Summer is almost here, and while we are all eager to start soaking up the sun, it’s important we keep our skin in mind and the right sunscreen in hand. The sun’s UV rays are a major culprit for premature aging, including creating wrinkles, age spots, and sagging skin – sunscreen is essential to keeping your skin safe and healthy. Read on to learn more about your summertime secret weapon and how to keep your skin safe from the sun.
Who Needs Sunscreen?
Everyone. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, an estimated one out of every five people will develop some type of skin cancer in their lifetime. Regular sunscreen use can help reduce that risk and protect you from the other harmful effects of the sun.
When Should I Apply?
Sunscreen should be applied every day – even when it’s cloudy. Even on overcast days, 80% of the sun’s UV radiation can reach the earth and make an impact on your skin. It’s also important to reapply every two hours!
How Do I Pick One?
When it comes to nourishing your skin and protecting it from the sun, your choice of sunscreen plays a pivotal role in how you will look as you age. And, though the sheer number of sunscreen options you have can be overwhelming, choosing the right one for you mostly comes down one very important factor: is it physical or chemical? As you can see in the graphic below, there’s a BIG difference. Physical sunscreen works like a shield to protect your skin from the sun, whereas chemical sunscreen works like a sponge and actually absorbs and converts the sun’s UV rays. There are many harmful chemicals found in chemical sunscreens that stay in your bloodstream.
You’ve probably heard the term “broad spectrum” when it comes to sunscreen. This means it protects from UVB and UVA rays, which is SO important when choosing the right sunscreen. Your skin deserves the best and that’s why we always recommend a mineral, all-natural physical sunscreen.
Our favorite, simple way to incorporate a physical sunscreen into your daily routine is with our favorite products from Colorescience®. It’s a three-in-one makeup, skin care, and sun care product that works to not only protect, but treat and prevent sun damage, premature aging, redness, fine lines, wrinkles, and brown spots.
How Can I Tell By the Label if It’s Chemical Or Physical?
You can tell by reading the label! In a physical sunscreen, the ONLY active ingredients should be one (or both) of the following: Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide. If you see any active ingredients other than those two, it is a chemical sunscreen.
What Else Can I Do?
Dr. Jacobs shares a lot of information about skin cancer prevention in her book, Live Life Beautifully (With a Little Help). Here are a few other tips she shares in her book:
- Wear sun-protective clothing, UV-blocking sunglasses, and wide-brimmed hats.
- Seek shade whenever possible.
- Apply protective window film to your car and home windows.
- Conduct monthly skin self-exams.
- Visit your dermatologist for annual skin exams.
Is it possible to reverse sun damage?
We offer many treatment options–chemical peels and Pearl Laser, for example–that help reduce the appearance of existing damage from the sun. Maureen (pictured below) came to Dr. Jacobs wanting to get rid of brown spots on her face from sun damage. Look at the difference after getting Pearl Laser treatment! Her skin is brighter and the spots are gone!
Our experts at Ooh La La are eager to help you develop a sun protection regimen that’s right for you! Schedule your consultation today by calling (618) 288-9117.
