Why is Sunscreen an absolute necessity?

While most of us are no strangers to sunburns, we do try and avoid sunscreens as much as possible. It may simply be the tediousness of applying the lotion or not knowing the importance of certain skin care essentials. In truth, sunscreens have abundant benefits, many of which we are not even aware of. Here are 4 reasons why sunscreen is an absolute must in everyone’s skincare routine - 

1. Protection from ultraviolet rays
   Ultraviolet (UV) rays are a large part of the sun’s rays that reach the Earth. While the ozone layer traps these harmful rays, preventing them from reaching the ground, it doesn’t stop them completely. Moreover, with the depleting ozone layer, more of these rays are able to reach us! These UV rays are extremely harmful and have adverse long-term effects on the skin. Applying sunscreen actually blocks these rays from penetrating the skin and triggering skin disorders. Sunscreens with a high sun-protection factor (SPF) is recommended.
   
   
2. Enhances skin health
   This is one of the most convincing reasons to start using sunscreen - for youthful, radiant and healthy skin. A sunscreen protects the vital skin proteins like collagen, keratin and elastin which are essential for keeping the skin smooth and healthy. In addition to this, it even prevents facial spots, discolorations and helps maintain an even skin tone.
   
   
3. Prevents a host of health complications
   Red, sore and burning, sunburnt skin is downright unpleasant to deal with. Not only that, sunburns weaken your skin tremendously. Under the influence of UV rays, your skin is liable to suffer repeated attacks of peeling, swelling, redness, hives and itching. Sunscreen in addition to other preventive measures like increased water intake helps to combat other repugnant consequences like heat strokes and heat exhaustion as well. Another result of UV exposure is premature aging of the skin. Prolonged exposure leads to wrinkles and fine lines, giving it a saggy and leathery look. Sunscreen helps to prevent these effects.
   
   
4. Lowers the risk of skin cancer
   While skin cancer is essentially caused by a hereditary genetic predisposition, that is not the only cause. Sun exposure is the next biggest factor leading to skin cancer. The AAD estimates that avoiding exposure to UV rays could prevent more than 3 million cases of skin cancer every year! Protecting your skin is imperative and since completely avoiding the sun is impossible, a good sunscreen is the next best thing to help safeguard yourself from various types of skin cancer, especially melanoma.