What factors are important when choosing sunscreen?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

I have gone through the details provided from your end (attachments removed to protect patient identity). Sunscreens indeed play a crucial role in protecting the skin from sun damage and harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Selecting the appropriate sunscreen is imperative, depending on one's skin type, which may include dry skin, oily skin, combination skin, sensitive skin, and normal skin. Various formulations of sunscreens are available, ranging from creams to lotions to gels to silicone gels, and more.

Understanding the correct sunscreen, the appropriate sun protection factor (SPF), and the proper application method are essential for effective skin protection. Sun damage is a significant concern, particularly with prolonged exposure to UV radiation, increasing the risk of skin cancers.

For most skin types, a silicone gel-based or lotion-based sunscreen is preferable, to be reapplied every two to three hours between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. During these hours, UV radiation is most intense, with UVA and UVB radiation being highly penetrating and capable of inducing changes in skin cells that may lead to skin cancers. Sunscreen application is necessary even during winter and rainy seasons when UV radiation is present throughout all seasons. Additionally, it is important to note that while UVC radiation is the least penetrating, prolonged exposure, such as from artificial lights like tube lights, LED lights, laptop screens, and mobile phone screens, can also contribute to sun damage and potentially skin cancers. Using UV filters on electronic devices or applying sunscreen to facial and body skin can mitigate these risks.

Sunscreen should be applied at least 20 minutes before outdoor activities, as UVC radiation from artificial lights and UVA and UVB radiation from outdoors can still penetrate through windows and cause sun damage.

Preventive measures for reducing the risk of skin cancers include consistent sunscreen application, maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamin C, consuming supplements like cod liver oil capsules, ensuring adequate sleep, managing stress, refraining from picking at moles or pigmented areas on the skin, seeking early diagnosis and consulting with dermatologists or oncologists regarding any new moles, pigmented areas, or ulcers noticed on the skin.

For individuals with a family history of skin cancers or other types of cancers, regular monitoring of moles or any skin abnormalities by a doctor is crucial. Doctors often use specific equipment to examine the contents of moles during these consultations. Any changes observed in the size, color, border, or symmetry of existing moles should prompt immediate medical attention, as they may indicate skin cancer.

Consistent use of sunscreen, a balanced diet, and regular consultations with healthcare professionals can significantly reduce the risk of cancer and ensure early detection and treatment when necessary.

I hope this helps.

Please revert in case of further queries.

Thank you.