Sunscreen has gained popularity over the last few decades for good reason! Most people now understand it is the most important step in our skincare routine, no matter your skin tone. But where did it all start? Why the various formulas and what made it a staple it is today?

Despite the recent popularity over the past few decades, you’d be surprised to learn that people have understood the importance of sun protection even thousands of years ago!

Before the modern sunscreen we know today, people have used scarves, clothing, clay, crushed flowers, mud, oils and more to prevent sun burns. Even the ancient Egyptians applied a thick paste made of rice bran to their skin. Olive oil was used by ancient Greek civilizations and native Americans would create a paste of pine needles and sunflower oil. 

The first official sunscreen became available to the public in 1932. It was created by an Australian chemist named Milton Blake and was commonly used as a toiletry item in Australia before it became popular in America. Today there are thousands of sunscreens available in a variety of SPF (sun-protection factor) ratings and formulas.

How Sunscreen Became a Skincare Staple

Due to the awareness of skin cancers and the latest advancements in dermatology people are becoming more aware of the dangers of not wearing sunscreen.

Years of research has confirmed that both UVA and UVB rays from the sun can cause melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers that are increasing over the years. It is estimated that eighty percent of skin aging comes from the sun. When people use sunscreen, it protects their skin from these harmful rays that lead to cancers and aging concerns.

Understanding the Importance of Sun Protection

The sun emits two types of harmful rays:

  • UVA Rays → Responsible for fine lines, wrinkles, and sun spots.
  • UVB Rays → Cause sunburns and play a bigger role in skin cancer.

Both UVA and UVB rays can penetrate the skin and cause damage, which is why dermatologists recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both types of rays.

Types of Sunscreen: Physical vs. Chemical

The two types of sunscreen are physical and chemical.

One is not necessarily better than the other and both protect from the UV rays if it is labeled as “broad spectrum”.

Broad spectrum means it protects from both UVB and UVA rays.

Both rays can cause burning and aging but UVA rays are most responsible for fine lines and sun spots while UVB rays tend to play a bigger role in sunburns and skin cancer. 

How to Apply Sunscreen Properly

Now that you know about sunscreen and its importance, let's learn how to apply! Below are the steps recommended by the FDA for applying sunscreen. Before following these steps it's important to have clean and dry skin!

Step 1: Apply 15 minutes before sun exposure. This allows the sunscreen to have enough time to provide the maximum benefit.

Step 2: Use enough to cover your entire face and body (avoiding the eyes and mouth). An average-sized adult or child needs at least one ounce of sunscreen about the amount it takes to fill a shot glass) to evenly cover the body from head to toe.

Step 3: Know your skin. Fair-skinned people are likely to absorb more solar energy than dark-skinned people under the same conditions and may be more likely to burn.

Step 4: Reapply at least every two hours, and more often if you're swimming or sweating.

Commonly Missed Spots When Applying Sunscreen

It's important to point out frequently missed spots such as:

  • Ears
  • Nose
  • Lips (use SPF lip balm)
  • Back of the neck
  • Hands
  • Top of feet and toes
  • Along the hairline
  • Exposed scalp (if hair is parted, balding, or thinning areas)

To ensure full protection, double-check these areas when applying sunscreen.

Additional Ways to Protect Your Skin from the Sun

Are there other ways to protect your skin other than sunscreen? Of course! In addition to wearing sunscreen you can also wear protective clothing such as hats, sunglasses and long sleeves!

Limiting sun exposure is another important factor, especially between the hours of 10 AM to 2 PM when the sun's rays are the harshest! Remembering to reapply your sunscreen a minimum of every two hours is another important step. 

How to Choose the Right Sunscreen for You

Now that you know the history and importance of sunscreen, where do you begin? With thousands of options to choose from it's important to look at the SPF of at least 30 or higher.

An SPF of 30 or higher blocks at least 97% of the sun's UVB rays. Don't be fooled by higher SPF numbers, such as SPF 100, no sunscreen can block 100% of the sun's UVB rays.

Make sure you also look for the time recommended to reapply that particular sunscreen. There are sprays, sticks, lotions, lip balms and even powdered sunscreens so be sure to test out formulas that feel most comfortable for your skin!

With thousands to choose from you can certainly find the right sunscreen for you. If you need recommendations be sure to stop by our office!

Protect Your Skin Every Day!

Sunscreen is a simple but powerful tool in protecting against skin cancer and premature aging. Whether you prefer physical or chemical formulas, the key is applying and reapplying consistently.

If you need personalized sunscreen recommendations, stop by our office at Peach Dermatology, we’d be happy to help you choose the right one for your skin type!