Sunscreen for People with Diabetes: Why It's Essential for Skin Protection
Sunscreen is a crucial part of any skincare routine, especially for people with diabetes. This group faces a higher risk of developing skin issues and is more susceptible to certain types of skin cancer. Incorporating sunscreen into daily skincare can help protect against sun-related damage and reduce the risk of complications.
Why Sunscreen Is Important for People with Diabetes
People with diabetes are more likely to encounter skin problems due to the impact of high blood sugar levels. Elevated blood sugar can:
- Cause the skin to become dry and itchy.
- Weaken the skin's ability to heal, increasing the likelihood of infections.
- Raise the risk of developing skin cancers, such as squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma.
Sun exposure can worsen these conditions by damaging the skin and weakening the immune system, which makes infections and cancer more likely to develop. Sunscreen acts as a protective barrier, helping to minimize these risks.
Learn more about how to protect your skin with sunscreen here (https://www.busunscreen.com/blogs/news/rambling-from-the-sunscreen-evangelist?_pos=2&_sid=b42d29973&_ss=r)
How to Choose the Best Sunscreen for People with Diabetes
When selecting a sunscreen, consider these important factors to ensure optimal protection for sensitive skin:
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Sun Protection Factor (SPF): Look for a sunscreen with at least SPF 30, which protects from 96.7% of UVB rays. Higher SPF ratings provide more UV protection and are especially beneficial for people with diabetes, who need extra care. BU SPF 50 protects from 98% UV rays.
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Broad-Spectrum Protection: Make sure the sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection, shielding against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays contribute to skin aging, while UVB rays cause sunburn.
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Water Resistance: If you plan to sweat or swim, choose a water-resistant sunscreen to ensure continuous protection. Note that "water-resistant" does not mean "waterproof"—reapplication is still necessary.
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Non-Comedogenic Formula: For individuals prone to acne, select a sunscreen labeled as non-comedogenic, which means it won't clog pores.
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Fragrance-Free: People with diabetes may have sensitive skin, so opt for a fragrance-free sunscreen to avoid irritation.
Looking for a sunscreen that fits all these criteria? Check out BU Sunscreen’s fragrance-free options here (https://www.buscreen.com)
BU Sunscreen: Trusted by People with Diabetes
At BU, we understand the unique skincare needs of people with diabetes because we’ve experienced it within our own family. Our SPF 30 Fragrance-Free and SPF 50 Fragrance-Free sunscreen sprays have been praised for their effectiveness and suitability for sensitive skin. We aim to create products that work for all skin types and conditions, ensuring everyone can enjoy the outdoors safely.
Additional Sun Protection Tips for People with Diabetes
- Apply Sunscreen Daily: Use sunscreen every morning, even on cloudy days or during winter, to shield your skin from harmful UV rays.
- Reapply Frequently: Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours, or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating.
- Wear Protective Clothing: Consider UV-protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses for extra protection.
- Avoid Peak Sun Hours: Stay out of direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV radiation is strongest.
Protect your skin with BU Sunscreen’s dermatologist-recommended products, designed for sensitive skin and people with diabetes. Visit BU Sunscreen to explore our range of SPF options.
Learn more about diabetes and skin care by visiting the American Diabetes Association's skin care resources (https://diabetes.org/)
