Sunscreen Remains Important In The Rainy Season, This Is The Doctor's Explanation

JAKARTA - Entering the rainy season, many people think that the use of sunscreen or sunscreen is no longer needed because the weather is cloudy and the sun feels dim. In fact, ultraviolet (UV) light can still penetrate clouds and even glasses, so the risk of skin damage is still there even though the sky looks dark.

The use of sunscreen remains an important step to maintain skin health from the adverse effects of sun exposure, especially UVA and UVB.

Clinical microbiology specialist, dr. Ayman Alatas, Sp.MK, emphasized that sunscreen is still effective in protecting the skin even though the weather is cloudy or when it rains.

"For example, if you want to have any cloudy air, we can still see around. There must still be sunlight that comes in and still need sunscreen," Ayman said at a media meeting in Jakarta, Thursday.

Ayman explained, both Ultraviolet A (UVA) and Ultraviolet B (UVB) rays can still reach the surface of the skin, even when someone is indoors or behind the glass. Therefore, the use of sunscreen should still be done every day.

He also suggested re-implication of sunscreen after the skin is exposed to rainwater so that protection remains optimal. If you don't have time to re-apply, people can choose products with a water-resistant formula.

According to Ayman, the recommended level of protection is SPF 30 to 50, accompanied by PA+++ for protection against UVA rays.

"The above SPF is permissible, but the effectiveness is actually not much different. Don't forget to also look at the level of Protection Grade of UPA (PA), because SPF protects against UVB, while PA protects against UVA," he explained.

Meanwhile, dr. Fransiskus Xaverius Clinton, Sp.DVE, a skin specialist who graduated from Hasanuddin University, reminded the public to understand the condition of their skin before buying skin care products, including sunscreen.

He gave an example, someone with sensitive skin, eczema, or atopic dermatitis should be more careful in choosing a product so as not to cause irritation.

"The most important thing is that it must be separated (skincare) between facial and body products. Another important thing is the content," said Fransiskus.

In addition, he reminded the public not to be easily tempted by recommendations on social media. Products suitable for one person are not necessarily in accordance with other people's skin conditions. Therefore, recognizing skin needs and reading product content carefully is the main step before buying care products.