Cover up or not to cover up – that is the question?
When discussing skincare routines with our clients we often ask whether they include an SPF? Invay we hear ‘I use SPF on holiday’ or ‘it’s in my make-up or moisturiser’. Yes, this offers a certain amount of protection but it doesn’t go the whole way. It’s our responsibility as skin experts to advise what is good for maintaining healthy skin.
Hype or Fact?
So, you’ve read and heard that it is important to use SPF. Is it scare mongering hype or is there real validation in the advice being put out there? I’m afraid it’s true the sun is not your friend! Have you ever been out and about walking and suddenly felt the sun start to burn the skin? It becomes apparent when it’s too late! At the other end of the scale we do little or nothing during winter because we see no signs. In my experience we see time and time again the effects of prolonged sun damage in the form of age spots, pigmentation, premature ageing such as pronounced lines and wrinkles. Research suggests a good layer of broad-spectrum SPF 30 -50 maybe just as important for those who are office bound to those that are spending their days hitting the slopes or taking winter walks.
Age versus Intervention
We know our clients don’t want to look unrealistically 21 again! They just want their skin to be in the best condition for them and age well. Did you know wearing sunscreen can slow the ageing process by 24 % and 80% of rays can penetrate the clouds so winter is a great place to protect your skin.
How do I choose?
Gone are the days of having to wear a heavy chalky or pore clogging protection.
Here’s three options to consider when deciding on what’s right for my skin type
- Is my skin oily – choose an oil free or gel-based product such as Heliocare 360 SPF50 This oil-free, dry touch sunscreen protects skin against UVA/UVB rays, visible light and IR-A (infrared radiation -A). holding powerful antioxidants to support hep repair sun damaged skin.
- Mature or Dehydrated skins – This skin type can benefit from a cream-based sunscreen as a best choice to prevent further dryness and can give additional nourishment. Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield SPF 50.
- Red, sensitive or rosacea skin often struggle with the thought of wearing sunscreens as some ingredients can cause irritation. Ultrasun Extreme SPF50 is perfect for highly sensitive skin, providing powerful protection in a gentle, smooth formula that nourishes skin whilst protecting against UVA and UVB rays.
It wasn’t long ago that we didn’t actually wear SPF at all. Even as far as to say we slathered ourselves in oil in the sun! But of course that has not all changed. If you don’t feel your age, don’t look your age!
