Did you think the sun conceals scars?
Quite the opposite! Scars and sun are a bad combination.
Here are some tips to avoid pigmentation (darkening) of scars.
Scars and sun How does the sun affect scars?
Ultraviolet radiation increases pigmentation in scars and worsens their appearance. This is where sun protection factors become essential.
According to experts, the thickness of the photoprotector should be around 2 milligrams per square centimeter of skin.
To make sure you are wearing the right amount of protection, you should apply the sunscreen about 20 minutes before sun exposure followed by a new application 30 minutes after being in the sun and a constant reapplication every 2 hours.
Cream vs. clear gel
Remember also that a dense, dark cream is always more protective than a more fluid, transparent gel.
Beach and mountain risks
Altitude increases the risk of sunburn, so extreme protection is also necessary in the mountains. Snow and sand reflect solar radiation by 80% and 25% respectively.
What is SPF or Sun Protection Factor?
Indicates the multiple of time it takes for protected skin to develop erythema (redness) compared to the time it takes for the same skin to develop erythema without any protection.
For example, if a person can stay in the sun for 10 minutes without getting sunburned, an SPF 30 indicates that the same skin can be exposed to the sun without the risk of getting sunburned for 30 times as long, i.e. 300 minutes.
What is the right SPF for scars?
In the case of scars, the recommendation to use full-screen photoprotectors (SPF 50+) along with staying in the shade and covering up with clothing and a cap, minimizes the risk of pigmentation of the scars.
It is worth remembering that on a cloudy day, ultraviolet radiation from the sun can be 40%.
