specific wavelength. This act may result in destructing the skin proteins, lipids and cellular DNA ultimately leading to skin cancer.

Ultraviolet radiation is broken down into three types of wavelengths:

• UV-A: This is the longest wavelength, which is not absorbed by the ozone. It deeply penetrates the skin.
• UV-B: It is blocked partly by the ozone layer and is responsible for sunburns.
• UV-C: This is completely absorbed by the atmosphere; it can only be encountered from artificial radiation sources.

Sunscreen
Sunscreens can absorb these harmful rays before they can intermingle with the skin. A sunscreen product will in general contain a combination of chemical and moisturizing ingredients. Certain ingredients are largely better in blocking UVB while others block UVA. Chemical sunscreen ingredients PABA esters

• Cinnamates
• para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA)
• benzophenes
• salicylates
• octocrylene and
• dibenzoyl-methane.

Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are blockers and board spectrum, which block both UVB and UVA.

What is SPF?
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. It is simply a measure of guard from UVB, which ranges from 1 to 45 or above. SPF of 15 will filter 92 percent of the UVB. On the other hand, a sunscreen product having an SPF of 15 will defer the beginning of sunburn in an individual who would burn in 10 minutes to burn in 150 minutes. The SPF 15 sunscreen can allow an individual to stay in the sun 15 times longer.

Sunscreen Application and Selection:

• Read the label before buying a sunscreen product and be sure that it will filter and absorb both UVA and UVB.
• Also, check the products level of protection, SPF 15 or 30 depending on how long you generally stay outdoors.
• Keep in mind that low-priced brands are just as effective as the expensive brands.
• Check the expiration date, as an expired product will lose its effectiveness it will not perform its role. This could lead to serious sunburn.
• Select a product that is labeled board spectrum to give your skin complete protection from UVB, UVA and UVC.
• The light-skinned individual needs higher SPF, as the lighter skin will burn more quickly than darker skin.
• Check the products formulation. It must be non-allergenic so it is harmless to use on sensitive skin and on the face. It is nonacnegenic so as not to block the pores.
• Be firm on a product that is PABA free, including no irritating chemicals and is harmless to use on the face.
• A waterproof sunscreen is best. Read the label and ensure that aside from sun protection it also contains essential skin moisturizers to nourish your skin at the same time.
• Prior to applying a sunscreen, the skin should be clean and dry so that it can be well absorbed.
• Apply a moderate amount of sunscreen all over the body and pay special attention to the face, nose, ears, cheeks and scalp, as these are areas that are prone to sunburn.
• Reapply often when perspiring heavily or after swimming. It is best to apply it fifteen minutes before you go out in the sun.
• There is still a need for sunscreen application even on cloudy days.