March is coming to an end, and the weather is trying to get rid of the low temperatures and cold, and very soon the sun will become even brighter and warmer. In a recent interview, toxicologist, candidate of medical sciences Mikhail Kutushov pointed out that we should use sunscreen products all year round, not just before a summer trip to the beach.
"Many dermatologists tend to agree that hot weather isn't the only reason to start using sunscreen. The sun is always shining, which means you need to protect your skin all year round. It is important to use the creams and ointments regularly to create a barrier against the harmful effects of UV rays, which cause sunburn and premature aging and increase the risk of skin cancer. Regular use of sunscreen products reduces the risk of pigmentation, age spots and other skin damage.", notes the expert.
He also recommended using sunscreen after aggressive cosmetic procedures, such as laser skin resurfacing or peels.
What are sunscreens and what are they for?
Dinara Makhtumkulieva, cosmetologist and esthetician from the CIDC chain of clinics, explained that these are special components that protect the skin from the harmful effects of UVA and UVB radiation. They act as a layer that reflects UVA and UVB radiation from the skin.
"Sunscreen products are recommended to be applied before every step out of the house. They are selected depending on the phototype, age and amount of sunlight during the specific period of the year. People with fair skin need more protection than those with dark skin. Also, for people under 35, the skin is less sensitive to UV rays than the skin of adults. That's why it's important after the age of 35 to use sunscreen thoroughly and regularly. In summer, the UV index is higher than in autumn or winter, so the sun protection factor in the product should be at least 30. For spring, SPF 20 is enough," Dinara Makhtumkulieva emphasizes, adding that the product should be applied to the face and hands twenty minutes before leaving the house.
Elena Masalitina, an expert in cosmetic formulas and founder of the botanical cosmetics brand Masaliti, highlighted another insidious feature of ultraviolet rays: they can penetrate through clouds, car windows or flat surfaces. So even if it's cloudy and cool outside, that doesn't mean your skin doesn't need protection.
"Sunscreen products always have the abbreviation SPF and numbers. Let's break them down even further:
- SPF 10 is the weakest protection, blocking less than 90% of UV rays;
- SPF 15 blocks 93% of UV rays, which is optimal for the city and metropolis;
- SPF 30 blocks 97% of UV rays, suitable for sunbathing and long walks;
- SPF 50 and higher – blocks 98% of UV rays, ideal for people with sensitive skin, children and the elderly.,
summarized the expert.