Affiliation:
1. Department of Dermatology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Aushapur, Telangana, India,
Abstract
Topical sunscreens have been widely used for more than 40 years by people for their photoprotective properties, including the prevention of photocarcinogenesis, photoaging, and management of photodermatoses. However, for it to be effective, knowledge of a good sunscreen and its technically correct application is of utmost importance. It is important to emphasize to consumers the necessity of broad-spectrum protection, with coverage of both ultraviolet (UV) A (320–400 nm) and UV B (290–320 nm) radiation. This perspective discusses the effects of UV rays on the skin, the benefits of sunscreen, different types of sunscreens, how to select a good sunscreen, the correct method of application of sunscreen, and sunscreens in pregnancy and children.