The skin, our body’s largest organ, consists of several cell types designed to shield our internal structures from the environment. This complex organ is structured into three layers: the epidermis, which forms a waterproof barrier and gives skin its tone; the dermis, which protects the body from stress and strain; and the subcutaneous tissue, which anchors the skin to muscles and bones. As we age, the number of melanocytes decreases, and there is less production of elastin and collagen, which plumps our skin and makes it lose its elasticity. Skin also needs appropriate protection with sunscreen to function precisely, and if left dry, it can get ruptured and susceptible to ailment. [1] Understanding the significance of protection is essential for anyone looking for young and healthy skin in the later years of life.
Why does Sunscreen matter?
Sunscreen is essential for your skin to complete a sun protection strategy against skin cancer and skin damage. They play a crucial role in preventing ultraviolet radiation (can cause sunburns, early skin aging, and skin cancer) from being absorbed by the skin. It is estimated that approximately 9,500 individuals in the U.S. are diagnosed with skin cancer each day. Regular daily use of SPF 15 sunscreen can decrease your risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) by approximately 40% and reduce your risk of melanoma by 50% when applied as instructed. [2]
Who should use sunscreen?
Daily UV protection is essential for supporting healthy-looking skin at every stage of life, including declining years and children over 6 months. As we age, our skin undergoes changes that weaken its defenses to protect against skin diseases and require consistent protection against the sun. By using anti-aging products, its natural loss can be slowed down, or collagen production can be boosted. Sunscreen, especially for seniors, is necessary to reduce fine lines, acne, and wrinkles. [3]
Here’s a guide to proper sunscreen application;
- Who should use it? Everyone, regardless of age, needs to support healthy skin.
- What to use? A broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 15, higher if participating in prolonged outdoor activities.
- When to apply? Daily, about 30 minutes before going outdoors, reapplying every two hours.
- Where to apply? All exposed areas of the skin.
- How much to apply? Roughly one ounce for full body coverage.
- Why use it? To reduce risks of skin damage and cancer.
What are the Ingredients of a Sunscreen?
Sunscreen, or sunblock, helps protect the skin against sunburn and skin cancer by minimizing the number of harmful rays and ultraviolet rays (UV rays) reaching the skin. It helps prevent premature skin aging caused by the sun, including wrinkles, age spots, fine lines, and sagging. Sunscreen includes active ingredients that help prevent the sun’s UV radiation from reaching your skin.
- Physical Sunscreen Ingredients include titanium dioxide and zinc oxide minerals, which reflect and scatter the rays (like a shield) before they penetrate your skin.
- Chemical Sunscreen Ingredients like avobenzone and octisalate absorb ultraviolet rays (like a sponge) before they can damage your skin. [4]
What does SPF mean?
SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, indicates how effectively a sunscreen protects the skin from UVB rays. If you are using SPF 30, it will allow 3% of UV rays into your skin. If you use SPF 50, it will allow about 2% of UV rays through your skin. A sunscreen that is broad spectrum will protect against both UVB and UVA rays. [5] SPF 15 is ideal for occasional daily exposure, while SPF30 or higher is necessary for extended outdoor activities, including distance running, hiking, and outdoor sports. For older adults involved in outdoor tanning or other sunscreen, it is advised to apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30. [6]
Final Thoughts:
Effective sunscreen use is more than a mere cosmetic concern—it is essential for sustaining skin’s health and functionality against aging and environmental factors.
At OnSite Dermatology, we understand the unique challenges that seniors face regarding their skin, and we are committed to providing expert care and advice tailored to their unique needs. We offer essential skin cancer screenings, treatments, and professional medical care without needing transportation, making it convenient and accessible for older adults to maintain healthy skin, especially in community centers and retirement homes. For more information or to schedule a consultation, fill in the form below or give us a call on (877) 345-5300.
References
- Sunscreen and Your Morning Routine | Johns Hopkins Medicine
- Sunscreen
- The Importance of Sunscreen for Seniors – Bethesda Health Group
- Sunscreen: How to Help Protect Your Skin from the Sun | FDA
- What you should know about sunscreen, SPF, and protecting your family
- What Sun Protector Factor (SPF) Should Seniors Use for Their Sunscreen?
