It’s all too easy to forget. It’s at the bottom of your beach bag, or you left it behind in the car. That pesky lotion you know you need to use but just keep seeming to forget to apply: sunscreen. Well, we’re here to remind you once and for all why sun protection is so important – and how to be sun smart. Because once you know the harm the sun can do to your skin, you won’t forget your sunscreen again!
Why Do We Need Sun Protection?
First off, let’s get the facts straight. While we all love a nice, tanned glow, there are other ways to get glowing skin than from sun exposure! Not only does sun play a major part in skin ageing (an estimated 90 percent of skin aging is caused by the sun!) but overexposure to ultraviolet (UVB) light is the main cause of non-melanoma skin cancer.
Artificial sources of UV light, such as sunlamps and tanning beds, also increase your risk of developing skin cancer, as does repeated sunburn. Sun damage either by the sun or artificial sources of light,will make your skin more vulnerable to non-melanoma skin cancer.
WHAT’S THE DEAL WITH UV Light?
The sunlight that reaches us is made up of two harmful rays; short wave ultraviolet B (UVB) and long wave ultraviolet A (UVA). While the UVB rays are mainly responsible for sunburn and reddening, the UVA rays, which penetrate deeper into the skin, play a major part in skin ageing. Therefore you need protection from both!
It doesn’t matter if it’s sunny, cloudy, or raining - UVA rays are present during all daylight hours and throughout the year. They even penetrate glass!
In fact, up to 90% of visible skin changes are the result of sun damage. Studies also show that adequate protection from UV radiation can lower the risk of skin cancer.
I FEEL LIKE A TAN MAKES ME LOOK GLOWY AND FRESH, DO I REALLY HAVE TO USE A HIGH SPF?
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and the number of a specific sunscreen refers to its ability to deflect and absorb UVB rays. The UVA Protection Factor (UVAPF) is equal to at least one third of the SPF value and is represented by a circled UVA logo. 80% of your skins ageing is lifestyle related, and sun is the biggest contributor to that number. A photo-aged skin (damaged by repeated exposure to UV radiation) will have a leathery saggy appearance, pigment disorders, less elasticity and moisturisation. So yes, protect your face and, don’t turn to the sun for that glow!
SUNSCREEN VS VITAMIN D – CAN I HAVE BOTH?
Yes you can! If you always make sure to be outside 15 minutes a day, you will get the daily recommended dosage of Vitamin D no matter if you’re wearing sunscreen or not. The sunscreen won’t limit your Vitamin D intake it will only prevent UV rays from damaging your skin. So, don’t skip sunscreen for the benefit of Vitamin D!
EDITOR’S TIP
EU has one of the strictest regulations for sunscreen protectors in the world and Oriflame proudly follows those regulations and guidance for all our products. So, make sure to always protect your skin properly to keep it healthy – enjoy the sun and stay smart at the same time!
