The sun emits ultraviolet (UV) radiation that can cause significant damage to our skin. There are two primary types of UV rays: UVA and UVB.
UVA Rays: These rays penetrate deep into the dermis, the thickest layer of the skin. They're responsible for long-term damage such as wrinkles, fine lines, brown spots and other pigmentation disorders. UVA rays are present all throughout the year, even during winter, penetrating through clouds and even windows.
UVB Rays: These rays affect the upper layer of skin, the epidermis, causing sunburn and contribute to the development of skin cancers. UVB intensity varies with season, geographic location, and time of day, being strongest between 10am and 4pm.
Photoaging, caused by exposure to UVA radiation, involves the degradation of collagen and elastin fibers, resulting in sagging skin, wrinkles, and age spots. So, it's really a no-brainer to apply SPF each and every day to significantly reduce these signs of aging by providing a protective barrier against UVA rays.
Sun exposure can exacerbate hyperpigmentation conditions such as melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Daily application of SPF helps to prevent the darkening of existing spots and the formation of new ones, resulting in a more even, radiant skin tone.