Your skin's best friend: Wear your sunscreen now before it's too late!

Sunway Medical Centre Velocity (SMCV) Consultant Dermatologist Dr Nur Ashikin Ahmad, citing a report by the National Cancer Registry, said there is an alarming rise in skin cancer cases, underscoring the urgent need for increased awareness and preventive measures.

"Sunscreen should be an essential part of everyone's daily routine, regardless of whether they are indoors or outdoors. UVA rays can pass through windows and penetrate deep into the skin, leading to premature skin ageing and pigmentation," she said in a statement yesterday.

UV radiation consists of UVA, UVB, and UVC rays. While the ozone layer largely blocks UVC rays, UVB rays remain a significant concern as the main cause of sunburn and skin cancer.

Dr Nur Ashikin also warns about the impact of blue light emitted by digital devices, which research suggests may penetrate even deeper into the skin than UVB rays, accelerating skin ageing.

Dr Nur Ashikin stresses that sunscreen application is one of the most effective ways to protect the skin, and understanding the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) is the key to making the right choice.

In Malaysia's tropical climate, a daily sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 is recommended to prevent UVB-induced redness, she said, adding that sunscreen should be applied when the UV index is typically highest between 10 am and 4 pm, with midday hours often classified as 'high' to 'very high'.

For those spending extended time outdoors with direct exposure to the sun such as at the beach, or during sports activities, she said, SPF 50+ offers superior protection.

"Sunscreen should be applied 15 to 30 minutes before sun exposure or doing any activities and reapplication is necessary every two to four hours, particularly after sweating or swimming, as these factors can reduce sunscreen's efficacy and decrease its sun protection factor," she said.

Dr Nur Ashikin explains that sunscreens come in two types - physical or chemical.

She said sunscreens with ingredients like zinc or titanium oxide, create a barrier to reflect UV rays and they are well-suited for sensitive skin but may leave a white cast, particularly on darker skin.

Chemical sunscreens, in contrast, often contain ingredients such as avobenzone, oxybenzone and octinoxate, and work by absorbing UV rays and converting them into heat, she said.

She said chemical sunscreens are also more lightweight and blend more seamlessly into the skin, which offers better aesthetic appeal but may cause irritation for those with sensitive skin.

While the face is often prioritised for sun protection, Dr Nur Ashikin said the importance of protecting other exposed areas, such as the neck, hands, and legs, which are often overlooked, are equally vulnerable to sun damage.

Prolonged exposure to UV rays can lead to wrinkles, hyperpigmentation and even skin cancer, she said, adding that UV damage builds up over time, contributing to the risks regardless of the body part.

Non-facial areas like the arms and legs are also common sites for melanoma and other form of skin cancers. Regular sunscreen application on these parts also helps maintain skin tone and elasticity.

Dr Nur Ashikin also acknowledges the importance of sunlight exposure for Vitamin D synthesis, particularly during early mornings or late afternoons. However, the duration of sun exposure varies depending on the time of day, season, location and skin colour.

She explained that individuals with lighter skin may need 10 to 20 minutes of direct sun exposure on unprotected skin, while those with darker skin may require five to 30 minutes, as melanin reduces its ability to produce Vitamin D.

Contrary to the belief that darker skin tones don't need sunscreen due to melanin's natural protection, Dr Nur Ashikin clarifies that melanin only offers partial protection.

For effective sun protection, an SPF30+ is recommended to safeguard the skin from sun damage, she added.

-- BERNAMA