Sweet, sweet summertime. It has finally arrived here at the beach! What exactly does that mean…? Days full of fun in the sun and lots of sunscreen! A product that reduces our risk of skin cancer, prevents the onset of wrinkles, and protects against sun damage. Sounds like magic in a bottle to me! Truthfully, your SPF should be the most important step in your skincare routine. If you aren’t applying sunscreen every single day… this is your sign to start! For those of you who are, your future self is already thanking you!
What Exactly is SPF?
For those of you who don’t know (I sure didn’t!), SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. This measures protection from the sun’s UVB rays. You’ll want to choose a sunscreen of at least 30 SPF and a max of 50 SPF. Also, it needs to be “broad spectrum,” protecting skin from both UVA and UVB rays. These rays are harmful to the skin causing burns, premature aging, dark spots, and skin cancers. Everyone needs to wear sunscreen. The sun doesn’t care what your skin tone is! It is recommended to reapply every 1-2 hours, especially if you are doing activities like swimming or sweating.
Physical vs Chemical?
There are two main types of sunscreens: physical and chemical. Physical sunscreens act like tiny mirrors that sit on the skin and reflect the sun completely. A barrier is created between you and the sun! Chemical sunscreens will still allow absorption of the sun, meaning this will not completely protect you. Both are extremely important! We recommend using chemical for your body since it is exposed to the sun least. On areas that are visible to the sun daily (i.e., face, neck, hands, and chest) we recommend physical sunscreen!
Why Do I Need It?
- To reduce the risk of skin cancer
- Protection against sunburn
- To avoid inflammation and redness
- Prevention of fine lines and wrinkles
- To avoid uneven skin pigmentation
Tips to Protect Skin from Harmful Rays
- DO NOT USE EXPIRED SUNSCREEN
- Wear sunscreen daily! Water, sand, and even snow have reflective properties that increase the risk of sunburn.
- Avoid rays in the peak times of the day: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm.
- Wear sunglasses that have 100% UV absorption.
- Wear protective clothing such as a wide brimmed hat or sun shirt.
- Yes, you can also be exposed to rays inside! Driving in a car allows sun rays to reflect off the glass, potentially causing damage.
Where Can I Buy Quality Sunscreen?
At Touch MedSpa, of course! A spa favorite physical sunscreen is SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion. It has a universal tint and is perfect to use on the face, neck, hands, and chest. This also is offered in sheer! A go-to chemical sunscreen is SkinCeuticals Light Moisture. It comes in a big tube for body application. It is a 2 in 1 product that protects your skin while moisturizing it! If you are on the go and need something quick, the Powder-Me SPF dry sunscreen by Jane Iredale is perfect! It is a weightless physical SPF 30 broad spectrum sunscreen which is offered in 4 shades!
Questions?
We’d love to answer any questions you may have and help find the perfect sunscreen for your lifestyle! Please remember, wear it daily! ?
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