Exposure to the sun is an integral part of life in Israel. Whether it is a day at the beach, a short walk on the street or a drive in the car, the sun’s rays accompany us almost every moment. Alongside the well-known benefits such as the production of vitamin D and improvement of mood, the sun also has a less talked-about side.
UVA and UVB rays penetrate the skin and cause damage to collagen and elastin fibers, which are responsible for a youthful and flexible appearance. The result may be the appearance of wrinkles, spots, pigmentation and even more serious skin problems. Therefore, protection from the sun is not just an aesthetic matter but an integral part of maintaining health.
Awareness has increased, habits not really
Summer is already here, and awareness of sun damage is at its peak. Most of us already understand that sunscreen is a basic and essential product, one that you do not leave the house without.
But in practice, many still use it partially or incorrectly. The result is continuous exposure to UV rays, which may lead to premature skin aging, the appearance of spots and cumulative damage that is not always immediately visible.
Sunscreen is not just a cosmetic product but a real health measure. It serves as a first line of defense against sun damage, but to enjoy its benefits, it is important to use it correctly and consistently.
Applying too little and not understanding why it does not work
One of the most common mistakes is using too small an amount of sunscreen. A thin application does not provide the level of protection indicated on the packaging.
To achieve effective protection, it is recommended to use a generous amount of about half a teaspoon for the face and neck. Less than that is simply not enough.
Many focus mainly on the face and forget equally important areas. The ears, neck, hairline and lips are areas that are particularly exposed to the sun.
It is precisely there that early signs of aging often appear, such as fine lines, spots and loss of elasticity. Full protection should include all exposed areas and not just the face.
Another very common mistake is applying sunscreen once in the morning and assuming it is enough for the whole day.
In practice, the protection decreases over time, especially in conditions of heat, sweat and humidity. Therefore, it is important to reapply every two to three hours, especially when outdoors.
Makeup with SPF is not a substitute
Many women rely on foundation that contains SPF, but it is important to understand that it is only an addition and not a substitute for sunscreen.
The amount applied from makeup is not enough to reach the required level of protection. Therefore, even if using makeup products with SPF, it is necessary to use a separate sunscreen.
One of the big mistakes is thinking that sun protection is needed only on hot days or during the summer. UVA rays, which are responsible for skin aging, are active all year round, even when the sky is cloudy and even when you do not feel heat. Therefore, using sunscreen should be a fixed part of the routine, 365 days a year.
The main message is simple. Sunscreen is the foundation of a proper and healthy skincare routine. Proper and consistent use can help prevent spots, wrinkles and sun damage, and maintain even, healthy and radiant skin over time. In contrast, partial or inaccurate use may completely cancel the effect and leave the skin exposed to damage.
Source:
www.jpost.com
