As the weather gets warmer, it’s easy to be excited about the days you spend in the sun. The problem is that while you might enjoy a nice tan, you don’t get that “sun-kissed” look by staying unprotected. Instead, you often get sunburned. This condition affects about 79 percent of people throughout the season, and this is because only a few take the proper steps to protect themselves.

Sunblock is a product that creates a barrier between your skin and harmful UV rays. Without it, you’re exposed to damaging rays that could age you prematurely or even lead to skin cancer. In this blog, you will learn more about why you should never leave your house on sunny days without applying sunscreen.

How UV Rays Contribute to Aging

UV exposure is responsible for roughly 80 percent of your signs of aging, which accelerates the natural process. Exposure to UV levels above 2 triggers a process called “photoaging,” which leads to signs of aging like wrinkles, pigmentation, and elasticity loss. 

There are two types of UV rays that you need to be worried about: 

• UVA Rays: This longer wavelength laser penetrates deep into the skin, reaching the dermis. It’s one of the main culprits behind collagen loss and overall aging.
• UVB Rays: These short waves affect the skin’s surface and lead to what we know as “sunburn.” These are usually the main culprits behind skin cancer. 

Both types of UV rays can damage the structural proteins that keep the skin together. Even more, the damage accumulates with time, which means that you’ll see the worst of the results years later.

Why SPF Is a Must-Have

Plenty of skincare treatments and skin resurfacing treatments can reverse the signs of aging. However, the best way to keep the skin glowing is to prevent those issues from appearing altogether. Regular sunblock application can offer the following benefits: 

• Collagen Damage Prevention: UV exposure breaks down the collagen bonds that keep the skin firm and youthful. Over time, this can lead to issues like fine lines and skin sagging. Sunblock creates a protective layer against that. 
• Pigmentation Prevention: Pigmentation spots get worse with UV exposure. Sunscreen blocks the UV rays that lead to increased melanin production, keeping the skin tone even. 
• Skin Cancer: Aside from the cosmetic issues, sunblock prevents UV rays from entering the skin and mutating the cells. This prevents the formation of numerous types of skin cancer.

SPF comes in different ratings, with the most efficient being 30 and 50 SPF. For instance, SPF 30 blocks up to 97 percent of the UVB rays. And the higher the rating, the more protection you’ll get. 

It’s best to choose SPFs labeled as “broad spectrum,” as they offer both UVA and UVB protection. Products like Dr. Ostad’s “Sun Shade Clear” with SPF 40 offers UV protection while feeling lightweight on the skin. If you have pigmentation spots, the “Sun Shade Tint” could offer a smoother finish and help you forego foundation.

Sunblock After Beauty Procedures

Sunscreen is essential at any time of the day if you plan on going out in the sun. However, it’s even more important after getting a treatment such as a chemical peel or laser. After these treatments, your skin is still healing and is especially photosensitive. Therefore, UV rays can easily penetrate the skin, potentially causing irritation and further collagen damage. 

Sunblock creates a protective barrier over the weakened skin. This helps your skin recover while preventing complications such as redness or pigmentation. The latter is particularly important for people with darker skin tones, who are at risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Stay Protected Against UV Rays!

Skin health is something you should invest in at all times. Whether you just had a skin resurfacing treatment or you are planning an average day out, sunblock should always be a central part of your skincare. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Ariel Ostad today and start your skin protection journey!

For more information about sunblock and why it’s important, contact Dr. Ariel Ostad at 212-517-7900. We will offer all the guidance you need to make sure your skin stays protected. You can also fill out the provided online contact form, and we will get in touch with you shortly.