Here Comes The Sun: How To Protect Your Skin
It’s safe to say we have a special affinity with the classic British summer. As soon as the sun shines (or tries to peep behind the clouds, we’re in the UK, let’s be real), we head to the seaside, light our barbecues and gather in pub gardens to soak up the rays.
It’s a rite of passage that signifies summer is well and truly here. And with temperatures set to top 30 degrees this weekend, our bikinis are at the ready.
But while we all know SPF is essential in protecting us against UV damage and premature ageing, are there any common mistakes we make that compromise our skin’s protection against the sun?
Dr Toni Philips, Group Clinical Director at Destination Skin, talks to Belle about how best to look after your skin in the heat this summer.
Get to know your SPF: SPF 50 will protect your skin just as well as SPF 100, so you’re best off keeping it simple. An SPF50 is ideal, but an SPF 30+ will also do a good job. What is most important is to make sure you are checking the sunscreen formulation to see how long it is meant to last and how often it suggests reapplying.
Don’t forget about blue light: The sun emits blue light which has longer wavelengths and penetrates deeper than UVA and UVB rays. This means that it can damage collagen and elastin which support the skin. Blue light from the sun can also cause hyperpigmentation – an over production of brown pigments in the skin. Look out for a sunscreen that contains both UVA, UVB, visible light and near infra-red filters which provide extra protection.
When we say SPF is important all day long, we really mean it: UVA rays from the sun, which have longer wavelengths, are present all year round whereas UVB rays, with shorter wavelengths, are the strongest in summer. It is advised to avoid direct sun exposure, spend time in the shade between 11am and 3pm and wear protective clothing, including a big sunhat!
Always check the bottle: Try and make sure your SPF is non-comodogenic (does not block pores) before you use it on your face as well as body, and you should never use SPF that’s out of date, as it will be ineffective and not protect you from sun damage.
Avoid the ‘perfect storm’ of clogged pores and red spots: The combination of sweat, heat, sun cream and pollution that our complexion faces in the summer is a perfect environment for bacteria or yeast to overgrow on our skin, which cause red acne spots, clog pores and cause a build-up of oils (sebum) in oil glands. Regular cleansing, especially if you’re exercising in the heat, can help avoid this. The right cleanser for your skin type will remove excess oil, gently exfoliate dead skin cells and debris, whilst leaving the skin barrier intact and will not interfere with the hydration levels.
If you’re actively sunbathing, remember this: It is recommended you apply 1oz of SPF over your skin at least 20 minutes prior to sun exposure – and remember to top up every 2-3 hours, especially if like being in the water.
