We proudly show off bronzed shoulders and tanned faces after a few days of vacationing or logging time outdoors. Feeling fresh and healthy, we milk that glow for a day or two or even the entire summer, turning our tans ever-deeper. But don’t wait until you’re out chasing that perfect summer tan to talk about the dangers of sun exposure. Summer skincare is all about prevention, so take the time to review this skin protection guide now- before you hit the beach!
Sun Effects
From a purely cosmetic perspective, sun is a truly a fair-weather friend. Though we love our tans, sun exposure over time causes skin to thicken, lose elasticity and develop spots of hyper-pigmentation and discoloration. The sun’s rays are catalysts for the outward signs of aging that we otherwise work hard to prevent and reverse. Over-exposure, in the form of a sunburn, is even more deeply damaging. Once a sunburn heals the effects may go unnoticed, but sun worshippers should beware, as they eventually add up. Repeated sunburns before the age of eighteen have been linked to melanoma later in life, while basal or squamous cell carcinoma result from cumulative UV exposure. Those with fair skin carry the greatest risk of harmful sun damage.
Get Protected
Applying a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15 is essential to protect skin and prevent damage from UV rays. That means choosing a formula with UVA/UVB blockers, applying generously thirty minutes before you get into the sun and again every few hours, or more frequently if you are swimming or sweating. Be extra vigilant while the sun is strongest, between the hours of 10 am and 4 pm.
Physical sunscreen contains fine mineral particles of zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to block harmful rays and is less likely to irritate or cause allergic reactions, though it often forms a white barrier on skin. Chemical sunscreen contains a synthetic ingredient like Mexoryl or Parsol that will that will absorb harmful rays, and though these formulas are lighter, they may be more prone to irritate.
Get into the habit of applying sunscreen every day to exposed areas like face, neck and arms, as a few daily unprotected minutes add up to hours over months and years. Sunscreen should be applied before makeup. Also remember to protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses with UV protection. A chic wide-brimmed hat or an umbrella is the perfect skin-saver on the beach. You’ll still need sunscreen, since fabrics won’t block all harmful rays.
The Antioxidant Bonus
Scientists are still testing the protective benefits of omega-3s and antioxidants, especially beta-carotene and Vitamins C and E, but it’s already clear that they supplement sun protection and promote healing. Try green tea, dark chocolate, flax seed and fish oil and orange or red fruits and vegetables, eaten regularly to build the greatest protection. Also keep in mind that many experts do recommend a few minutes of unprotected sun exposure every so often - but never more than fifteen minutes - to promote the production of Vitamin D.
