Sunscreen 101
Skin care experts say that sun damage is the leading cause of premature aging to the skin. By exposing the skin to the suns’ harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, the texture and appearance of the skin changes. UV rays, an invisible form of radiation that penetrates and changes the structure of skin cells, are present year-round. UVA rays penetrate the deep layers of the skin, are cumulative, and are the primary cause of premature aging. UVB rays impact the surface layer of the skin, cause sunburn, and can contribute to skin cancer. Beauty Beat reiterates the importance of wearing a sunscreen everyday.
SPF
SPF stands for “sun protection factor” and protects the skin from UVB rays. The SPF number states how long you can stay outside without burning as opposed to not wearing sunscreen. For example, an SPF of 15 allows a person to stay out in the sun 15 times longer without burning, and filters approximately 92% of UVB rays. An SPF of 30 protects against approximately 97% of rays while an SPF of 50 filters approximately 98% of UVB rays. Although the protection becomes incrementally smaller as the number increases past 30, if you are as anti-aging as Beauty Beat is, grab the 50 and protect the extra percent!
Broad Spectrum Sunscreen
Unprotected sun exposure causes premature aging to the skin, and increases the risk for developing skin cancer. The effects of sun damage, also referred to as Photodamage, are cumulative and worsen over time. Evidence of damage becomes apparent as we age, and some tell-tale signs include wrinkling, brown spots, sunken skin, broken capillaries, and a rough or “leathery” texture. However, no matter how much damage you have knowingly (or unknowingly) inflicted, there is still hope! Starting to use a Broad Spectrum sunscreen everyday is truly the best defense against anti-aging. Sunscreen has been shown to be the one ingredient that truly underscores anti-aging claims. Importantly, a “broad spectrum sunscreen” will shield the skin from both ultraviolet rays. All sunscreens protect against UVB rays, but only a broad spectrum will protect against both. Experts recommend using a broad spectrum sunscreen, which protects the skin from both UVA and UVB rays, everyday.
To find a broad spectrum sunscreen, look for products that contain ingredients such as Mexoryl, Parsol 1789 (Avobenzone), Titanium Dioxide, or Helioplex. Sunscreens need to be applied 20-30 minutes prior to going out. This enables the chemicals to soak into the skin and form a layer of protection. One final note, check the product for its recommended frequency of application as well as its expiration date. Unlike the state of our skin (hopefully!), sunscreens typically have a shelf life.
The blog was very informative as usual. I look forward to seeing what Jacqueline has to say most days. I plan to check MBB before making any skin care purchase. Good tip about needing sunblock all year. I plan to recommend your website to all my friends and family. Barbara.
posted on October 17, 2007 at 1:34 pm