When we say ‘sun care’, what springs to mind? Beach-babe sunbathing? Summer holiday suitcases? Well, for Sun Care Awareness Week, we’re here to remind you that sun protection isn’t just for special occasions…
That’s right, all skin types and ethnicities should be calling on their trusty sunscreens, even in the UK and even indoors! To top-up your knowledge on sun awareness, understand UV rays, and to learn how to protect yourself from sun damage… read on!
Why do I need sun protection?
Wearing sunscreen isn’t just about preventing a lobster-like glow after a day at the beach. UV rays from the sun can cause many different types of damage; from sun spots and pigmentation to premature ageing, deepening of scarring and all forms of skin cancer, including melanoma. In fact, a 2013 study showed that 80% of visible ageing is caused by UV exposure, which is why daily SPF is really just an extension of your skincare routine*.
Why should I wear sunscreen all year round?
Although certain types of UV rays are stronger in the summer, causing tanning and burning, others are more present throughout the year. A good way to remember the different types of UV rays is that UVA is associated with ageing, while UVB is associated with skin burning. To protect against UVA and UVB rays you need to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which is why our entire range offers UVA and UVB protection. Plus a whole host of skincare benefits too, from hydration to brightening, so you can reap those rewards all year long.
Seriously though, sunscreen indoors?
That’s right! If you drive, we’re sure you’ve noticed that your tan deepens on the arm closer to the driver-side door of your car, showing that UV rays can work their way through a window. The same applies in the home; although domestic windows block most UVB rays, UVA rays still make their way through and cause skin damage while you’re indoors. What’s more, harsh fluorescent lighting and screen time can also expose our skin to blue light, accentuating the effects of UV damage.
The good news is that our Sun Day Facial UV Defence, Sun Stick and Great Barrier Sun Lotion offer blue light defence in addition to broad-spectrum UV protection.
The bottom line
For optimum protection, we recommend using an SPF of at least 50 every day to minimise the effects of harmful UV rays. Although fairer skin types can be more at risk, anyone and everyone can develop skin cancer, which is why it’s so important that we all protect ourselves.
And don’t forget, daily sunscreen use helps to dramatically reduce premature ageing too. Wear a broad-spectrum SPF daily and your skin will thank you later!
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*Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. Sep 27, 2013.
