Spring: how to choose and how to use sunscreen

Solar radiation is formed by invisible rays, among which the ultraviolet A (UVA) and B (UVB), responsible for premature cutaneous aging and the increased risk of skin cancer. These rays can affect us all year round, even in cloudy weather, so we should always use sunscreens.

Sunscreens contain physical and / or chemical substances that act protect to the skin of solar radiation. They must be effective against UVA and UVB rays. Photoprotectants avoid burns on the skin, provided that they fulfill certain necessary conditions efficiency, safety and quality of the product. The National Administration of Medicines, Food and Medical Technologies (ANMAT) is the public body responsible for verifying that these conditions are fulfilled.

he sun protection factor (SPF) is a number that defines the capacity It has a product to reduce the effects of ultraviolet B radiation, which acts directly in the generation of skin cancer. This number is the one that appears on the containers of the protectors: the higher the SPF, the greater the protection.

How to choose an FPS?

Should never be under 30 years. An SPF 30 protector blocks 97% of UVB rays.

We often hear "the protector has no effect". Something very important after choosing the FPS is Apply it the right way. It should be applied around 2 mg per square centimeter of skinshould be placed 30 minutes before sun exposure to get its absorption and effect, and renew it every 2 hours since then stop protecting us. It's important to keep in mind that this happens with all sunscreens in all its forms of presentation.

On the other hand, all the skins are not identical, there are dry skins, oily skin and mixed skins. several presentations like milk, cream, spray, fog, etc. Choosing the cosmetic of the protector is important, feeling comfortable When using, it is essential because we must use it every day of the year, whenever there is sun exposure.

So, what is the best photoprotector? The one that is used!

Does the photoprotector protect us?

Sunscreen protects us from burns that can cause the sun but the protection it is not total. It is important to take other care measures, such as avoiding the sun during the most intense hours (from 10 to 16 hours), renew When applying the protector every 2 hours, wear clothes, hats and sunglbades with a proper filter.

As a practical measure when we are outdoors, it is prudent to expose to the sun when the shadow that our body gives is greater than the height. It is important to keep in mind that all photoprotectants, even those resistant to water, must be reapplied every 2 hours. The water resistance of sunscreens is to preserve their function to protect us from the sun after an immersion of 40 minutes in the water, but that does not imply that it should not be renewed.

In children, photoprotection care must be extreme. They develop many more outdoor activities than adults and the main risk factor for skin cancer is ultraviolet radiation, especially radiation. received during childhood. 80% of the damage caused by the sun occurs before the age of 18 old, its effects are cumulative and irreversible throughout life. Children under 2 years old should not be exposed to direct sunlight always using sunscreen.

(*) Dr. Cecilia Lamas (MN: 123554) is a dermatologist with a degree from the University of Buenos Aires. He was trained at the General Hospital of Agudos by Dr. Cosme Argerich of Buenos Aires. He is a full member of the Argentine Dermatology Society, a full member and founder of SOLAPSO and a member of the International Dermoscopy Society.