"The phrase 'born beautiful, skin as smooth as congealed fat' has traditionally been used to describe women. For men, the traditional view has always been: rougher and coarser is the true nature of a man." This concept is very narrow-minded and outdated; it seems that once a man uses cosmetics or moisturizers, they immediately appear effeminate. In fact, this is a misconception. In reality, men need sun protection more than women.
Men's skin isn't invincible or immune to harm; it is also composed of proteins, fats, and water. Men, too, need healthy skin. A recent study published on an American website indicates that men are more sensitive to sunlight. Men over 50 have twice the risk of developing skin cancer compared to women, and the mortality rate for male skin cancer patients is significantly higher than for females. This doesn't mean that men are inherently prone to skin cancer, but rather because men tend to neglect sun protection and fail to take necessary preventive measures. Therefore, even though men's skin has a thicker stratum corneum and tends to be oilier, one must not be complacent about sun protection.
Currently, more than 200 countries worldwide forecast daily ultraviolet (UV) index, ozone layer depletion, and environmental pollution figures. The United Nations Environment Programme, International Commission on Radiological Protection, and World Health Organization have announced that every person in the world has the potential to develop skin cancer. The risk of developing skin cancer mainly depends on the intensity and extent of lifetime exposure to UV radiation from sunlight.
According to statistics, currently in the United States, one person dies from skin cancer every hour. Shouldn't gentlemen who disregard their skin health wake up? Caring for your skin and caring for yourself is not just a privilege of ladies; it should also be a lesson that the vast majority of male citizens today need to learn. Fortunately, a new breed pursuing individuality has already awakened; some male citizens who work outdoors long-term have also begun to develop awareness of sun protection. Although they represent a minority among the overall male population, it is undoubtedly progress.
Men need even more sun protection after tanning
The summer sun can be scorching, yet it hasn't dampened men's enthusiasm for outdoor activities. Unbeknownst to many, how many Chengdu handsome men have been tanned this summer? Men probably would say that such a wheat-like complexion represents health. Most of them are indifferent to sun protection and even proclaim that a dark tan is a source of male pride—the darker, the more masculine.
But do you know, men, how much damage UV rays can cause to your skin? It not only tans the skin but can also cause symptoms such as burning, pain, itching, redness, and in severe cases, blisters, ulcers, and infections. Recently, the American Cancer Society discovered that men over 50 are twice as likely to develop skin cancer as women. Experts explained that this has nothing to do with the inherent nature of men's skin but rather because men often ignore sun protection advice and fail to take timely necessary precautions.
So some men might ask: if I'm already tanned, do I still need sun protection? Doctors answer that yes, you still need it. In fact, tanned skin requires even more protection because tanned skin can still be harmed by UVA rays. Thickening of the skin and melanin production are signs of self-protection, but melanin can only partially absorb UVB and cannot absorb UVA.
Sunscreen is needed even on cloudy days
Mr. Zou said, "I never use sunscreen, especially on cloudy days. I don’t have time to apply sunscreen every day when I’m running around outside. It feels so troublesome. Men using these products make us look effeminate. And most of my male friends don't have any concept of sun protection."
Do you agree with what Mr. Zou said above? Do you know that cloud layers provide almost no barrier against UVA ultraviolet rays? All UVA rays can penetrate through the clouds, meaning 90% of UV rays can pass through. Moreover, compared to women, men spend relatively more time outdoors. Therefore, gentlemen, sun protection is essential even on cloudy days.
Many men also ask if sweating profusely in summer will render sunscreen ineffective. Sunscreen with a common oil-in-water formulation dissolves easily in water, reducing its effectiveness when sweating or coming into contact with water. However, sunscreen with a water-in-oil structure remains effective whether during intense sweating or playing in the waves. Therefore, men who love sports or those who run businesses outdoors don't need to worry about this point.
TIPS:
Key points for men’s sun protection:
1. Use umbrellas and sunglasses with UV protection effects, as well as wide-brimmed hats, to protect eyes and skin.
2. Black umbrellas are better than white ones. White umbrellas reflect light while absorbing UV rays.
3. Apply sunscreen frequently. Note that the effective time of regular sunscreen is usually only two hours.
4. Men should choose non-oily sunscreen products with moisturizing functions.
5. If accidentally sunburned during outdoor activities, timely repair care is needed, applying post-sun repair cream. If necessary, seek medical treatment.