Sunscreen can help prevent tanning by protecting the skin from harmful UV rays. Tanning is mostly caused by UVA rays, and using a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays can help prevent tanning. Sunscreen includes active ingredients that help prevent the sun’s UV radiation from reaching the skin. Physical (mineral) sunscreen ingredients, such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, block and scatter the rays before they penetrate the skin, while chemical sunscreen ingredients, such as avobenzone and octisalate, absorb UV rays before they can damage the skin. However, no sunscreen provides 100% protection, and some UV radiation can still penetrate through sunscreen.
Here are some positive and negative aspects of sunscreen:
Positive:
- Sunscreen can help prevent tanning and protect the skin from harmful UV rays.
- Broad-spectrum sunscreen provides clear information on product labels about protection against both UVB and UVA.
- Sun protection products available today combine both physical and chemical types of ingredients.
- Sunscreens are safe and effective.
Negative:
- No sunscreen blocks UV radiation 100% .
- Some UV radiation can still penetrate through sunscreen.
- Some sunscreen ingredients, such as oxybenzone, octinoxate, homosalate, and octisalate, have been found to have potential health risks.
The ingredients in sunscreen can vary, but it is important to choose a sunscreen that is broad-spectrum, has an SPF of 30 or higher, and is water-resistant. It is also important to apply sunscreen correctly and reapply it every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
