Sun & Aging. Now you know…
Wearing your sunscreen? We know we need to wear sunscreen but do we really know what it’s doing for us? Sun damage is real. The sun and ultraviolet (UV) electromagnetic radiation have the greatest impact on how our skin ages. Our cells have the ability to protect us with our built-in antioxidants, however the cells deteriorate with increase sun exposure.
Approximately 80-85% of our aging is caused by sun exposure.
Frequent exposure to the dangerous rays along with already weakening of collagen and elastin fibers actually accelerates the aging process. Furthermore, UV exposure actually alters the DNA and may cause skin cancer.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) tell us here are three types of UV rays:
Ultraviolet A rays (UVA)
The atmosphere does little to shield these rays—most UVA radiation reaches Earth’s surface.
UVA rays cause skin aging and eye damage, and can lower your body’s ability to fight off illness. UVA rays also contribute to the risk of skin cancer.
Ultraviolet B rays (UVB)
The Earth’s atmosphere shields us from most UVB rays—the amount of UVB rays that reach the Earth’s surface depends on latitude, altitude, time of year and other factors.
UVB rays cause sunburns, skin cancer, skin aging, and snow blindness (a sunburn to your cornea that causes a temporary loss of vision) and can lower your body’s ability to fight illness.
Ultraviolet C rays (UVC)
UVC rays do not reach the Earth’s surface because they are completely absorbed by the atmosphere.
Harmful effects from UVC rays are minimal. (1)
Sun protection does more than protect the skin, it defends the cells from radiation, cell death, tissue breakdown, and premature aging. Estheticians can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles but can also be your first defense as we can suggest getting checked from your Dermatologist. Yearly skin checks are important to recognize any changes in mole or spots on your face and body.
A broad-spectrum SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is recommended to protect against UVA & UVB rays. In general, the FDA recommends that you use broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher, even on cloudy days. In addition:
Apply sunscreen liberally to all uncovered skin, especially your nose, ears, neck, hands, feet, and lips (but avoid putting it inside your mouth and eyes).
Reapply at least every two hours. Apply more often if you’re swimming or sweating. (Read the label for your specific sunscreen. An average-size adult or child needs at least one ounce of sunscreen, about the amount it takes to fill a shot glass, to evenly cover the body.)
If you don’t have much hair, apply sunscreen to the top of your head or wear a hat.
No sunscreen completely blocks UV radiation. So other protections are needed, such as protective clothing, sunglasses, and staying in the shade.
No sunscreen is waterproof.
Currently, only sunscreens in lotion, cream, stick, gel, oil, butter, paste, spray, and powder dosage forms can be legally marketed. Sunscreen in all other dosage forms, including wipes, towelettes, body washes, and shampoos, cannot be legally marketed without further FDA action (2)
In conclusion, protecting your skin from sun damage is a conscious effort at self-care. Enjoy the sun responsibly!
(1) https://www.epa.gov/radtown/ultraviolet-uv-radiation-and-sun-exposure
(2) https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/tips-stay-safe-sun-sunscreen-sunglasses
