AUSSIE SUMMERS ARE HARSH ON OUR COMPLEXIONS, BUT THERE ARE WAYS TO COMBAT THE DAMAGE…
Australia has one of highest rates of skin cancer in the world and most of us are acutely aware of the damaging ageing effects the sun has on us. But sunscreens can also damage and age our skin. So what should we do?
Sun damage is a function of cumulative time in the sun and intensity of the ultraviolet radiation (ie sun intensity). You can get accurate advise on the ultraviolet radiation (UV) index for your location from arpansa.gov.au
Some sun exposure is healthy, we need ultraviolet light to synthesis Vitamin D, but you only need about 15 minutes a day of low/moderate exposure to meet most of your needs. If you have skin that tans and doesn’t burn easily then you can probably also tolerate some low to moderate sun exposure with out sun protection for short periods of time. Sun damage is a function of cumulative time in the sun and intensity of the ultraviolet radiation (ie sun intensity), so you won’t necessarily need sun protection if you’re only out for short periods.
If you are going to be out and about for any length of time when the UV index if moderate to high then you’re best to consider sun protection, the best type is a broad hat and clothing as it doesn’t require applying any chemicals to your skin and provides great protection. However it isn’t always practical and often we need to use a sunscreen, there are two broad categories of sunscreen; chemical barrier and physical barrier creams. Physical barrier creams work best to prevent sun damage and ageing as they block a broader spectrum of UV light, typically you would want 10-20% zinc oxide or titanium dioxide in your barrier cream.
However sunscreens can dry and irritate your skin, so ensure you remove them with a gentle face cleanser as soon as you get out of the sun as leaving them on all day and sleeping in it can cause damage to your skin that can take days to recover from.
Even with all best intentions, wearing hats, using sun screen, avoiding the middle of the day out side, our summers take a toll on our skin and its a good time of year to have a few extra visits to your dermal therapist for some tender loving care.
Sunscreens we love that won’t damage your skin:
Civona Dermal UV Protect
Optimal cutting edge DNA repair & protection, skin rejuvenation, wrinkle reduction, lightening & hydration. Infuses skin with technologically advanced biomimetic peptide, potent vitamins, anti-oxidants, natural moisturising factors & lipids. Compounded with platinum calibre Zinc 18% & Titanium Dioxide18% for ageless skin. This vital nourishing, tightly knitted mesh calms & guards against premature ageing, creating a physical barrier to UV ray absorption. The free radical cascade induced by extreme radiation is inhibited. Complete youth restoration complex with superior, silky feel.
Replenix Sheer Physical Sunscreen Cream SPF50+
Formulated with anti-aging antioxidants like green tea, reservatrol, vitamin C and Co-Q10. It offers the best physical sun protectors so your skin will stay healthy. The formula is lightweight and residue-free. It is also free of nano particles and it uses the latest technology in micronized zinc oxide.
Revision Intellishade® TruPhysical SPF45
A breakthrough daily moisturizer with over 20 anti-aging ingredients plus 100% all-mineral sunscreen that leaves the skin
instantly glowing and appearing more youthful and brighter over time. A proprietary blend of 3 bioavailable peptides, botanical extracts, and antioxidants help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, helps skin appear firm and lifted while providing antioxidant benefits against environmental stressors with groundbreaking 100% all-mineral technology. Provides broad-spectrum UV protection. Powerhouse ingredients THD Ascorbate (Vitamin C), the most potent and stable form of Vitamin C, Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG), the most powerful antioxidant of all green tea catechins and Ubiquinone (Coenzyme Q10), help to brighten and even skin tone and provide superior antioxidant protection.
Osmosis +MD Protect 30ml
Ultra Sheer Protective Moisturizer suitable for all skin types.
This non-nano, coated, zinc-oxide based sunscreen offers sheer, long-lasting coverage. Great for all ages, and skin types. Zinc Oxide has the best broad spectrum coverage of all currently available sunscreens. Whether you are planning on going out in the sun or going to the office, you’ll be protected and looking fabulous with this sheer, lightly hydrating formula.
Article featured in Issue 11 of the Coal Coast Magazine – Locals supporting Locals – Read part two of the extended article HERE
