I’m sure you’ve all been ‘hanging out’ for a summer holiday after the year we’ve had, so hopefully, you’ve had the opportunity to get out and make the most of our beautiful country!
Most of us love the sun, our time at the beach and outdoor activities, but unfortunately the sun creates so many problems for our skin. Of course, we need some sun for certain metabolic functions to be initiated in the skin, including Vitamin D production, but this requires a relatively small amount of exposure and ideally not on areas like the face that are pretty much always exposed.
Here are some of the side effects of excessive sun exposure:
- Freckles
- Sunspots
- Skin cancers
- Redness
- Dilated capillaries
- Skin sagging and thinning
- Dry, dull skin
So, without wrapping up under a blanket for the whole summer, what’s the best way to enjoy being outside and give ourselves the best protection?
- There really is no substitute for covering up, so where you can wear a wide-brimmed hat and keep covered as much as you can.
- When relying on sunscreen, you MUST reapply at least every 2 hours
- Be aware that not all sunscreens are of equal efficacy, even with the same stated SPF rating. Some sunscreens with a high SPF are so ineffective you can still burn in a relatively short time. Look for broad-spectrum sunscreens – these shield from both UVB and UVA. Consider using a sunscreen with liposomal technology- these offer far more efficacy and longevity (Cosmedix Peptide-Rich Defense and our Heliocare 360° range)
- Remember sun protection is also about using antioxidants: make sure you are applying a serum in the morning that along with other antioxidants includes high dose Vitamin C. This can also be applied to the body (Aspect Dr Active C Serum and Environ Body Oil ACE). Our Heliocare 360° Capsules also give a great boost of antioxidants and are so easy to add to your routine.
- If you are out on the water, consider wearing long-sleeve rash vests and like I do for paddle boarding, and even long exercise pants. Even with sunscreen and its reapplication you should limit your exposure time. Sunscreen only ‘screens’; it doesn’t block.
Once I’m out in the water, I always add a rash shirt for extra protection!
- Clothing may not give you adequate sun protection either – consider the thickness of the weave and look at clothing with a UV rating.
- With all these things in place, you will quite possible still experience dehydration so consider adding in some lovely quenching products. Treat yourself to a Société Rejuvenating Peptide Gel Mask once a week. This is loaded with peptides and hyaluronic and leaves the skin incredibly soft, rehydrated and desensitized. The Aspect Hydrating Mask can be used like a night cream, applied over your usual serums. Leave on a generous amount overnight.
- We love the Cosmedix Mystic spray: this is a beautiful refresher – spray throughout the day to replenish antioxidants and hydration. So enjoy those lazy days at the beach, that hike over the hill, or time on the water, but always:
- Cover
- Limit
- Apply
- Reapply
- Replenish those topical vitamins!
Your Skin Team Leader,
Lauren
