Summer Sun Protection For The Skin

The Ozone layer above the Earth no longer provides a sufficient filter to protect the skin against the sun’s harmful UV rays, which cause, ...

The Ozone layer above the Earth no longer provides a sufficient filter to protect the skin against the sun’s harmful UV rays, which cause, at the very least, premature wrinkles and, at the worst, an increased risk of skin cancer. Although a tan used to be associated with glowing good health, it is in fact the body’s way of trying to protect against skin damage. Cells in the outer skin layer respond to sunlight by producing more of the protective pigment melanin. Dark-skinned people have more melanin; those with a fair complexion or a tendency to freckle have less and so burn more easily.

UNDERSTANDING SKIN PROTECTION FACTORS

Skin that has been repeatedly damaged by sunburn is at the greatest risk and moreover provides a poor base for make-up. Suncare and cosmetic products with an inbuilt sun protection factor or SPF will protect your skin, particularly if you spend a lot of time outside. The higher the number that follows the SPF sign, the longer the product will protect against sunburn. For example, as a basic guideline, an SPF15 sunscreen will allow you to stay in the sun 15 times longer than you could with no protection, while an SPF20 will allow you to stay 20 times longer.

SUNBLOCKS

If you want to make sure your skin hardly changes color in the sun or give exposed areas extra protection, you need to wear a sunblock. Sunblocks screen out the sun’s damaging UV rays but should also moisturize the skin at the same time. Always use a separate sunblock for the face and body. A sunblock for the face will prevent tanning and freckles but should also provide a smooth base for make-up if you intend to wear it on top. For this reason, choose a natural-colored sunblock that will not affect the color of your foundation. For best results, apply in the morning about ten minutes after moisturizing.

SAFER TANNING

If you do want to get a suntan, build up the time you spend in the sun gradually. Start off with ten minutes a day. Do not bathe when the sun is at its strongest between 11am and 4pm, and always wear a good pair of quality sunglasses.

APPLYING SUNSCREEN

1. Gently run a sunscreen with an SPF that provides the right amount of protection for your skin coloring, all over your body. Reapply when necessary and always after swimming or exercise if the sunscreen is not water resistant.


2. Sensitive parts of the body such as the shoulders are particularly vulnerable to sunburn and may need extra protection, so run on evenly on these areas.


3. After sunbathing, moisturize skin well with after-sun products to prevent it from becoming dry, and peeling.

OUR FAVORITE SUNSCREENS

1. Estee Lauder Bronze Goddess SPF30
2. Garnier Ambre Solaire Face Protect SPF30
3. Clinique Face Cream SPF30
4. Nivea Moisturizing Sun Spray SPF20
5. Christian Dior Protective Sun Cream SPF30