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Sun Screen, The Forgotten Skin Care Hero?

Posted: Mar 22, 2021

Sunscreen, The Forgotten Skincare Hero

Usually at this time of year we might be looking at booking our summer holidays in some sun-kissed location across the globe. Alas that is not going to be our reality for this year but I think it’s a good time to visit the importance of everyday sun protection, as, even under the grey skies of Ireland, sunscreen should be your number one priority in your skincare routine. In the pharmacy we get lots of questions on sunscreens and I will try to answer some of the most common questions here.

 

I hear a lot about “broad spectrum sunscreen”. What is this and how do I look for this in my sunscreen cream?

Broad spectrum sunscreen is sunscreen that contains filters against both UVA and UVB rays. UVB rays are measured by the SPF factor and UVA rays are measured by a PA+ rating (+ - ++++) or simply with a ring around UVA to indicate it reaches UVA protection standards. Everyone should ensure that they use a sunscreen with both UVA and UVB protection, and the higher the better. Read on to see why…

 

What is the difference between UVA and UVB rays?

A number of ultraviolet (UV) rays are emitted by the sun. UVA rays compromise 95% of the sun rays and are present all year round, even on the cloudiest day of the year. This is one reason why we need year-round protection with sunscreen. These UVA rays penetrate deepest into our skin, well below the surface and can penetrate through glass. These rays cause tanning and cause damage to the skin cells deep into our skin, leading to loss of skin elasticity and causing wrinkles. UVA rays also can cause skin cancer.

UVB rays are the rays we associate with sunshine and heat and are at their greatest in the summer months in Ireland. UVB rays only penetrate the top layer of the skin and cannot penetrate through glass. UVB rays are responsible for sunburn and can cause skin cancers.

 

I have a high SPF in my makeup foundation, isn’t this enough?

The simple answer is no. Everyone should have a dedicated sunscreen as part of their year-round skincare regime. You would need to layer over 10 times the normal amount of foundation on your skin to get the UV protection listed on the label. This goes for SPF in your moisturiser also.

 

How much sunscreen do I need to apply?

The answer is a lot more than you think! You should use a quarter of a teaspoon amount on your face and the same amount on your neck. I would recommend applying the sunscreen as the last product in your skincare regime before you apply any makeup. As you need to apply quite a lot of sunscreen, you should give it a few minutes to absorb before applying make up.

 

That’s all we have time for in this week’s article. Check back in a fortnight’s time as we discuss chemical versus physical sunscreen, Vitamin D absorption with sunscreen and medications causing sun sensitivity.

 

 

How often do I need to re-apply my sunscreen?

So, in an ideal world we would re-apply sunscreen every 2-3 hours for maximum protection and if you are on a sun holiday, this is very important. During an average day, if you work in an indoor environment, one proper application in the morning should see you through. If you are outdoors a lot, are perspiring or swimming, frequent application is a must. Sunscreens are available in many formulations now, even as a light face mist or mineral powder, that can be applied on top of make up if required.

 

But won’t daily use of sunscreen affect my Vitamin D levels?

Yes, it is true that we need UV light to convert the vitamin D to a useable form in our bodies but skincare experts and dermatologists usually agree that you cannot recommend exposing patients to a known carcinogen (UV Light) just to raise vitamin D levels. A daily vitamin D3 supplement will provide your adequate level of vitamin D.

 

 

 

What is the difference between physical and chemical sunscreen and which is best?

Physical sunscreens act as a sunblock, they contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, ingredients deemed safe and effective by the FDA.They sit on the surface of the skin and reflect the sun rays. These are less likely to irritate sensitive skin and can be great for sufferers of sensitive skin conditions such as rosacea, they offer IMMEDIATE sun protection upon application. However, they can appear white or chalky on the skin, are often a thicker, less pleasing consistency, and have a tendency to rub off, needing more frequent applications.

Chemical suncreens, contain ingredients such as avobenzone, and act by absorbing the sun UV rays, protecting the skin cells. These are often of a thinner, easy-to-spread consistency, they sink into the skin and are less likely to rub off. However, they take 20 minutes to work after application and are more likely to cause irritation and burning.

Many sunscreens now use a combination of both types of sunscreen, combining the benefits of easier application with less irritation.

Many sunscreens are formulated with different skin types in mind, ranging from oily to dry or sensitive, so you may have to try a couple to find what works best for your skin.

 

My prescription label has sunburn warning on it, why?

 

Some drugs can cause photosensitivity, for example some antibiotics, some herbal supplements and some topical and oral acne treatments such as Roaccutane.

These drugs can make a person much more sensitive to the sun’s rays, leading to sunburn, rashes and even blisters even after a short period in the sun. People taking these medications need to wear a good sunscreen daily and limit time spent in the sun, sticking to the shade and wearing sunglasses and sunhats for extra protection.

 

So, in summary, the one skincare product that works best as an anti-ageing tool, helps prevent skin cancers and keeps your skin wrinkle free for years to come is your sunscreen. The reality is you need to wear sunscreen every day of the year, come rain or shine.

 

 

 

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