In the quest for youthful, radiant skin, there’s one skincare essential that stands above the rest: sunscreens. Regardless of the weather or your location, incorporating sunscreen into your daily routine is a crucial step in combating skin aging and reducing the risk of serious conditions like skin cancer.There’s no single solution for skin aging defense. This sentiment was echoed by board-certified dermatologist Windie Villarica-Hayano during a summer-centric event hosted by Anessa Philippines, where she emphasized the paramount importance of sunscreen in maintaining skin health, particularly for people of color.
According to Dr. Villarica-Hayano, a staggering 95% of skin aging is attributed to sun exposure. This statistic underscores the significant role that sunscreens play in preventing premature aging and protecting the skin from harmful UV rays. Whether you’re a man or a woman, the sun’s damaging effects do not discriminate based on gender. As Dr. Villarica-Hayano aptly stated, “the sun doesn’t discriminate.” Therefore, regardless of gender identity, it’s imperative for everyone to prioritize sun protection, including the regular use of sunscreen.
In regions like the Philippines and across Asia, common skin concerns among individuals of color include Melasma (Pekas), sunspots, and freckles. Dr. Villarica-Hayano emphasized that the presence of these conditions indicates underlying skin damage, further highlighting the necessity of sunscreen as a preventive measure. Sunscreens application should be viewed not only as a form of self-care but also as a fundamental aspect of healthcare. Skin cancer, which can result from prolonged exposure to unfiltered UVA and UVB rays, does not discriminate and can affect individuals of all skin tones.
As explained by Dr. Vicki Belo to GMA News Online, UVA rays are aging rays, while UVB rays are burning rays, and effective sunscreen protection should guard against both. UVA rays have the ability to penetrate deeply into the skin, causing inflammation and contributing to various skin conditions. Importantly, these rays can pass through windows and indoor environments, emphasizing the need for sunscreens even when direct sun exposure is limited.
In conclusion, sunscreens are the vital tool in the fight against skin aging and the prevention of skin cancer, particularly for people of color. By incorporating sunscreen into your daily skincare regimen, you can protect your skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation, maintain its health and vitality, and preserve its youthful appearance for years to come. Remember, sun protection is not optional—it’s essential for maintaining healthy, beautiful skin, regardless of your skin tone or gender.