Why do we have to wear sunscreen?

The majority of us consider the Sun to be a friend. In addition to keeping us warm and promoting plant growth, who doesn't enjoy lounging on the beach in the sun? However, despite all of its benefits, excessive exposure to the sun can be dangerous. That is why sunscreen was created. Sunscreen's main function is to protect the body from the Sun's UV rays, which can cause sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer. These rays are divided by their various wave lengths into categories like UVA and UVB, which have a range of effects on the skin as a result of the chromophores, the components of molecules that give them color, absorption patterns. Hemoglobin, which is present in our red blood cells, and melanin, which is responsible for the pigment in our skin, are the two main chromophores. We are aware that UVB rays damage the skin. Less is known about the function of UVA rays, however they appear to affect our tan reaction, carcinogenesis, and aging. Consequently, how can sunscreen shield us from harmful rays? Sunscreens come in two primary categories: chemical and physical blockers. Physical blockers that operate as a physical barrier, such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, reflect the sun's rays. You've probably seen lifeguards with white patches covering their noses, so you know what this looks like. The main ingredients of diaper creams, which also aim to form a physical barrier, are the same. They have historically been difficult to apply and prominently visible on the skin, but new formulations have made these problems less of a concern. Contrarily, chemical blockers take the Sun's rays in. Due to a decline in UV absorption, they decay more quickly than physical sunscreens. When applied to the skin, these are typically more transparent, although some of the ingredients can cause allergic reactions in some people. All sunscreens are put through testing to ascertain their SPF, or sunburn protection factor, regardless of the type. This essentially measures the amount of UVB protection the sunscreen will offer before you start to burn. However, even if you don't get sunburned, you should still wear sunscreen because, unless you live in a cave, you are not immune to the sun's effects. While those with darker skin and those who tan readily do have higher natural protection against sunburns, they are nonetheless at risk from UVA rays.Contrarily, young children under the age of six months should not spend much time in the sun because their skin is more likely to absorb any sunscreen that is applied and their protective systems are not fully developed. All three kinds of skin cancer—basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma—can be thwarted by using sunscreen. Every day, the DNA in your cells experiences mutations and errors that are often corrected by internal machinery. However, UV rays from the Sun can cause changes that the cell may be unable to correct, which can result in uncontrolled growth and ultimately skin cancer.The most terrifying aspect of this is that, most of the time, you won't even notice it happening until it's too late. If these specific health dangers aren't enough to persuade you to use sunscreen, there are also aesthetic benefits. Sun damage is the main factor in early aging, along with cigarette smoking. Chronic sun exposure causes photoaging, which causes the skin to lose its suppleness and appear sagging. Observe the difference in this truck driver's left side, which was frequently exposed to the sun. This is a crucial idea. Car windows block UVB, which causes burns, but not UVA, which causes aging.Daily use of sunscreen is advised, but you should take extra precautions before prolonged exposure to the sun, when at the beach, or when in areas with snow, as the reflection of water and ice magnifies the sun's rays. For these situations, apply a small amount (15–30 minutes before leaving) and again right afterwards after leaving the house. You should then reapply it every two to three hours, especially after swimming or perspiring. In any other case, you should wear protective clothes with a UPF rating for ultraviolet protection. Avoid the sun from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and stay in covered areas like those beneath trees or an umbrella. And what sort of sunscreen is the best? Everyone will have a preference, but look for the following features: water resistance, wide spectral, and an SPF of at least 30. For daily use, a mild moisturizer with SPF 30 should work well. If you choose to use a spray, pay attention. They are like using a spray can rather than a paintbrush to paint a wall in that it takes numerous coats to effectively cover your skin. Enjoy the sun, but do it while wearing sunscreen.