Summer is here, and with it comes the season of sun, sea, and sand. For a long time, a widespread myth has held that men, unlike women, don't need to take special care of their skin. However, this mindset is outdated. Men's skincare has evolved, and sunscreen has gone from being an extra to an essential step in daily hygiene and health.
There is a growing awareness of the need to use a good sunscreen, especially for those who enjoy outdoor activities or frequent swimming. It is essential to avoid peak sun hours, generally around midday, as the radiation is most intense. However, protection must be consistent, since the skin is constantly exposed to external aggressors such as pollution and blue light emitted by computer and mobile phone screens, which accelerate skin aging and reduce firmness.
Why use sunscreen
There are three main and crucial reasons to incorporate sunscreen into your life. First, it will prevent wrinkles and premature aging ; it's estimated that up to 80% of visible signs of aging are linked to sun exposure. Second, it will drastically reduce the incidence of sunspots and melanomas. Finally, and most importantly, it will significantly lower the risk of developing skin cancer, a real and cumulative threat.
It is vital to understand that the damage is cumulative. Many men ignore incidental exposure , which occurs while driving, walking, or working near a window, since UVA rays can penetrate glass and clouds, causing photoaging.
What products to use and how to choose them
Dermatologists recommend using broad-spectrum formulas . This means they are products designed to protect the skin against the two most harmful types of sun rays: UVA (responsible for aging and dark spots) and UVB (which cause sunburn). Some advanced technologies, such as the XL-Protect complex, even protect against visible light and infrared radiation.
To choose the ideal sunscreen, we must consider the phototype and the SPF (Sun Protection Factor):
- Fair skin (phototypes I-III): the use of a SPF 50+ It is mandatory to avoid rapid burns.
- Brown skin (phototypes IV-VI): A minimum of FPS 30.
- Technical data: While FPS 30 blocks approximately 97% of UVB rays, FPS 50 reaches 98%.
The choice of texture is key to ensuring that the product can be used daily without generating rejection:
- Oily or combination skin: Presentations in gel or spray These are ideal, as are water-based or alcohol-based formulas and without oil (oil-free). There are products with matte effect and technologies like "Oil Control" that prevent excessive shine and do not clog pores (non-comedogenic).
- Dry skin: More nourishing creams that incorporate ingredients such as hyaluronic acid or ceramides to maintain hydration.
- Sensitive skin: It is preferable to opt for mineral filters (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) and fragrance-free hypoallergenic formulas.
- Athletes: There are protectors designed for sports with a very fast absorptionpreventing your hands from getting greasy, which is critical when holding a tennis racket or similar equipment.
- Eye zones: To avoid eye irritation, it is recommended to apply presentations in bar on the forehead and around the eyeballs (never on the eyelids).
If you prefer a discreet product, there are options on the market that do not add odor or leave white residue, perfectly suited to the lifestyle of the modern man.
Common mistakes and application tips
To obtain the maximum benefits, it is necessary to avoid three common mistakes:
- Summer use only: The sun affects us all year round. The solution is to apply it. daily, even on cloudy days.
- Do not reapply the product: The effectiveness of the sunscreen decreases over time. It needs to be replaced every 2 hours long.especially if you sweat or swim. Mist or spray formats are ideal for reapplying without getting your hands dirty.
- Fear of not getting a tan: SPF 50+ does not prevent tanning, but rather allows it to occur. progressive and safeavoiding burns.
To apply it like a pro, use about half a teaspoon of the product on your face 20 minutes before leaving home. Complementing the sunscreen with hats and sunglasses with UV400 protection is the most complete protection strategy.
Apply sunscreen after shaving
A key recommendation from dermatologists is to incorporate sunscreen into your morning routine right after shaving and before applying moisturizer. Shaving exfoliates the skin, leaving it more vulnerable; therefore, your facial skin will greatly appreciate this immediate layer of protection.
Some modern products combine hydration and protection in a single step, including active ingredients like niacinamide, peptides, or vitamin C , which help even skin tone and combat wrinkles while protecting the skin. The key to success isn't buying the most expensive product, but rather one with a texture that feels comfortable and that you can easily incorporate into your daily routine.
Image sources: Estoyradiante / AnalÃtica
Maintaining healthy, youthful skin in the long term depends directly on consistent sun protection. By prioritizing lightweight textures, choosing the right SPF for your skin type, and reapplying the product every few hours, you'll ensure your skin stays firm and free of blemishes over the years.