Share:

When it comes to summertime skin care, wearing sunscreen is at the top of every dermatologist’s list of recommendations. However, CDC statistics suggest that fewer than 15% of men and 30% of women invest in this protection on a regular basis. If you’re among those who don’t apply sunscreen regularly, here are a few reasons why you should start wearing it every time you go outside and are exposed to UV rays.

5 Skin Care Problems Sunscreen Can Prevent

1. Skin Cancer

Exposure to both UVA and UVB rays can increase the development of free radicals within skin cells. These free radicals contribute to a significantly increased risk of many types of skin cancer—including melanoma. Since these cancers can be fatal, dermatologists urge all individuals to wear water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreens that offer an SPF of 30 or higher.

2. Sunburn

Overexposure to UV rays can lead to sunburn—an intense reddening of the skin that can be itchy and painful. Essentially, sunburns are a result of severe skin damage, which in some cases, can lead to blistering. To avoid this dermatological discomfort, it’s best to shield yourself with a strong sunscreen.

3. Wrinkles

skin careOver time, unprotected of the sun’s rays can speed up the cellular aging process of the skin. It may also reduce collagen and elastin, causing the tissue to lose elasticity. As a result, individuals who do not wear sunscreen regularly are more likely to develop premature signs of aging—such as wrinkles, fine lines, and visible veins.

4. Age Spots

Sun damage can darken patches of skin, causing what’s known as age spots. Also known as liver spots or solar lentigo, these blemishes do not fade with time and can require extensive treatments—such as laser therapy—to diminish. To avoid discoloration, it’s better to use sunscreen as prevention.

5. Acne

Many believe that exposure to UV light can help treat acne or that using sunscreen can clog pores. However, in reality, sun damage can increase the risk of acne—such as by reducing oils, promoting dryness, and causing inflammation. By using a non-comedogenic sunscreen and cleansing your face daily, you can prevent this common problem.

 

While wearing sunscreen is an essential part of skin care, it's also important to check in with a dermatologist. Anderson Skin and Cancer Clinic provides comprehensive dermatology services to patients in Anderson, SC, including in-depth skin cancer exams, mole removal, and treatments to minimize the signs of sun damage and aging. Providing comprehensive dermatology services in Anderson, SC, this clinic is equipped to perform in-depth skin cancer exams, remove moles, minimize signs of aging, and treat other forms of sun damage. Understanding all different types of skin, these professionals will also be able to introduce you to high-quality sunscreen products—including those designed for sensitive skin. To learn more about these services, visit this provider online. For skin care appointments, call (864) 224-7577.

tracking