In Malaysia, the weather is summer-like all year round, regardless of whether it's sunny or cloudy. You may wonder: Is it necessary to apply sunscreen every day? Sunscreen is more than just a skincare product. It not only prevents wrinkles, age spots, and dryness but also protects against damage caused by ultraviolet rays from the sun, making it one of the key measures in preventing skin cancer. Let's explore more on this topic!

The Harmful Effects of UV Rays

Ultraviolet (UV) rays are invisible rays from the sun, primarily classified into two types: UVA and UVB. UVA penetrates deep into the skin, leading to skin ageing and wrinkles, while UVB is the main cause of sunburn and skin darkening. Short-term overexposure to UV rays may result in sunburn, causing a burning sensation and pain upon touch. A few days later, the skin might start to itch and peel. However, long-term overexposure to UV rays can lead to more serious health issues, such as skin cancer. Therefore, regardless of the weather, UV rays can cause harm to the skin, which is why applying sunscreen daily is essential for skin protection.

What is Sunscreen?

Sunscreen, also known as sunblock, is a topical product containing one or more protective ingredients that absorb, reflect, or scatter harmful UV radiation from the sun. Nowadays, sunscreens are available in various convenient forms, such as sprays or lotions, and come with different SPF values to cater to varying needs.

Tips for Choosing Sunscreen:

1. Pay Attention to SPF and PA Ratings:

A. What is SPF?

The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) is an index that indicates the level of protection against UVB radiation. A higher SPF value means longer-lasting protection. This value tells you how long it will take for the sun’s UV rays to cause your skin to burn compared to not wearing any sunscreen. For example, using an SPF 30 sunscreen means that your skin's burn time is extended by approximately 30 times. In Malaysia, it is recommended to use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 or higher to ensure adequate protection against UV radiation.

B. Understanding PA Levels:

PA is an indicator of the effectiveness of a sunscreen in protecting against UVA radiation. UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin, causing skin ageing, wrinkles, and pigmentation. The PA rating is usually denoted by the "+" symbol, with more "+" signs indicating stronger UVA protection.

For example:

• PA+       : Provides basic UVA protection

• PA++     : Provides moderate UVA protection

• PA+++   : Provides high UVA protection

• PA++++ : Provides very high UVA protection

2. Choose According to Skin Type:

For dry skin, opt for sunscreens with a moisturising and hydrating texture. For oily skin, a lightweight, non-greasy sunscreen is more suitable.

3. Consider Water Resistance:

Choose a water-resistant sunscreen if you plan to engage in water activities such as swimming or are prone to sweating. However, note that “water-resistant” does not mean “waterproof”. Water-resistant sunscreens should be reapplied according to the instructions on the product label.

Finally, developing good sunscreen habits is crucial. Besides applying sunscreen, we can also wear appropriate sun-protective clothing and accessories, such as hats, sunglasses and covered shoes, and try to stay in the shade or use an umbrella, especially around midday. By following these simple steps, you can effectively protect your skin and reduce the risk of sunburn! Let's keep our skin healthy and enjoy the sunshine while still looking fabulous!