Skin Care: Sunscreens
Sunscreens Overview
There appears to be some confusion about the messages people are getting
about sunscreens and why they’re so important. Some use sunscreens
to prevent sunburn, whereas others use sunscreens to improve sun
tanning. Some wish to avoid the wrinkling associated with sun exposure,
and others believe that sunscreens prevent all types of skin cancer, yet
others seem to believe that they can use sunscreens in order to prolong
their time in the sun.
What Is A Sunburn?
There are two major types of UV sun damage: UVA-type damage, with
light wavelengths of 340-400nm, and UVC-type damage, which includes light
wavelengths of up to 340nm. UVA-type damage can cause the skin to tan
and may cause very weak burns, while UVC-type damage causes skin to burn.
Frequently Asked Questions About
Sunscreen And Sunburns
- How Much Sunscreen Should I Apply?
- How Often Should I Apply Sunscreen When I'm Out In The Sun?
- How Long Before Sun Exposure Should I Apply Sunscreen To My Skin?
- Sun Protection Factor (SPF) - What Is It?
- Why Is It Important To Use Sunscreens During Childhood?
Anti-Oxidants
And Sun Damaged Skin
The UVA light is absorbed by both DNA as well as urocanic acid, the photo-chemical
reaction produces oxidation of both DNA, nucleide acid, and protein, as
well as lipids, this is known as oxidative damage. Anti-oxidants have
been evolved to protect against, and reverse some of the damage produced
by sunlight. An anti-oxidant mechanism is very advanced in plants
that protect against the damage from sun exposure.
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