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What's your sunscreen face like?
Seriously, what’s your sunscreen face like? It’s a bit like your ‘game face’, or your RBF, if you have one (apparently we all do!).
You might think that having a sunscreen face is crazy, or at best – a little peculiar. And, I’ll give you that! But it’s a valid question because if you’re not using sunscreen on your face, it’s going to be very obvious as the years roll by.
There are two sides to the sunscreen face coin. On the inside, you might fall into the sub 30 years old category and be pretty happy with your skin right now. Or, perhaps you’re at the 30+ stage and have started to notice signs of ageing creeping in, including some sun damage.
But it runs much deeper than this. In this blog, we’ll look at the importance of having a ‘sunscreen face’, and why it’s the best anti ageing product you’ll ever invest in!
It's all about the rays!
In the UK, we are more conditioned to apply sunscreen in the summer, to protect from sunburn. But, there are two types of UV rays you need to be aware of.
The easiest way to remember them is like this: UVA = A is for ageing, and UVB = B is for burning. You’re exposed to UVB when the sun is shining (even if it’s cloudy/hazy), and UVA rays, you’re exposed to 365 days a year, come rain or shine.
UVB rays are the ones that are more commonly associated with skin cancer, and the ones that cause the lobster glow, after sun exposure.
UVA rays are the WORST, as they cause long-term damage to your skin. They penetrate deeper into the skin, causing premature aging, wrinkles, and age spots. Overexposure to UVA rays can also increase the risk of skin cancer, it’s not just UVB.
UVA rays are responsible for around 80% of premature ageing. So, just by getting your sunscreen face on, you’re not only protecting your skin, you are ensuring you have younger-looking skin, for longer (hooray!).
Sunscreen face, what and when?
There are different types of sunscreen available, but it’s important to make sure you pick one with a minimum factor of 30, broad-spectrum (protects against UVA and UVB rays). Look for a 4/5-star rating, to ensure it has a high level of protection.
And it’s not just a ‘one and done’ affair when it comes to your sunscreen face! You need to reapply your sunscreen every 2-3 hours, especially on sunnier days.
There are different types of formulas out there, which we will cover in just a minute. But an important note is that whilst some moisturisers and makeup products contain sunscreen, relying solely on them for sun protection is not enough. The purpose of a moisturiser is to hydrate, whereas sunscreen’s purpose is to protect the skin from the harmful effects of UV rays.
Moisturisers that contain sunscreen are unlikely to provide enough coverage or protection, so it is always advisable to use a separate sunscreen and reapply frequently.
Different types of sunscreen.
There are two different types of sunscreen. Firstly, you have chemical sunscreens, and they work by absorbing UV rays and converting them into heat that is then released from the skin.
Then there are physical sunscreens (also referred to as natural sunscreens), and these work by creating a physical barrier on the skin that reflects and scatters UV rays. These sunscreens use minerals such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as their active ingredients.
Physical/natural sunscreens are a great option, if you have sensitive skin, breakout-prone skin, or prefer not to use chemicals. They are also effective immediately on application. One of the drawbacks is, they are not as water-resistant as chemical sunscreens.
Chemical sunscreens, tend to be more water-resistant than physical/natural sunscreens, so they are a better option if you are in and out of the water constantly. Chemical sunscreens are often a source of irritation for sensitive skin, so if sunscreen is a known trigger for your skin, then consider using a natural sunscreen.
Sunscreen recommendations.
I go into a lot more detail in my video, about the different types of sunscreen, and how to choose one that’s right for you. It’s got subtitles, so you don’t need to have the sound on!
My preference is the AlumierMD skincare sunscreens, which are natural sunscreens. They suit my skin really well and are naturally hydrating, so I don’t need to use a moisturiser during the day.
High street brands to look at are La Roche Posay and Vichy. As with Alumier, they also do tinted sunscreens too (different from moisturisers and makeup with sunscreen in – avoid those!).
If you would like to know more about AlumierMD skin care, then you can click HERE. You can also book a consultation with me, and we can go through your skincare routine.
Suncreen face, get yours on!
I really hope that you found my blog on ‘sunscreen face’ helpful. And, I hope you can see the benefits of wearing your sunscreen, all year round.
If you would like some help with your skin, then please get in touch. I know it can be confusing, with all of the different advice available out there. The truth is, that there isn’t a ‘one size fits all’ answer, as so many factors affect your skin. I always work with my clients from the inside out, and outside in – to ensure you get the best possible results.
I offer remote services, as well as clinical treatments. My aesthetics clinic is based in Alton, Hampshire. I’m on the Hampshire/Surrey border, just 15 minutes from Basingstoke and Farnham, and I’m at the end of a direct train line from London Waterloo.
If you have any questions, please let me know.
And, if you haven’t taken my Skin Quiz yet, then click on the button below to take it. It’s fun, takes less than 4 minutes, and you’ll get immediate access to personalised results.
