Sun exposure throughout the years produces unstable molecules called free radicals, which cause inflammation, damage skin cells, and ultimately increase the risk of developing skin cancer. Although we cannot see free radicals, what we do see is the resulting hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, and fine lines and wrinkles. This process is known as photo aging. And the best defense against photo aging is.....you guessed it, sunscreen!
If you don't already wear sunscreen daily, it's time to start! There are so many formulations available now, including lightweight and oil free for oily and blemish-prone skin, and antioxidant-rich for anti-aging benefits. Just be sure the formulation is broad spectrum, which means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays (UVA rays are responsible for causing wrinkles and aging the skin and UVB rays are responsible for burning and causing skin cancer).
Did you know there is a difference between sunblock and sunscreen? Sunblock contains active ingredients that are able to reflect sun rays. These "physical blockers" are Zinc oxide and Titanium dioxide and can be recognized by the purple-ish, white tint seen during application. Sunscreen, on the other hand, contains chemicals as active ingredients that absorb or filter sun rays, such as Avobenzone, Oxybenzone, and Octinoxate. Physical sunblocks tend to be better tolerated by most skin types because the chemical filters in chemical sunscreens can be irritating, especially to sensitive skin.
Keep in mind: only five to ten minutes of UVB exposure between the hours of 11am and 3pm is sufficient for vitamin D synthesis. After that, lather on a broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 15-30 (the higher the sun protection factor, the more chemicals in the formulation) and remember to reapply every 90 minutes!
Safe sunning!
xo, Brittany
Thanks for sharing about the sunscreen effectiveness... I did not know that a SPF 30 is the highest you should go.
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