Why do Cricket Players use White Cream?

The physical sunscreen, consisting of zinc oxide, is the white lotion that the cricketers use to protect their skin. Zinc oxide is the main and most effective component of any physical sunscreen that cricketers wear. It is a mineral that is white and powdered and has long been used to block the sun’s harmful rays.

Cricket players apply zinc oxide white cream, a specific type of sunscreen, to their faces. It can provide more security than regular sunscreen. UVA and UVB rays can still reach the epidermis since such sunscreens permeate the body. As a result, cricket players or anyone else who must spend a lot of time in the sun shouldn’t use these creams.

Such generic skin-protective lotions do not need a prescription. The high refractive index, high thermal conductivity, binding, antimicrobial, and UV protection of zinc oxide are its main properties.

Why do cricketers use white cream containing zinc oxide on their faces?

Applying such a white cream is mostly done to protect the skin from the sun. The next part goes into great detail about the effects of sun damage on the skin as well as the primary components of the cream.

Skin Defense Against Solar UV Rays

To shield the skin from the damaging effects of solar UV light exposure, such lotions are used. Sunlight is the main source of UV rays, which damage the DNA in skin cells and are the main cause of the majority of skin cancers.

Ultraviolet A (UVA), ultraviolet B (UVB), and ultraviolet C (UVC) photons are present in sunlight. The atmosphere of the earth blocks UVC, but human skin directly absorbs UVA and UVB.

We need to be aware of the harmful UVA and UVB impacts, which are outlined below:

UVA rays can prematurely age the skin by penetrating its lowest layer. Due to the fact that its effects are delayed, it is more harmful. UVB rays harm the skin’s outer layer, which results in blistering and tanning. Before, during a practice session, and also during a cricket match, cricketers spend a sizable amount of time on the field in the blazing sun.

As cricket players spend hours in the sun, it is crucial to protect their skin from excessive UV exposure, which can cause long-term damage and, in certain rare instances, increase their risk of developing skin cancer.

Consequently, in addition to sunglasses and hats, a skin protection lotion could significantly reduce or prevent damage. When playing or practicing in the sun, cricketers typically wear full-length pants and full-sleeve shirts or compression arm sleeves; as a result, facial skincare is primarily necessary.

Also Read: Arm Sleeves: Why Do Cricketers Wear Them?

Conclusion

For a variety of reasons, cricket players frequently apply white cream to their faces. The white cream is usually used to protect the skin from the sun’s harmful rays. The cream acts as a shield, diverting the sun’s rays and limiting overexposure to UV radiation. This is especially important for long games performed in the hot sun.

The white cream also helps to increase the visibility of the athletes. The pure white colour contrasts sharply with the green tone of the field, making it easier for players to find one another and for spectators and referees to follow the action. It enhances the visual appeal for viewers and contributes to the overall aesthetics of the game.