Sunscreen is a vital protection against the effects caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation. It functions by absorbing, reflecting or scattering away UV rays therefore protecting the skin from damage. “Sunscreen contains organic and inorganic compounds that absorb and reflect UV radiation, reducing its penetration into the skin,” as Dr James Turner, a dermatologist at University Hospital states.
There are two types of UV radiation: UVA and UVB. UVA rays penetrate more deeply into the skin where they are largely responsible for long-term skin damage such as aging and wrinkling, while sunburns mostly result from exposure to UVB rays which play a major role in causing skin cancer. Both of them lead to tanning, which happens when the melanocytes in our skin produce more melanin under ultraviolet light stimulation.
Does sunscreen stop tanning? Although it may not completely prevent tanning, it can help reduce it by stopping some of the harmful ultraviolet rays from penetrating your skin. Sunscreens achieve this by preventing or absorbing most of the damaging ultraviolet radiations hence reducing melanin production; this pigment causes tanning. However, no sunscreen product can fully block off 100% of ultraviolet thus you will still have some exposure resulting in a slow tan over time. Proper application and regular reapplication of sunscreen can significantly decrease the intensity of tanning.
Sunscreen is designed to protect the skin against ultraviolet radiation; however, it does not fully block every ray. An SPF (sun protection factor) indicates how well a sunscreen can shield against UVB rays. For instance, SPF 30 lets about 3% of the UVB rays onto the skin while SPF 50 allows in roughly 2%.
"Even with high SPF sunscreens, some UV radiation still penetrates the skin, which can lead to tanning," as explained by Dr Karen Lewis, a skin cancer specialist.
While sunscreen will therefore significantly reduce UV exposure, it does not stop tanning completely. How much different skin tans while using a sun cream depends on various things like the strength of its SPF, how much is put on and how long and hard that person has been exposed to sunlight. Find out more on the Top 10 Sunscreens for Everyday UV Protection
Experts unanimously recommend the use of sunscreen as an essential tool in preventing skin damage as well as cancer. According to research published by Journal of American Academy of Dermatology, regular use of sunscreens with an SPF value of 15 or more reduces melanoma risk by half.
"Consistent use of sunscreen is vital for reducing the cumulative damage caused by UV exposure, which includes preventing sunburn, skin ageing, and skin cancer," stated by Dr Sarah White, a leading researcher in dermatological sciences.
Moreover, certain areas such as the ears, back of the neck, and tops of the feet are often neglected. "Uniform and adequate application of sunscreen is critical. Missing spots can lead to uneven protection and increased risk of sunburn and skin damage," as explained by Dr Emily Brown, a consultant dermatologist.
Yes, sunscreen reduces tan by limiting UV exposure but it does not block it completely.
Yes, sunscreen helps prevent you from getting darker, but it does not entirely stop it.
Using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade helps prevent tanning.
While sunscreen substantially reduces the risk of UV-induced skin damage and skin cancer, it does not completely prevent tanning. The effectiveness of sunscreen in preventing tanning depends on the SPF, the amount applied, and the frequency of reapplication. Health experts strongly advise people to regularly and properly use sunscreen to help prevent the skin. Continue to learn more about the Top 13 Moisturisers with SPF: According to a dermatologist
