Using sunscreen is essential in every season!

Prof. Fatma Pelin Özgen, Head of the Department of Dermatology at Üsküdar University Faculty of Medicine, emphasized that sunscreen protects the skin from harmful sun rays, stating: "Using sunscreen is necessary in every season. Even though UV radiation caused by sunlight is less intense in winter compared to summer, it is still present. Therefore, it is essential to use sunscreen not only in winter but also indoors, as UV rays can pass through windows."

Highlighting the importance of choosing sunscreen according to different skin types, Prof. Özgen added: “For oily and acne-prone skin, I recommend non-comedogenic (non-pore-clogging), oil-free, water-based sunscreens, while for sensitive skin, I advise using sunscreens with mineral filters.”

On the occasion of May 27th, World Sunscreen Day, Prof. Fatma Pelin Özgen underlined the importance of using sunscreen for skin health and issued warnings against counterfeit sunscreen products.

Sunscreen protects the skin from harmful sun rays

Prof. Özgen explained that sunscreen serves as a protective barrier against the damaging effects of sun rays and expressed that “Sun exposure is a major factor in both skin aging and the development of skin cancer. Currently, sunscreen is our most effective protective weapon. That’s why its use is of vital importance.”

Sunscreen should be used year-round

“Sunscreen should be used in all seasons,” said Prof. Özgen. “Although UV radiation is less intense in winter than in summer, it still exists. Since UV rays can pass through windows, it is necessary to apply sunscreen even indoors.”

She continued her remarks as follows: “Sunscreen should be applied to the face and neck during daily routines, and to the hands in summer. While on the beach or in situations where the body is exposed, sunscreen must also be applied to the body. In winter, a daily moisturizer with SPF 25 may be sufficient. However, in summer, this level of protection is not adequate, so a separate sunscreen should be applied over the moisturizer.”

Babies under 6 months should be kept physically away from sun exposure

Prof. Özgen stated that sunscreen is not recommended for babies under 6 months. Özgen stated that “Infants should be physically kept away from the sun. For babies older than 6 months, it is important to protect them from the sun, especially near the sea.”

Sensitive skin should use mineral filter sunscreens

Underscoring the importance of choosing the right sunscreen for each skin type, Prof. Özgen expressed that “For oily and acne-prone skin, I recommend non-comedogenic, oil-free, water-based sunscreens. For sensitive skin, sunscreens with mineral filters should be preferred.”

It is safer to buy sunscreen from a pharmacy

Prof. Özgen also warned about harmful ingredients and counterfeit products in sunscreens and concluded her remarks as follows:

“Sunscreen should not contain harmful substances such as oxybenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene, avobenzone, homosalate, and octisalate, as well as parabens and phthalates. There is a higher risk of encountering fake products in online sales. Therefore, it is safer to purchase sunscreens from a pharmacy. Since distinguishing counterfeit products can be difficult, it is very important to shop from reliable sources.”

 

 

Üsküdar News Agency (ÜNA)