Everything You Need To Know About Sun Protection
Here in Central Florida, our clients (and staff) love to spend our time outside. As soon as the summer weather hits, you can find us lounging by a pool, hanging out at the beach, or exploring any of the incredible natural springs in our area. There are great benefits to spending time outside. Being outside helps us ground ourselves. It's a great way to stay active, and Vitamin D exposure from sunlight is essential in small doses. But, too much sun exposure can wreak havoc on our skin.
Did you know sun exposure speeds up the appearance of aging?
We all know about the dangers of sun exposure. Too much can lead to skin cancer. But even if you don't get skin cancer, unprotected sun exposure is one of the leading causes of skin aging. In our business, we call it photoaging, and it occurs when regular exposure to the sun actually damages your skin cells. Here are a few of the symptoms of photoaging:
Wrinkles
Loose skin
Sunspots
Redness
Can sun damage be repaired?
Often, yes, it can. We have a number of treatments that address the signs of aging! However, none of them can completely reverse it. Our bodies are aging every day, and it's our job to minimize the effects of aging and prevent further damage.
How can I prevent sun damage?
The most important preventative measure you can take is investing in sun protection. Here are three things you should be doing to protect your skin.
Invest in Sun Coverings
We all love to feel the sun on our skin, but extended exposure can be dangerous. Grab a big hat to shade your face and a breezy shirt or coverup to shade your body. It's worth the investment in the long run. And next time you go to the beach, grab an umbrella or a tent to provide extra shade.
Apply Sunscreen Regularly
We highly recommend investing in a mineral sunscreen. Unlike chemical sunscreens, which are absorbed into the skin, mineral sunscreens sit on top of the skin and act as a shield for the sun's rays. Mineral sunscreens are broad spectrum, meaning they treat against UVA and UVB rays for maximum coverage. Because these products don’t get absorbed, they sometimes leave a white haze. However, modern products have changed to leave less residue, and the protection they offer is well worth it! It's important to remember to reapply sunscreen often, especially if you are swimming or sweating, as both can minimize sunscreen effectiveness.
Wear Daily SPF Moisturizer
Hopefully, you're using a moisturizer on your face each morning before you leave the house. If you're not already, we recommend getting one with a built-in SPF of 30 or higher. An SPF moisturizer won't be enough to protect your face all day in the sun, but it's perfect for daily use when you're in and out of the sun.
While most people around the country are prepping for Fall, Floridians know that summer is still in full swing for at least another month. If you're not already, it's time to consider protecting your skin. Contact us today if you've already experienced sun damage and are ready to treat it. Together, we can craft a treatment plan to have you looking your best in no time.