Although it may seem like a simple action, choosing sunscreen is actually quite delicate; see how to choose the right product
Choosing the ideal sunscreen may seem simple, but it involves more than checking the sun protection factor (SPF). Aspects such as skin type, daily sun exposure and protection against UVA and UVB rays are decisive to guarantee results. Ignoring these factors can compromise protection, paving the way for damage such as premature aging and the emergence of diseases.
A study by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) found that regular use of sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher reduces the risk of squamous cell carcinoma skin cancer, one of the most common forms of the disease, by up to 50%. Furthermore, the research highlights the importance of protecting the skin against UVA rays, which have a direct impact on skin aging.
According to Dr. Fernanda Sanches, Cosmetology specialist and CEO of Cosmobeauty, understanding your skin type is essential to make a conscious choice. “Oily skin needs light protectors, while dry skin should rely on moisturizing formulas. When the sunscreen is not comfortable, many people end up neglecting to use it, which increases the risk of inadequate sun exposure”, he explains.
Advanced cosmetics and new needs
The development of new technologies in cosmetology has expanded the options for sunscreens. Today, there are products with additional benefits, such as oil control, stain prevention and protection against blue light emitted by electronic device screens.
Dr. Fernanda highlights that these innovations meet specific everyday demands, allowing greater adherence to continuous use. ‘For those who spend a lot of time in front of the computer, protection against blue light is an important differentiator. Sportspeople or people exposed to the sun for long periods can opt for sweat and water resistant formulas, without compromising protection”, he states.
Despite these innovations, the specialist reinforces that in regions with high solar incidence, such as Brazil, SPF 50 is the minimum factor recommended for daily use, preventing sun damage to the skin.
Practical criteria for choosing the protector
Assessing your skin type is the first step to identifying the ideal protector. People with acne-prone skin should prioritize oil-free or gel products, while sensitive skin benefits from hypoallergenic and fragrance-free protectors.
Another point is to adapt sunscreen to your routine. Those who spend more time indoors can choose lighter formulas, while those exposed to the sun for several hours will need to reapply the product frequently.
There is also the issue of the amount applied, which is often insufficient. To adequately protect your face, the ideal is to use the equivalent of a full teaspoon. Smaller quantities reduce the effectiveness of the product”, he warns.
Daily use and its accumulated benefits
Sun protection should be incorporated into your routine, regardless of the weather or activities. Even on cloudy days or in closed spaces, UVA rays can penetrate clouds and glass, causing silent damage to the skin that will only be noticed in the long term.
With habits such as skin care dominating social media, the use of skin protection has been growing, but it is still very neglected, especially among men. According to Dr. Fernandathis practice goes beyond aesthetics.
Sunscreen is one of the greatest allies for skin health. Prevents everything from burns and blemishes to more serious problems, such as skin cancer. Protecting yourself is a care that generates significant results in the future”, he states.
With access to advanced formulas and awareness of the selection criteria, it becomes easier to include this care in your daily routine, ensuring greater protection and health for your skin.
Source: Maxima
I am an experienced author and journalist with a passion for lifestyle journalism. I currently work for Buna Times, one of the leading news websites in the world. I specialize in writing stories about health, wellness, fashion, beauty, interior design, and more. My articles have been featured on major publications such as The Guardian and The Huffington Post.