While we all look forward to beach days and time spent by the pool, enjoying the summer sun, it is extremely important to protect your skin. Sunscreen is one of the most effective protective agents against potential damage from the sun’s powerful rays for all ages, genders, and skin types. The aestheticians at the Spa at Woman’s Center for Wellness are here to provide some advice to help keep your skin healthy.
Sunscreen protects your skin from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays by absorbing, reflecting, or scattering sunlight. They contain chemicals that interact with skin to protect it from UV rays, which come in two forms – UVA and UVB. UVA rays are most commonly associated with aging skin, as they tend to cause fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots that can make your skin look prematurely older. UVB rays are the ones that cause most sunburns. The easiest way to combat this is to wear a daily sunscreen, choosing one with a proper SPF, sun protection factor.
When choosing and applying a sunscreen, there are a few things to consider:
- Choose a broad spectrum sunscreen, SPF 30 or higher, that is also waterproof. SPF 30 will provide adequate coverage, blocking up to 96% of the sun’s rays. Amount of coverage increases slightly with higher SPF’s.
- Wear sunscreen on every occasion you will be spending time outside. Even on a cloudy day, ultraviolet rays can penetrate cloud coverage and damage skin. It is also important to keep in mind that sand, water, and even snow, reflect the sun’s rays, which can make them more powerful when it hits your skin.
- Apply sunscreen liberally to all exposed areas 15-30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours, more frequently after perspiring or swimming. Don’t forget to cover areas like your scalp, ears, and feet, which are all susceptible to both sunburn and skin cancer.
- Sunscreen does expire. Prior to applying your sunscreen, be sure to check the expiration date, as this will alter the level of protection provided. If sunscreen has a change in color or consistency, do not use it.
To help keep your skin protected and looking it’s best, Woman’s Center for Wellness is offering 15% Off of any sunscreen product or skincare product purchased on the day of your facial. To schedule an appointment or get more information, please call 225-924-8388.