National Sunscreen Day is observed on 27 May and is the perfect time to recognize the danger that comes with harmful ultraviolet radiations. The main purpose of the sunscreen is to protect the skin from the short and long-term effects of ultraviolet radiation. Prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV rays can cause a number of skin problems.
Dr. Srabani Ghosh Zoha said, “Sunscreens can protect your skin from incidence of skin cancer and premature aging. Sunspots and uneven skin tone are largely caused by sun exposure. The common indications for the use of sunscreens in dermatology are in the prevention and management of Sunburn, freckling, discoloration, Photo aging, skin cancer, phototoxic/ photo allergic reactions, photosensitivity diseases, and post-inflammatory hyper pigmentation.”
“When choosing a sunscreen, it is important that you choose a product that offers broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays and has a SPF of at least 30+. It should also be applied generously and reapplied every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating”, she added.
Sunscreen should be the last step in a skincare routine, applied after moisturizer and before makeup. A Doctor can prescribe the right sunscreen, depending on the skin type. One should adhere to medicated sunscreen rather than cosmetic sunscreen. On the occasion of the National Sunscreen Awareness Month, one should take a pledge to wear sunscreen daily to protect the skin.
