The Importance of Sunscreen in Men's Skincare
Created on 10th August 2023 by Avindo Gonsalves
Men's skin and sunscreen
Benefits of using sunscreen for men
Choosing your sunscreen
Overcoming common hurdles
Men spend more time in the sun than women. Hence it is very important that men use sunscreen on a regular basis. But most men that I have met are of the opinion that men don’t need to use sunscreen. This is a skincare myth. Everyone must use a sunscreen when they are out in the sun.
In fact, sunscreen is an important part of any skincare routine. Even the most basic routine includes use of sunscreen.
Men’s skin and sunscreen
Men’s skin is thicker and oilier that women’s. This has led to the misconception that men’s skin is immune to sun damage. Men are not immune to harmful effects of UV rays and require diligent sun protection.
Statistics reveal higher cases of skin cancer in men. This makes sun protection crucial. Men tend to spend more time in the sun for work or recreational activities. Hence they are more exposed to UV rays, making them more susceptible to sunburn, premature aging and skin damage.
Since men’s skin is oilier. Excess oil can lead to clogged pores and increase acne when combined with sweat or sunblock. Therefore men must choose non-comedogenic sunscreen formulations that won’t clog pores.
Benefits of using sunscreen for men
Exposure to the sun brings our skin in contact with harmful UV rays of the sun. These rays can cause a number of skin problems.
UV rays can damage the protein collagen, which makes our skin firm. Hence UV rays can cause signs of premature aging like wrinkles and saggy skin.
UV rays can increase the production of the pigment melanin. This pigment gives our skin its dark color and exposure to UV rays can cause hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone.
The UV rays can also cause sunburn, which can result in redness, pain and peeling of the skin. Finally, UV rays can cause skin cancer.
Hence it is important to use a sunscreen for everyone, men or women, when they go out in the sun. It is also important to use sunscreen throughout the year during summer and even in winter.
Choosing your sunscreen
While choosing any skincare product it is important to look at the label on the product. This applies to sunscreen as well. Check whether the sunscreen offers protection against UVA and UVB rays.
Select an SPF (sun protection factor) depending on your skin tone and sun exposure. For most people, an SPF of above 30 is enough. But if you have fair skin and intense sun exposure, then you may need higher SPF. Also, reapply sunscreen after every 2 hours and after swimming or sweating.
If you are into sports or involved in outdoor activities, then you can opt for water-resistant options.
Overcoming common hurdles
Now, there are reasons why most men hesitate to use sunscreen. They worry about the greasiness and white residue associated with sunscreens.
If this is the case they opt for non-greasy formulations that are designed for quick absorption. Such sunscreens won’t leave the skin feeling oily.
If you have a problem with application, then opt for simpler products such as sprays or lotions. As mentioned, choose water-resistant options.
Using sunscreen is important as it can prevent skin damage and aging. It can also offer protection from skin cancer.
In conclusion
Many men consider that the thicker nature of their skin gives them immunity from the effects of the sun’s UV rays. Hence they don’t use sunscreen.
The sun’s UV rays affect men more that women as men tend to spend more time outdoors. Moving out in the sun without sun protection can lead to premature aging, hyperpigmentation, sunburn, uneven skin tone and skin cancer.
Therefore it is important to use a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of above 30, when moving out in the sun.
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