During heat waves and any type of outdoor exposure, the use of sunscreen and other measures is required to prevent severe skin damage.
In addition to heat stroke, dehydration, and other similar effects, high temperatures can be harmful to skin health if appropriate measures are not taken.
In this regard, various specialists mention that excessive sun exposure without protection can cause premature aging of the skin, as well as some types of cancer such as melanoma.
For this reason, dermatologists categorically state that sunscreen should be used, not only when you are on vacation at the beach but at any time of day that involves exposure to the sun, especially during high temperatures.
Whether you’re exercising, commuting to work or college, if you’re out in the sun, it’s vital to use your preferred sunscreen and take other precautions.
How to make homemade sunscreen?
Homemade sunscreen is a much cheaper alternative for skin care. Although it requires care in its preparation, to ensure its effectiveness, it can be a viable option for those who want a less expensive option.
However, although this alternative offers a certain degree of protection, it does not replace a product approved by dermatologists, so it is important to consult the opinion of a specialist. According to the Green Ecology portal, this is one of the recipes for those people who wish to opt for a 100 percent natural product:
Homemade sunscreen made from olive oil
Ingredients
½ cup olive oil.
¼ cup coconut vegetable oil.
¼ cup beeswax
1 tablespoon of essential oil of your choice (one of the best is carrot seed oil)
2 teaspoons of zinc oxide.
Preparation
- Melt the beeswax in a double boiler together with the essential oil and olive oil. Stir and mix all the ingredients.
- Add the zinc oxide, avoiding inhalation, and unify the mixture.
- Remove the mixture when it looks viscous and let it rest for a few minutes before pouring it into a container.
- Then, place the mixture in the chosen container and let it sit overnight or during the day.
- Apply the protector.
How many times a day should we use sunscreen?
According to information from the American Skin Cancer Foundation and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it is recommended to reapply sunscreen every two hours. It is also suggested to use it after swimming or sweating a lot.
Experts say this recommendation is valid regardless of the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of the product. They also say that a sunscreen containing SPF 100 provides greater protection, but not for longer. As for the quantity, they recommend approximately 28 grams of product.
How to apply sunscreen correctly?
According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), there are five steps to follow when using sunscreen. Before doing so, be sure to check the expiration date on the product:
- Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher that is broad spectrum. It is recommended that you consult your dermatologist if you have any questions about which specific product to use on your skin.
- Apply sunscreen generously to your skin 15 minutes before going outdoors.
- Completely cover all areas of the body that may be exposed: neck, face, ears, etc. To protect your lips, you can use a balm that is suitable for you.
- If you need to apply sunscreen on your back, ask for help. Wear a cap or hat for extra protection and hair care.
- Reapply every two hours to prevent skin damage.
May 27: Sunscreen Day
Sunscreen Day is celebrated worldwide to raise awareness among the population about its use and correct application for the benefit of our health and well-being.
In addition, the CDC advises additional measures such as wearing appropriate clothing, caps, hats, sunglasses, umbrellas or even walking under the shade of trees if possible. Remember that prevention is vital to avoid skin cancer and other complications.