The sun is beneficial, but unprotected exposure can cause dark spots, sunburn, and increase the risk of skin cancer. Using sunscreen every day, even when the sky is cloudy, is the best way to keep your skin healthy.
To help you take even better care of yourself, we spoke with Family and Community Medicine Physician, Dr. Cristiane Jorge, who answered some essential questions about the topic.
Is it really necessary to use sunscreen every day, even on cloudy days?
“Using sunscreen is very important for your health even on cloudy days, as ultraviolet rays pass through the clouds and reach the skin. Therefore, using sunscreen is necessary to prevent dark spots, premature aging, and skin cancer,” explains Dr. Cristiane Jorge, Family and Community Medicine Physician.
What sun protection factor (SPF) is most recommended for daily use?
“Choosing a sun protection factor depends on each individual’s particular needs, with SPF 30 being the minimum recommended. If a person has a history of skin cancer or dark spots, or has fairer skin, they should prioritize a higher SPF, at least 50.”
What precautions should we take with children and older adults during the summer?
“We need to take certain precautions, especially with children and older adults, as they are more susceptible to complications such as dehydration and sunburn. Therefore, it is extremely important that children over six months of age use sunscreen specifically formulated for children with SPF 50 or higher, and that older adults also use SPF 50 or higher. Babies under 6 months of age should not use sunscreen, so they should avoid direct sun exposure and stay preferably in shaded areas. Children and older adults should only be exposed to sunlight during safer hours, before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m.,” emphasizes Dr. Cristiane.
