Everyone loves the sun, and that’s why it’s so easy to forget how damaging those rays can be while you bask poolside. Take these simple steps to protect your skin and scalp so you can enjoy worry-free days in the sunshine – especially if you manage to get away for a much-needed post-lockdown holiday.
When out in the sun:
- Cover up with clothing.
- Wear a hat and sunglasses (sunlight can damage eyes too).
- Use at least a broad spectrum SPF 30.
- Seek the shade when possible.
What’s the problem?
Don’t be duped by the delicious feel of warm sun on the skin.
Those ageing UVA rays will cause leathery skin, wrinkling and brown spots that appear on the back of hands. While the sun’s UVB rays burn the skin (always dangerous), both UVB and UVA rays can cause skin cancer.
Remember the clue is in the name.
UVA=Ageing
UVB=Burning
It’s important to realize that UVA rays are not blocked by glass or cloudy weather. So stick to your skin protection routine whether you’re indoors, in the car or it’s a dull overcast day.
Protect yourself…
The Canadian Dermatology Association recommends all people, regardless of skin tone, should apply at least SPF 30 to any exposed body part. And don’t neglect often-forgotten areas such as the tops of your ears, scalp, hands and neck.
Always look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which guards against both types of sun rays. Choose a minimum of SPF 30 for UVB protection and for UVA protection look out for the letters ‘UVA’ printed in a circle on the packaging or a four or five-star UVA rating.
Remember that moisturizer or make-up with a sunscreen ingredient will not offer enough protection on its own. You need to apply SPF under your foundation or consider a mineral powder for daytime touchups such as Powder Me-Dry SPF 30 Sunscreen from Jane Iredale.
Always apply your sunscreen about half an hour before going out as this gives the product time to work properly – and don’t forget to reapply at regular intervals and always after swimming.
And remember to protect your lips too with a high-factor lip balm.
The sun and vitamin D
Sunshine can help your body make enough vitamin D to keep bones and muscles healthy and even protect against some serious diseases.
However, people with paler skin must balance the risks and benefits of exposure to the sun. Consider vitamin D supplements as an alternative.
Keep an eye on your skin…
If you notice anything new or unusual on your skin, always get it checked out. For example, a mark or a mole that is new or changing shape or colour, or is bleeding or crusty. Ask your GP to take a look to be on the safe side – don’t ignore it and hope it’ll go away.
Sunglasses matter
Treating yourself to new sunnies is always fun but check the label before buying – look out for one that says 100% protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
These will help keep your eyes healthy by protecting them from the sun’s damaging UV rays. And, as well as looking cool, they shield the delicate skin around our eyes from sun damage and premature ageing.
Treating sun damage
Concerned about existing sun damage on your skin? We can treat fine lines and wrinkles, age spots and other signs of ageing caused by UVA rays. Why not chat with one of our anti-ageing specialists to learn more about our range of treatments and products to combat the effects of premature ageing due to the sun.
Book a free consultation…
But prevention is always better than cure. Before you jet off to sunny shores or head to the cottage, get advice on which sun protection products will be best for you, how to ‘fake the bake’ for a risk-free golden glow, and set up a summer skincare routine to ensure you stay safe and look fabulous when out and about in the sunshine. Call 905-681-0277 to book yours.
