Sunscreen doesn't work by instantly making your skin look less tan or preventing a tan from forming. Instead, sun protection starts working immediately after application.
Here's how it works:
- Sunscreen acts as a physical barrier: It blocks the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays from reaching your skin.
- Protection is immediate: Once applied correctly, sunscreen starts protecting your skin from the sun's harmful rays, even if you apply it right before going outside.
- Visible results take time: While sunscreen starts working immediately, the visible results of its protection, like preventing sunburn or premature aging, take time to show.
It's important to note that:
- Sunscreen doesn't reverse sun damage: It only helps prevent further damage.
- The amount of time it takes to see results varies: Factors like skin type, sun exposure, and the SPF level of the sunscreen all play a role.
To get the most out of sunscreen, always:
- Apply it liberally and evenly: Make sure to cover all exposed skin.
- Reapply every two hours: Especially after swimming, sweating, or towel drying.
- Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen: This protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
- Use a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher: This blocks 97% of the sun's UVB rays.
