How to choose your sunscreen?

Why is sunscreen so vital in your skin care regimen?

I don't think many of us realize that it is. Especially if achieving and maintaining healthy skin is on your agenda.

**Without daily application of sunscreen you are exposing yourself to the following:

- Skin cancer
- Hyperpigmentation (dark spots)
- Faster aging of the skin
- Collagen and elastin deterioration (the two things that give your skin it's elasticity & firmness) In other words if these things deteriorate you will wrinkle & sag :( lol. Which is a natural part of life! However you can help your skin with proper skin care so it remains at it's best for as long as it can.

So what does all of this mean to you?

Prevention is key! It's never too early to start.

"Sun exposure is the number one cause of skin cancer and pre mature aging" quoted from Salon Fundamentals Esthetics

** How to choose the right SPF for you?

Full spectrum sunscreen is the type to go for. This type of sunscreen protects the skin from both UVA and UVB rays. Sunscreens absorb or reflect Ultraviolet rays.


UVA rays are your aging rays. These rays are longer and can penetrate into your dermis and cause aging. UVA rays lead directly to wrinkles and sagging of the skin also towards skin cancer. These rays are often used in tanning beds!

UVB rays are your burning rays. They are shorter and cause sunburns.

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. The number of an SPF allows you to stay in the sun that many times longer without being burned. Reapplication of sunscreen is important especially if you are sweating or engaging in activities with water that can have SPF removed.

An SPF that's higher like 50 & up can lead to more sensitivity due to the increased concentration of active ingredients. More for your skin to react too so be careful :/ U usually recommend a sunscreen of 30 or 35 there's not a huge difference between the two.

Apply on all areas to be exposed to sun 20 minutes before sun exposure. If possible should be reapplied every two hours and always reapplied after activities that could've potentially wash it off. (swimming...etc.)

**Keep in mind sunlight comes through windows and UV rays are even stronger through glass.

SOURCES: Salon Fundamentals Esthetics A Resource for Your Skin Care Career and Milady's Standard Esthetics Fundamentals.



GOOD LUCK!