Sunscreen: the best defence against sun damage and skin cancer
13 June marks World and European Skin Cancer Prevention Day, an occasion dedicated to raising awareness of the importance of early detection and prevention of the most common cancer worldwide. There is encouraging news: up to 95% of cases can be successfully treated when diagnosed early. However, experts stress that prevention remains the most effective strategy, with sunscreen playing a fundamental role.
Skin memory: damage that accumulates over the years
One of the concepts that concerns specialists most is the so-called “skin memory”. According to Susanna Utrillo, Skincare Technical Specialist at Montibello Skincare, this refers to the cumulative effect that sun exposure has on the skin over the years.
“It is not only UV rays that we need to consider. Visible light, heat and pollution also contribute to a silent process that may not become apparent until years later. “We often do not see the effects immediately. What we see today may be the result of years of accumulated exposure. Over time, this exposure can promote oxidative stress, impair the skin barrier function and accelerate its gradual deterioration.”
The most visible consequences are often pigmentation marks, loss of firmness and wrinkles, but the issue goes far beyond aesthetics. “Cumulative sun exposure can also affect the skin’s long-term health. In fact, it is one of the main risk factors associated with skin cancer”, explains Susanna Utrillo.
Why sunscreen is essential
Sun protection is one of the most effective ways to reduce damage caused by radiation and safeguard skin health in the long term. Its role is to act as a barrier against ultraviolet rays, preventing them from penetrating the skin and causing cellular damage.
There are two main types of sun filters. Physical or mineral filters, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, work by reflecting and scattering solar radiation. Chemical or organic filters, on the other hand, absorb UV energy and convert it into a harmless form of energy for the skin. Today, many formulations combine both types of filters to provide more comprehensive and comfortable protection.
However, applying sunscreen once in the morning is not enough. It should be reapplied every two hours during prolonged sun exposure and complemented by other protective measures such as wearing hats and sunglasses, and avoiding the strongest hours of sunlight during the middle of the day.
“Photoprotection is one of the most important habits for preserving the skin’s health and quality over time. Looking after our skin is not about what we do on a single day, but about the habits we maintain consistently throughout our lives”, says Utrillo.
How to choose the perfect sunscreen
With so many options available, selecting the right sunscreen can be challenging. However, there are several key factors to consider:
- Sun Protection Factor (SPF): For effective protection, a minimum of SPF30 is recommended. For fair, sensitive or highly sun-exposed skin, SPF50 or SPF50+ is the most suitable choice.
- Broad-spectrum protection: It is important to choose formulas that protect against both UVA and UVB rays. UVB rays are primarily responsible for sunburn, while UVA rays are linked to cumulative skin damage and skin cancer.
- Water and sweat resistance: Particularly important during summer, at the beach, by the pool or when taking part in outdoor sports. This helps maintain the product’s effectiveness for longer, although regular reapplication remains essential.
- Photoprotective technology and ingredients: The most advanced formulas protect not only against UV radiation but also against other environmental aggressors such as blue light, infrared radiation and pollution.
- Ease of use: Finding a texture and format that suits individual needs and preferences is crucial to ensuring consistent application. The more pleasant and convenient the product is to use, the easier it will be to incorporate into a daily routine.
Sun Age: complete protection tailored to every need
Montibello Skincare’s Sun Age range delivers comprehensive protection thanks to Blue Oléoactif® technology and a combination of seven broad-spectrum, photostable and biodegradable sun filters. The products are designed to protect the skin from UV radiation, blue light, infrared radiation and pollution, while minimising impact on the marine environment.
The range includes formats tailored to every need:
- Urban Expert Protect SPF50+: A daily-use SPF50+ facial sunscreen enriched with niacinamide. Its formula helps protect the skin from everyday environmental aggressors, including UV radiation, blue light from screens, infrared radiation and pollution.
- Urban Expert Protect Colour Perfection SPF50+: The tinted version of this multifunctional sunscreen. In addition to providing very high protection, its Colour Reveal Tech formula delivers an immediate skin-perfecting effect, enhancing radiance and creating a healthy-looking complexion.
- Invisible Protective Stick SPF50: A transparent sunscreen stick that is water- and sweat-resistant. Ideal for easy reapplication throughout the day on the most exposed areas of the face and body.
- Cooling Mist SPF50+: A very high-protection body mist with rapid absorption and a refreshing effect. It can be applied to wet skin and is resistant to both water and sand.
- Tan Booster Lotion SPF30: A biphasic lotion that combines sun protection with a tan-enhancing action. Formulated with hyaluronic acid, it helps maintain skin hydration despite exposure to salt water and chlorine.
- Silky Dry Oil SPF50: A fast-absorbing, dry-touch photoprotective body oil that provides comfort and elasticity without leaving a greasy residue, making it ideal for those who prefer more sensorial textures.
Our skin stays with us for life and remembers every moment of sun exposure. For this reason, making sun protection a daily habit is one of the best decisions we can take to help prevent skin cancer and preserve healthy skin for the future.
