Blocking the Rays

The Advantages of Wearing Sunscreen 

Photo by BATCH by Wisconsin Hemp Scientific on Unsplash

When most people think of summer, they think of the beach, waves crashing, a cool breeze and the sun on their skin. Tanning is a great way to achieve a sun-kissed glow, but it is also important to prioritize skin health and safety. Arguably, the most crucial step in responsible tanning is wearing sunscreen. While some may argue that sunscreen can interfere with the tanning process, the benefits of sun protection outweigh any potential drawbacks. 

One benefit to wearing sunscreen is that it acts as a barrier, shielding one’s skin from harmful UV rays. According to MCR Health, the Earth’s Ozone layer, which usually absorbs UV rays, is currently depleting, which makes sunscreen even more important. Applying sunscreen often helps prevent sunburns which can be painful and may increase your risk of long-term skin damage. 

“I think everyone should wear sunscreen,” sophomore Ella Tobe said.

By wearing sunscreen, individuals can enjoy their time in the sun without worrying about the immediate and long-term consequences of overexposure. 

Beyond just limiting sunburns, sunscreen also plays a crucial role in maintaining overall skin health. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, sunscreen reduces one’s risk of developing skin cancer, which is a serious concern for those who spend a lot of time in the sun. 

“I know that they [UV rays] can cause skin cancer and that you should protect yourself,” upper school chemistry teacher Kristin Kline said.  

Sunscreen does more than just protect you from skin cancer, it can also help keep your skin looking youthful and radiant, preventing premature aging and wrinkles.

Contrary to popular belief, wearing sunscreen can actually help maintain a tan longer by locking in moisture. According to Woman and Home, UV rays can break down melanin reducing your ability to tan. One should wear sunscreen every day no matter the occasion to prevent skin damage. Even knowing this, many people tend to stay away from sunscreen due to qualities such as smell and texture. 

“I just don't like it, it smells weird, it feels weird,” sophomore Grayson Banks said. “I don't like any brands that smell like bananas.”

Despite the few negative aspects that sunscreen brings, there are many brands of sunscreen that are worth trying to avoid being uncomfortable. By protecting your skin from the sun’s damaging effects, sunscreen allows a tan to develop and last without fading too quickly. This means one can enjoy a sun-kissed glow for longer without having to constantly reapply tanning products. Many positives can outweigh possible disadvantages of wearing sunscreen such as sensory issues, which can generally be avoided.

Tanning can be a relaxing and enjoyable experience, but it can also be uncomfortable if skin becomes irritated or dehydrated. Sunscreen helps soothe and hydrate the skin, reducing the risk of discomfort and ensuring a more pleasant experience. Wearing sunscreen while tanning is a responsible and essential step in maintaining a healthy skin barrier. By prioritizing sun protection, one can peacefully enjoy the benefits of tanning without compromising long-term skin health.