Sweet Cheeks
Although sun safety is never out of season, summer is a reminder to be extra careful and serious about sun protection. Celebrate sun drenched days with sweet cheeks not red cheeks! Play it smart and don't forget to protect your skin from the potential dangers of UV rays before they happen. Nothing threatens your skin's appearance like UV damage and over-exposure. Shielding the skin from aging is prevention which is much easier than correction!!
Visible Side-Effects of UV Over-Exposure:
Skin Pigmentation – UV rays induce melanin production, stimulating hyperpigmentation, otherwise known as sun or brown spots and discolorations.
Formation of deep lines and wrinkles - caused by loss of collagen production – Solar radiation injures fibroblasts, the connective tissues that secrete skin-rejuvenating collagen and elastin.
Dehydration- The skin’s barrier function is impaired and moisture levels drop leading to dehydration and a leathery appearance.
Cellular Damage – Excessive and repeated sun exposure can permanently damage skin cell DNA, resulting in skin cancer.
A Few Tips to Stay Protected:
Use products with a "sun protection" factor (SPF) of 15 or more daily.
Reduce your time in the sun- the sun's rays are strongest between 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. so stay alert.
Wear clothing that protects your body and cover vulnerable skin. A wide brimmed hat, sunglasses and sit under an umbrella for extra shade.
Allow about 15 to 30 minutes after application before sun exposure.
Reapply, Reapply, Reapply at least every two hours.
While there’s no denying that sunscreen is essential for maintaining safe and healthy skin, the debate over a chemical vs. physical active ingredients remains a source of conflict between skin care professionals and product developers. Manufacturers continue to produce cheaper ingredients, such as oxybenzone, found widely in supermarkets and OTC drugstores despite safety concerns. Learn the facts when it comes to chemical based sun care.
Until next time,
Claudia