Most realize that wearing sunscreen is vital during the summer months. However, the reality is that wearing sunscreen all year round is a must – not just during the summer months. Read on to learn more about the significance of sunscreen and the high-quality options available.
Sunscreen helps to protect our skin against premature aging and skin cancer. It also protects us from sun damage on the chest, face, and any other part of our bodies.
It’s common for people to wear sunscreen during the summer, though, if you think about it, the sun is visible all year round. Therefore, as Houston-based Aesthetician Ashley Darbonne points out, “it’s vital to be very diligent about sunscreen to protect against sun exposure every month of the year.”
We turn to Darbonne to provide additional insights about sunscreen, SPF levels, and the types of sunscreen to consider wearing.
What are the benefits of sunscreen?
Darbonne emphasizes that sunscreen is essential for everyone. Regardless of where you live in the world, the sun shines off and on in most places throughout the year, whether it’s summer, winter, a cooler climate, or a warmer climate. Thus, no matter the time of year or climate, sunscreen plays a vital role in protecting us against UVA and UVB rays that the sun gives off. Sunscreen protects us against the following:
- Premature aging caused by the sun and sun-damaged skin
- Inflammation caused by damaged and irritated skin
- Developing skin cancer
Expert insight: For those with acne, wearing sunscreen can help prevent inflammation and hyperpigmentation that can worsen acne. Seek out a sunscreen option suitable for acne-prone skin, like SkinMedica’s Mineral Shield Clear.
Why is sunscreen important to prevent sun damage all year round?
“It’s important to wear sunscreen all year around because UVA and UVB rays are present all year around,” shares Darbonne, “UVA rays can penetrate clouds and glass. UVB rays are intensified by reflective surfaces, like snow or ice, and can be more dangerous at higher altitudes.”
And it doesn’t matter who you are, or what age – sunscreen is important for everyone.
Darbonne states sunscreen is vital for all skin types.
“Getting sun exposure is more than just getting a tan, and a tan does not protect you against the damaging effects of UVA or UVB rays. UVA is more related to the aging aspect, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and loss of elasticity. UVB rays are typically the cause of skin cancer, though both UVA and UVB will contribute to these risks, which is why it’s important to look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen. Tinted sunscreens can also provide more protection, as they protect against visible and blue light, known to worsen melasma.”
What SPF level is best?
As Darbonne pointed out, you want a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect against both UVA and UVB rays.
“It’s recommended to use an SPF 30 or higher. An SPF 50 vs SPF 30 provides only a small percentage of difference in coverage. Reapply your sunscreen every two hours that you are in the sun. And a higher SPF does not equate to longer coverage time.”
And how much sunscreen is enough to put on for full face coverage?
Darbonne recommends using two finger lengths of sunscreen for complete coverage on the face.
Expert tip: Take extra precautions regarding retinol and the sun. If you wear any retinol products, it can increase your sensitivity to the sun. Be extra diligent in wearing sunscreen anytime you’re exposed to the sun.
What are some high-quality sunscreen options?
Using high-quality, medical-grade skincare products is the optimal choice. SkinMedica is a medical-grade skincare line that offers products for a variety of skin conditions. Elta MD is another high-quality sunscreen product.
“SkinMedica has three mineral sunscreen options. Mineral Shield in tinted and non-tinted options and Mineral Shield Everyday clear, which is a little bit more mattifying, making it a really great option for those that do have really oily or acneic skin. Elta MD is also a fan favorite and comes in different options, as well. ” shares Darbonne.
SkinMedica also offers an anti-aging sunscreen product in tinted and untinted forms, the Total Defense and Repair SPF 34 and Total Defense and Repair SPF 34 (Tinted).
Other treatment options to reduce sun damage
For those who are seeing sun damage on various areas of their bodies, there are some treatments that can help to repair the skin. Some of these options include:
Schedule a skin care consultation
Sunscreen is essential year-round to shield against harmful UV rays. From broad-spectrum to mineral formulas, discover the best types to keep your skin safe and radiant by scheduling an appointment with DermaTouch RN or your local skin treatment clinic. Likewise, if you’re looking to repair sun damage and the signs of aging, schedule a skin care consultation to determine the best options for your needs.
Schedule your skin treatment consultation at DermaTouch RN online 24/7 or by calling (281) 206-0013 (Houston) or (210) 951-3520 (San Antonio).
Ashley Darbonne, Aesthetician
Ashley received her licensure as an aesthetician in 2018 and immediately started expanding her knowledge and experience by obtaining additional certifications including IPL, SkinPen, and holds a license as a Senior Laser Technician with the State of Texas. Seeing improvement in the health and appearance of her clients’ skin, as well as the boost of confidence they gain is what pushes her to perfect her skillset. She loves working in a field that is results-oriented and is thankful to have a career she is passionate about. Prior to 2018, she worked in the medical field.
DermaTouch RN offers minimally invasive and non-invasive treatments for men and women in Houston, San Antonio, Spring and Cypress, as well as the surrounding areas of Texas. We are the largest aesthetic practice in the Houston area, and all of our medical spa treatments are performed by a team of nurse practitioners, registered nurses, and aestheticians who receive continuing education to remain abreast of emerging treatments that benefit our patients. We invite you to learn more about our office before your consultation.
