Why SPF is the Most Important Tool in Your Kit

Everyone knows the importance of wearing SPF (Sun Protection Factor) on a weeklong holiday to Spain (or the occasional day above 25°c in the UK) to avoid sunburn. However, sun cream should really be used every day as a preventative health measure. SPF is often hidden by cosmetic companies in your aftershave balms and moisturisers to protect your skin from sun damage daily.   

 1.     UV rays affect your skin 365 days a year   

 Applying SPF should be part of your daily routine, just like brushing your teeth or changing your undies! 80% of UV rays will pass through clouds and cause sun damage and even in winter months, snow can reflect 80% of UV rays – the sun takes no prisoners!   

 2.     It’s the ultimate protection against skin cancer   

 As the Earth’s ozone layer is decreasing, our risk of skin damage, such as cancer, is increasing. Melanoma skin cancer is the 5th most common cancer in the UK with over 15,000 people diagnosed every year. According to Cancer Research UK, 1 in 36 UK males will be diagnosed with Melanoma skin cancer in their lifetime. Doctors recommend SPF no lower than 30 to use every day to block UV rays and protect your skin barrier properly.   

 3.     It helps you age like a fine wine*   

 Sun damage doesn’t always mean cancer. UV rays also cause photoaging of the skin. This is when the breakdown of collagen leads to the skin becoming discoloured, thick, and leathery. Those who regularly apply SPF are 24% less likely to develop sagging skin and wrinkles than those who don’t.   

 4.     It also maintains an even skin tone   

 Skin scarring and hyperpigmentation are common in individuals that work outside in the sunlight. Adult acne and spots can scar easily when exposed to UV rays leaving an uneven skin tone. Hyperpigmentation is caused by changes in the production of melanin and can result in darker patches on the surface of the skin.   

 5.     It prevents inflammation and sun sensitivity   

 Healthy skin is vital for your overall health. UV rays can damage the DNA of our immune-protecting cells which can cause inflammation and even deeper damage within the body. Suppressing these cells can lower your body’s ability to protect you from many illnesses. Sun sensitive conditions, such as Rosacea and Lupus, can become irritated by sunlight exposure, causing redness and severe burning.   By applying SPF every morning, you are protecting yourself for the day ahead. With all these pro’s and no con’s, what’s stopping you?   

 Sources: 

• https://ehe.health/blog/always-wear-sunscreen/  
• https://www.royalmarsden.nhs.uk/information-gps/gp-resources/skin-cancer/skin-cancer-incidence-and-risk-factors#:~:text=Around%2015%2C400%20people%20are%20diagnosed,common%20cancer%20in%20the%20UK .
• https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/health-professional/cancer-statistics/statistics-by-cancer-type/melanoma-skin-cancer#:~:text=1%20in%2036%20UK%20males,in%20the%20UK%20are%20preventable. 
• https://www.beautybay.com/edited/reasons-to-use-spf/ 
• https://www.dermstore.com/blog/why-wear-sunscreen/    

Written by: Bridey Aris