Applying sunscreen is important for your health
Although some may think otherwise, wearing sunscreen is important for your health. The cream protects you against UV radiation. It is important that you buy a cream that protects against both UVA and UVB. The difference between the 2 is that UVA penetrates deep into the skin and attacks the elastic fibers, causing (faster) skin aging and wrinkles. In addition, your immune system can weaken and there is a risk of skin cancer. UVB radiation causes your skin to burn and damage on the surface. This radiation also causes skin cancer. But UVB also has a positive effect: it promotes the production of vitamin D.
UVB is blocked by a thick layer of clouds, but UVA comes through the clouds and is therefore always there, even in the shade. UVA even penetrates through glass. It is therefore important that you apply a product with SPF every day (including in winter). Preferably one with the highest possible protection factor.
Does older sunscreen still protect?
The question now is: can you still safely use older sunscreen, for example from last year? The answer is: yes, but the protection can be reduced due to certain circumstances. If the bottle has been opened and has been in the sun for some time, the protection factor (SPF) has decreased. This means you have to apply it more often to get the same protection.
Do you have an unopened product and have you stored it in a cool and dark place? Then you don’t have to worry. Under these conditions, sunscreen has a shelf life of about 2.5 years. So you can use a well-stored bottle in the cupboard with peace of mind.
Choose the right sunscreen
Sunscreens can vary considerably in price and quality. The Consumers’ Association tests various products every year and informs consumers about the products that perform best in the test, or that promise more than they deliver. Useful for inspiration, but it is of course important that you apply a cream that you like. Every skin is different and while you may like a scent, someone else may not. Therefore, test different products to find a sunscreen that suits you. If you have one that you like to apply and smell nice, you will apply it more often and thus best protect yourself. You can read about what is in sunscreen on MAX Today.
Do you want to know whether the substances in the sunscreen product you want to buy, or already have at home, are safe? On the website Waarzitwatin.nl you can look up the ingredients and find an explanation.
What is in sunscreen and is it safe for your skin?
(Source: KWF, Archive, Waarzitwatin, MAX Today, Margriet. Photo: Shutterstock)
