Sunscreen is the most important skincare product – if you are lucky enough to have always worn an SPF – chances are your skin is showing the benefits. Look for a broad-spectrum SPF, one who’s primary function is to protect again UV, as opposed to a foundation or moisturiser with some SPF.
SPF helps prevent skin cancers. The three most common types of skin cancer are basal cell skin cancer, squamous cell skin cancer and melanoma. UV radiation is the top risk factor causing these skin cancers. Consistent, adequate protection from the sun’s UV rays helps lower your risk, which is why it’s important to apply sunscreen every day.
Sunscreen prevents premature skin ageing. The triggers of the aging process are divided into two categories: intrinsic ageing (influenced by genetics) and extrinsic ageing (induced by chronic exposure to the sun’s radiation, pollution, chemicals and other environmental factors). UV radiation causes the premature breakdown of collagen and elastin in skin, resulting in fine lines and wrinkles. It also damages pigment-producing cells called melanocytes, resulting in the overproduction of melanin causing hyperpigmentation. The sun’s ultraviolet radiation is responsible for an estimated 93% of visible signs of ageing. Regular use of sunscreen allows you to enjoy smooth, youthful-looking skin in to older years.
Sunscreen reduces the risk of hyperpigmentation. A common skin condition caused by sun exposure, hyperpigmentation is visible on your skin as patches of darker skin due to changes in the production of melanin, which gives skin its colour. People with darker skin are naturally more susceptible to hyperpigmentation.
Sunscreen prevents inflammation of the skin. UV radiation damages the DNA of immune-protecting cells, leading to inflammation and free radical damage to skin and within the body. Immune suppression decreases our body’s ability for these cells to protect us from skin cancers and other illnesses. The immune system plays a vital role in maintaining the health of all the tissues of the body, so healthy skin is vital to overall health.
Sunscreen prevents sun sensitivity.
How to Wear Sunscreen
It is important to know what type of sunscreen to use. There are several to choose from - physical sunscreen with an SPF of 30. Unlike chemical sunscreens, physical sunscreens are made of mineral-based ingredients, such as zinc oxide and titanium oxide (some also contain iron oxide, which protects against blue light) that sit on top of the skin, reflecting the UV rays away from the skin.
Remember, sunscreen should be applied at least 30 minutes before going out, and every two hours, if you are outdoors exposed to direct sunlight. SPF does not protect against You should also pair it with a topical vitamin C serum, which can help combat exposure to free radicals and ultraviolet light, slow the signs of ageing and brighten your complexion. Combining vitamin C serum and broad-spectrum sunscreens that protect well against UVA rays has been shown to be more effective at neutralising free radical damage from sun exposure than just using sunscreen alone
In other words, when sunscreen and vitamin C are applied together, their benefits multiply
According to this study from 2013 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3673383/ Sunscreens block only 55 % of the free radicals produced by UV exposure. To optimise UV protection, it is important to use sunscreens combined with a topical antioxidant. Under laboratory conditions, it has been shown that application of 10% topical vitamin C showed statistical reduction of UVB-induced erythema by 52 % and sunburn cell formation by 40-60%.
What makes Skinceutical Antioxidants superior?
The Duke parameters https://academic.oup.com/asj/article/18/6/468/277337
Dr Pinnell – the founder of SkinCeutical Vitamin C –https://www.skinceuticals.com/drpinnell
As SkinCeuticals founding scientist, Dr. Pinnell changed the face of topical antioxidants with his pivotal research. Their serums are recognised as the gold standard of vitamin C serums because of their superior quality.
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