Under the Surface: The Importance of Sun Protection
Approximately 80-90% of skin’s visible signs of premature aging are caused by sun exposure. Also known as photoaging, these pesky signs of aging can be prevented with the right tools and knowledge. We’ve compiled a simple Q&A to help give you the information you need to make educated suncare decisions.
What are the differences between UVA and UVB rays?
You may have heard of UV rays and that they have an effect on your skin. Understanding the different forms of rays is important when researching the right sunscreen for your skin.
- UVA Rays - Longwave rays that penetrate deeper into the dermis. These rays contribute to DNA damage and skin cancer, in addition to being the main culprits of wrinkles and premature aging.
- UVB Rays - These shortwave rays have slightly more energy and are considered burning rays that directly damage DNA. UVB rays are the primary cause of sunburns and skin cancer.
It’s crucial to find a formula that provides broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection. Zinc Oxide is a key ingredient that prevents damage from both UVA and UVB rays, found in several Glo Skin Beauty products.
Why is unprotected sun exposure so harmful for my skin?
Prolonged and unprotected sun exposure causes chemical changes in our skin. These changes include DNA damage, the activation of free radicals, which cause cell damage and the activation of enzymes such as Collagenase. Collagenase breaks down collagen and inhibits the formation of new collagen which can lead to increased wrinkles and loss of elasticity.
What are the visual effects sun damage can have on my skin?
The list of undesirable effects of sun damage includes:
- Dry, rough and damaged skin
- Hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Sagging due to loss of elasticity
- Actinic Keratosis - precancerous, red, scaly patches of skin
This list includes the cosmetic results of photoaging but it’s critical to remember the potentially larger, more serious effect of unprotected sun exposure: skin cancer. Be sure to schedule regular visits with your dermatologist and always investigate suspicious moles and discoloration.
What is the difference between a chemical and mineral sunscreen?
There are 17 active ingredients currently approved by the FDA for use in sunscreens. Both chemical and mineral sunscreens are effective in providing broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection; some cover UVB while others are UVA.
- Chemical Sunscreen - These sunscreens form a thin, protective layer on the surface of the skin and are effective against UV radiation by absorbing it before penetrating the skin.
- Mineral Sunscreen - These sunscreens, commonly referred to as physical, remain on top of the skin and reflect UV rays away from the skin, functioning similarly to a mirror.
Glo Skin Beauty offers multiple formulas that have a combination of active sunscreen ingredients to provide broad spectrum, face suncare protection. Choosing the right one for you is a matter of personal preference and skin type.