By Julie-Ann Sherlock
Being a very fair-skinned Irish woman, I have learned the hard way that it is essential to apply sunscreen even on a dull day. As a child, I got severely sunburned, resulting in sunstroke that ruined our family holiday. Later in life, I had to get some pre-cancerous moles removed due to a few more incidents of sunburn.
Living in Malaysia has made that even more urgent, as my body is finally exposed to sunshine daily!
Most of us know sunscreen is an essential skincare product for sunny days or vacations at the beach. However, there’s a growing misconception that it is only necessary for pale individuals like me.
This assumption couldn’t be further from the truth. Regardless of skin tone, everyone needs protection from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which is highly damaging to the skin. So, let’s delve into the importance of body sunscreens, shedding light on why they are indispensable for safeguarding against skin cancer, regardless of skin colour.
The Prevalence Of Skin Cancer
Globally, skin cancer is prevalent, with its incidence continuing to rise. The American Cancer Society states that almost 10 thousand skin cancer cases are diagnosed each year in the United States alone. Sadly, one in five Americans are likely, by the age of 70, to develop skin cancer.
While there are various types of skin cancer, melanoma is the deadliest form and is responsible for the majority of skin cancer-related deaths. The statistics tell a story: there is an urgent need for effective sun protection measures.
Understanding UV Radiation
The biggest villain in the development of skin cancer is UV radiation emitted by the sun. Two main types of UV radiation penetrate the Earth’s atmosphere: UVA and UVB. UVB rays mainly affect the skin’s outer layer, leading to sunburn and skin cancer.
Meanwhile, UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin, leading to premature ageing but also contributing to the development of skin cancer. Both types of UV radiation are harmful and necessitate adequate protection.
The Importance Of Body Sunscreens
Body sunscreens play a crucial role in shielding the skin from UV radiation. They work by preventing the UV rays from penetrating the skin and causing damage by absorbing or reflecting them. While clothing provides some degree of protection, it’s often insufficient, especially during prolonged sun exposure.
Spraying or rubbing some sunscreen on your body offers an additional layer of defence, helping to minimise the risk of sunburn, premature ageing, and skin cancer.
Dispelling Myths About Skin Tone And Sun Protection
There’s a common misconception that individuals with darker skin tones are immune to UV radiation’s harmful effects and, therefore, don’t need sunscreen.
While it’s true that darker skin tones have more natural protection against UV radiation due to higher levels of melanin, they are still susceptible to sun damage and skin cancer. In fact, research has shown that people of colour are often diagnosed with skin cancer at later stages, leading to poorer outcomes. This disparity underscores the importance of sun protection for all skin types.
Furthermore, studies have revealed that certain populations, such as individuals of African, Asian, and Hispanic descent, are more likely to have skin cancer diagnoses in areas of the body with less melanin, such as the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and mucous membranes. This highlights the need for comprehensive sun protection, including the use of body sunscreens on all exposed skin, regardless of skin colour.
Choosing The Right Sunscreen
When selecting a sunscreen, it is best to opt for a broad-spectrum formula as it offers protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Additionally, dermatologists recommend using a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher to give better protection.
SPF measures the level of protection against UVB rays, with SPF 30 blocking approximately 97% of UVB radiation. For extended outdoor activities, water-resistant sunscreens are advisable, as they provide longer-lasting protection, even when sweating or swimming.
Incorporating Sunscreen Into Your Skincare Routine
To ensure optimal protection, it’s essential to add sunscreen to your daily skincare routine, regardless of the weather or season. Apply generous amounts to all exposed body areas, including the face, at least 15 minutes before sun exposure.
It is vital to reapply it throughout the day, approximately every two hours or more frequently, if swimming or sweating profusely. Remember that UV radiation can penetrate clouds and cause damage even on overcast days, so consistent sun protection is critical.
So, no matter your complexion or ethnic origin, body sunscreens are indispensable for protecting against the harmful effects of UV radiation and reducing the risk of skin cancer. Everyone should prioritise sun protection as part of their daily skincare routine.
We can all take proactive steps to safeguard our skin health and well-being by dispelling myths surrounding skin tone and sensitivity and embracing comprehensive sun protection measures.