Sunscreen is for life… and here’s why
SPF is not just for pool/beach days it’s for everyday LIFE. One thing I stress to all my clients and friends is that SPF is the most important step in your skincare routine because it is the one thing that is going to protect you from UV damage such as free radical damage, skin cancer, premature aging, hyperpigmentation, etc. etc. etc.
It does not matter what skin tone you are, you need sunscreen!!
SOME SPF BASICS
1. Your sunscreen is not protecting you until it’s been on your face for at least 15-20 min.
2. Sunscreen should be reapplied every 2 hours if you are out in the sun.
3. Make sure your sunscreen is water resistant - meaning it is effective while in water or sweating.
4. You should be using at least 2-finger lengths of SPF (I use my ring finger + pink finger).
5. Don't forget your neck and chest!
But now, let’s talk about what is doing the damage … THE UV RAYS
UV = Ultraviolet which is simply a type of energy that comes from the sun.
WHAT DO UV RAYS DO TO OUR SKIN?
Too much sun exposure WILL damage our skin cell’s DNA, causing skin cancer. UV Rays can also contribute to premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and “Sun Spots.”
There are a total of three types of UV Rays, but only two reach us and those are UVA & UVB.
UVA(ging) Rays (closest to us)
These rays have a longer wavelength that penetrates into the deeper layers of the skin. This is what contributes to premature aging in the skin.
UVB(urning) Rays
These rays have a shorter wavelength that causes the skin to burn and that’s where sunburns come from. This is the leading factor for skin cancer.
HOW DO WE PREVENT SUN DAMAGE?
WEAR YOUR SUNSCREEN EVERY DAY!!
The best sunscreen to use is a Broad Spectrum SPF because it will fight against both UVA & UVB rays. Don’t beat yourself up if your everyday SPF is not Broad Spectrum, you are still protecting your skin if you have SPF on. But when it comes to being out in the sun (the beach, the pool, hiking, walking, etc) make sure you have the Broad Spectrum on!
