Sunscreen is an essential part of any skincare routine, and it’s not just for women. Men need to protect their skin from the sun’s harmful rays too. Unfortunately, many men neglect to apply sunscreen, putting themselves at risk for skin cancer, premature aging, and other skin damage.
The stereotype of a tough, outdoorsy man who doesn’t need sunscreen is not only outdated but also dangerous. Men need to take the same precautions as women when it comes to sun protection. Here are some reasons why:
Sunburn
Sunburns can cause redness, swelling, and peeling, which can be unsightly and uncomfortable. In severe cases, sunburn can even cause fever, chills, and nausea.
They also increase the risk of developing skin cancer. In fact, just one blistering sunburn during childhood or adolescence can more than double your risk of developing melanoma later in life.
Skin cancer
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, for example. It’s also getting more and more common in Estonia, and men are more likely to develop it than women. This is partly due to the fact that men are less likely to use sunscreen and more likely to spend time outdoors without proper protection. Skin cancer is also more likely to be fatal in men than in women.
Premature aging
Exposure to the sun’s UV rays can cause premature aging, including wrinkles, age spots, and sagging skin. While women tend to be more concerned about the appearance of their skin, men should also be mindful of the long-term effects of sun exposure on their appearance. The sun’s UV rays can cause premature aging, such as wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin.
And it’s not just outdoor activities that expose you to UV rays. Indoor activities like driving and sitting near windows can also expose you to UV rays, which can be harmful to your skin.
Uneven skin tone
Exposure to the sun’s UV radiation can also lead to uneven skin tone and dark spots, particularly on areas of the body that receive the most sun exposure, such as the face, neck, and hands. This is because UV radiation can cause the skin to produce excess melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. Over time, this can lead to hyperpigmentation and the appearance of dark spots or patches on the skin.
Sunscreen is like brushing your teeth. It’s not glamorous, but it’s necessary for your health.
So why do men skip sunscreen?
- They think it’s not “manly” to use skincare products. However, taking care of your skin is not a gender-specific activity. Everyone can benefit from sunscreen, regardless of their gender.
- They don’t know how to choose the right sunscreen. It’s important to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and to reapply it every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
- Some men may simply forget to apply sunscreen. However, with a little bit of effort, sunscreen can become a habit just like brushing your teeth or putting on deodorant.
Keep your skin protected!
Men in Finland and beyond need to take sun protection seriously. Sunscreen is not just for women and children; it’s for everyone. By incorporating sunscreen into your daily routine and utilizing platforms like Salu for healthcare advice, if problems arise, you can protect yourself from skin cancer, premature aging, and other skin damage.
Salu allows patients to consult with a doctor via chat, making it easy to access healthcare advice and treatment from anywhere. This is particularly useful for men who may be hesitant to visit a doctor in person or who live in remote areas.
So don’t forget to apply sunscreen before heading outside, and reapply it as needed throughout the day. Your skin will thank you!
