Sunscreen: The Silent Guardian Against Skin Cancer
Written by Devanshi Sharma
I've always been interested in how everyday habits can influence our well-being. One such habit is applying sunscreen. Many people think of it as just another beauty product, but it's actually a crucial tool in the fight against skin cancer.
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the world. The main cause is Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. UV rays can damage the DNA in our skin cells, leading to mutations that can cause cancer. There are two main types of UV rays: UVA and UVB. UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin, causing extensive aging and wrinkles. UVB rays are the main cause of sunburn. Both types of rays can contribute to skin cancer.
This is where sunscreen is needed. Sunscreens are designed to protect our skin from these harmful rays. They contain ingredients that either absorb or reflect UV radiation. When used well, sunscreen can significantly reduce the risk of skin damage and, consequently, skin cancer.
There are different types of sunscreens: chemical and physical. Chemical sunscreens absorb UV radiation, while physical sunscreens, which contain helpful ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, reflect it. It's important to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which protects against both UVA and UVB rays, with an SPF of 30 or higher.
Applying sunscreen should be a daily habit, not just something to do at the beach. Even on cloudy days or during winter, UV rays can reach your skin. For effective protection, apply a generous amount of sunscreen to all exposed skin at least 15 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.
In conclusion, while sunscreen might seem like a small detail in your daily routine, it's a powerful tool in preventing skin cancer. By adding sunscreen into a daily skincare routine, you're not just protecting your skin from burns and aging; you're actively reducing your risk of developing skin cancer. So, next time when you're going out, don't forget to put on some sunscreen, your future self will appreciate it!
Written by Devanshi Sharma from MEDILOQUY