The popular belief that a glowing natural skin color obtained from being exposed to the sun while protected by  sunscreen, is a sign of a healthy skin complexion. Not many are aware that overexposure to the sun’s rays has negative effects, including risks of developing skin cancer and rapid skin aging.

It is actually sun exposure that causes most of the changes in our skin, which we tend perceive as a normal part of the aging process. Long periods of exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) light, damage the elastin which are the fibers in our skin. When the elastin breaks down, the skin loses its elasticity, it starts to sag and stretch, bruises and tears easily and takes longer to heal.

Moreover, the sun can also damage the tissues of the skin around your eyes, the eyes, and the eyelids.

About Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is a disease in which there is an uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells that grow rapidly and haphazardly. The growth can result in tumors that are either malignant (cancerous) or benign (non cancerous). There are actually three types of skin cancer, namely:melanoma, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.

The last two, make up 95% of all skin cancers and are considered to be the less serious types. They are also called non-melanoma skin cancers , denoting that they can be cured when treated early.

Melanoma on the other hand, consists of melanocytes, which are abnormal skin pigment cells. It is also considered as the most serious type of skin cancer, as it accounts for 75% of all skin cancer-related deaths. If left untreated, the melanocytes can  spread to other organs.

Generally, most cases skin cancers are due to excessive exposure to UV rays.  Still, there are other sources of ultraviolet rays that come from man-made technology such as sun lamps and indoor tanning beds.

Even though the sun is the main source of the harmful rays, it doesn’t mean you have to stay out of the sun completely. Simply limiting one’s UV exposure by wearing protective clothing and staying in the shade most of the time are still the best methods of  preventing skin cancer . Even with proper sunscreen use, UV rays can  get through and burn the skin, since sunscreens only act as filters and not as a complete shield from the sun.

Why Korean Sun Screens are Popular

The cosmetics industry of South Korea has created chemical sun filters with light-weight formula, suitable for any type of skin. Korea is considered as one of few countries wtih advanced technologies for skin care without using animals to test the efficiency of the products.

Sunscreens with chemical filters zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are deemed as the safest barriers against UV rays.  However, most Koreans did not find favor with the way they leave white casts on the skin. White casts especially for Korean celebrities can be a turn off since they have to mind their appearances.

That is why the popular sunscreens in Korean skincare today are those jam-packed with natural ingredients. Mainly because these ingredients can control sebum production and at the same time, promote a soothing effect. These natural ingredients include aloe vera, chamomile, calendula, avocado, and gotu kola. It provides immediate feeling of freshness, which can be very helpful during summer when the weather is hot.

Moreover many brown-skinned Korean celebrities are gaining popularity as Korean hip hop icons, Nevertheless Korean pop stars like Hyori Lee, are giving Cosmetic Recommendation for natural sun screens as skin protection