Sun cream

Sun cream

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Type	Topical skin product
Inventor
Inception
Manufacturer
Available
Current supplier
Last production year
Models made
Slogan

Sun cream, also known as sunscreen, is a topical product applied to the skin to protect against the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. It is an essential component of sun protection strategies to prevent skin cancer, sunburn, and premature aging.

Composition

Sun creams are formulated with a combination of organic and inorganic ingredients that work by absorbing, reflecting, or scattering UV radiation. The active ingredients in sun creams are classified into two main categories:

• Organic (chemical) filters: These compounds absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat, which is then released from the skin. Common organic filters include oxybenzone, avobenzone, and octocrylene.

• Inorganic (physical) filters: These minerals, such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, reflect and scatter UV radiation. They are often preferred for sensitive skin due to their broad-spectrum protection and lower risk of irritation.

Sun Protection Factor (SPF)

The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) is a measure of how well a sun cream protects the skin from UVB rays, which are primarily responsible for sunburn. An SPF rating indicates the theoretical amount of time a person can be exposed to the sun without getting sunburned compared to unprotected skin. For example, SPF 30 means you can be in the sun 30 times longer than without protection.

Application and Usage

For effective protection, sun cream should be applied generously and evenly to all exposed skin areas at least 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapplication is necessary every two hours, or more frequently if swimming, sweating, or towel drying. It is important to use a broad-spectrum sun cream that protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

Health Benefits

Regular use of sun cream can significantly reduce the risk of developing skin cancer, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. It also helps prevent photoaging, which includes wrinkles, loss of skin elasticity, and pigmentation changes.

Environmental Impact

Some chemical ingredients in sun creams, such as oxybenzone and octinoxate, have been found to harm marine ecosystems, particularly coral reefs. As a result, there is a growing demand for "reef-safe" sun creams that do not contain these harmful chemicals.

History

The development of sun cream began in the early 20th century, with the first commercial products appearing in the 1930s. The formulation and effectiveness of sun creams have evolved significantly over the decades, with modern products offering enhanced protection and cosmetic appeal.

Also see

• Skin cancer prevention
• Ultraviolet radiation
• Photoaging
• Melanoma
• Basal cell carcinoma
• Squamous cell carcinoma