Its that time of year again when we are looking forward to the sun coming out and getting ready for a well-earned summer holiday whether it be in this country or abroad.
Out comes the sunglasses, the beach hat, the picnic basket and if we are lucky maybe a barbecue too, but what should be high on the list is your sun protection cream. A product that is not just for summer but for life (well, all year round)!
There are still a few people out there that only reach for the sun cream on holiday, in a hot country or when the sun is shining bright and the skin is starting to turn pink (or bright red in some cases) but using a broad spectrum sunscreen should be applied every day in spring, summer, autumn and yes winter too, as the sun is always out there.
Some interesting sun facts
The sun radiates ultra-violet light – UVA, UVB and UVC
UVA rays – A is for ageing
UVA penetrates deep into our skin (the dermis layer) where our collagen and elastin can be found. UVA can penetrate through clouds and through glass and is the same strength all year round.
UVB rays – B is for burning
UVB penetrates the surface of our skin (the epidermis layer) and that is why you start to see a pinkness to the skin, developing into redness and eventually a burn. UVB is stronger between 12 and 3pm and in summer months
UVC rays - These are the most powerful rays but luckily, we are protected by the ozone layer.
Sun damage results in lines, wrinkles, sagging skin, pigmentation and sallow skin and is the cause of skin cancer.
Most sun damage to the skin is a result of sunlight on a daily basis, for example shopping, driving, cycling and walking, which is why sun protection should be used all year round.
The sun can be our friend. Sunlight is responsible for the formation of Vitamin D which prevents softening of the bones and is made by the UVB rays, which is why we are sometimes deficient in the winter months. We only need a few minutes of sun each day to generate enough daily Vitamin D.
Top tips – use a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect against both UVA & UVB
Use at least an SPF 15
Check the UVA rating is high, this is measured in stars, 5 being the highest
Apply liberally and allow to dry before sun exposure
Reapply regularly throughout the day
Always reapply after swimming
Skin Management Solutions favourite sunscreen
RAD by Environ, perfect to be used all year round and has added ingredients of antioxidants to protect your skin and combat free radicals
Enjoy the sunshine all year around!
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