It is believed that everyone has heard of and knows the dangers of sunlight, especially UV or Ultraviolet light. However, only a few may understand and recognize the types of UV light and know how to protect themselves properly.
The Dangers of Each Type of UV Light
UV light is divided into 3 types: UVA, UVB, and UVC, each with different dangers.
- UVA : Contributes to the destruction of DNA in skin cells, causing long-term damage such as wrinkles, and increasing the risk of skin cancer and cataracts.
- UVB : The main cause of sunburn and damages DNA in skin cells, leading to various types of skin cancer.
- UVC : This light is filtered by the ozone layer in the atmosphere and does not reach the earth’s surface.
Additionally, UVA is further divided by wavelength into UVA1 and UVA2. UVA penetrates the skin deeper than UVB and can pass through clouds, building glass, and car window films. Therefore, even when clouds block the sun, it does not mean the danger of sunlight decreases. We should always protect ourselves from UV damage by avoiding strong sunlight between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, staying in the shade, wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants, as well as hats and sunglasses. The most important thing not to miss is applying sunscreen every day.
How to Apply Sunscreen Properly
Proper application of sunscreen is important. Many people apply it thinly because they dislike the sticky feeling. Most people apply it only once a day, thinking it is enough to protect against the sun all day.
In reality, the recommended amount of sunscreen is 1 teaspoon or 2 finger joints for the face and neck area. It should be applied at least twice a day or reapplied every 2 hours if sweating heavily from outdoor activities or water activities. It should be applied at least 15 minutes before sun exposure to allow the cream to coat the skin.
When choosing sunscreen, consider your occupation, type of work, sports or activities, and skin sensitivity to ingredients in the sunscreen. It should have a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher and protect against both UVA and UVB. Also, choose fragrance-free types as fragrances may cause allergic reactions.
Another important point that many people forget is when starting to use a new sunscreen, apply a small amount first and gradually increase the amount. If any allergic reactions or other side effects occur, consult a dermatologist promptly for treatment and advice on proper sunscreen product selection.
