Summer’s here and we’re looking forward to enjoying the glorious sunshine with vitamin D boosting our mood and health. But, sun exposure can have some serious consequences for your skin, unless you know how to protect it.
Impacts of the sun’s rays
The sun has both long wave ultraviolet A and short wave ultraviolet B rays. UVB target the superficial layers of the skin, while UVA reach deep into thickest layer of skin, the dermis.
Even without burning, skin cells can still experience damage caused by the sun’s rays. UV penetration causes free radicals to develop as cells suffer trauma. Free radicals damage cell function, causing abnormalities which result in superficial deterioration, and in some cases, skin cancer.
Damage to cell function includes:
- Slowing down natural exfoliation processes
- Reduction in collagen and elastin production
This damage manifests in signs of premature aging, such as:
- Blotchy skin
- Brown spots
- Sagging or thinness of skin
- Dull complexion
- More visible fine lines
- Wrinkles
How to prevent sun damage
Give your skin the consideration it deserves and take care of it by:
- Limiting exposure to the sun between 10am and 4pm, which is when UV rays are the most intense.
- Covering up the skin as much as possible when outdoors. Wear a wide-brimmed hat with long pants and sleeves.
- Applying sunscreen to all exposed surfaces 30 minutes before sun exposure. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30+ and reapply every two hours.
- Using an SPF lip balm.
How to treat sunburn
It’s important to treat sunburnt skin gently by:
- Taking cool showers or applying a cool compress
- Applying aloe vera lotion or gel to sooth and moisturize, continuing to do so while the skin peels
- Protecting the skin from further sun exposure
How to repair skin after sun exposure
It’s critical to prevent further damage to your skin by wearing sunscreen. You should also:
- Exfoliate or have microdermabrasion to reduce skin unevenness and brighten your complexion
- Rehydrate the skin with a consistent moisturizing regimen
- Apply vitamin C rich products to reduce toxins created by sun damage and thereby eliminate brown spots
- Apply vitamin A rich products which contain antioxidants to normalize sun damaged cells
Why you should use face sunscreen
Face and body sunscreens are designed with different formulas. Because facial skin is more sensitive, face sunscreens have been formulated to be lighter and non-comedogenic. Therefore, they cause less irritation and acne. Some body sunscreens such as the dry-touch sprays have a high alcohol content which is very drying to the skin. Be kind to your face and use an appropriate facial sunscreen.
Protect your skin for a healthier and more youthful you! For more expert help with skin health, book an appointment at our Vancouver skin spa, send us a message
Dermaly Picks
Suggested sun blockers with added skin care benefits while protecting your skin at the same time!
Elta MD Clear
Skin Type: Sensitive, Acne Prone, Hyper Pigmentation,
Helps calm and protect sensitive skin types prone to breakouts, rosacea and discoloration. It contains niacinamide (vitamin B3), hyaluronic acid and lactic acid, ingredients that promote the appearance of healthy-looking skin.
Elta MD SPF 40
Skin Type Combination, Dry
Serious UV protection and superior hydration join forces in this sheer facial sunscreen. EltaMD UV Daily has hyaluronic acid to boost moisture retention and diminish fine lines.
Jan Marini Antioxidant SPF 30
Skin Type All, preferring anti-oxidants built into sunblock
Fast-absorbing and cosmetically elegant, features microscopic particles for additional oil control making it perfect for wear with or without makeup. Enhanced with antioxidants phytomelanin and beta glucan 1,3 to help reduce and address damage caused by sun exposure.
Luzern La Defense Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
Skin Type Anti-Age
This protection powerhouse helps prevent sunburn and minimizes signs of premature aging from multiple sources. Natural mineral-based sunscreen shields skin from damaging UV rays, while Lutein guards skin from blue-light emitted from smart phone and computer screens.
