Some sunshine is good for us – we all need a good dose of Vitamin D each day, but how much is too much and which sunscreens are best to protect us all year round? What should you be doing to protect your skin from these harmful rays, and help prevent premature aging caused by the sun? Museo Skin + Spa are here to help.
What people don’t realise is about 90% of skin ageing can be attributed to sun damage so if you can get into the habit of using a sunscreen daily you will be cutting down on the development of skin cancer as well as premature ageing of the skin.
To select the best sunscreen for your skin and your lifestyle, you first need to understand about the sun’s rays. There are two types of ultraviolet rays – UVA and UVB – that we need to protect our skin from.
UVA rays are longer rays, accounting for 90-95% of UV radiation that reaches the earth. They can penetrate through clouds (which is why you can often get the worst sunburns on overcast days) and penetrate glass (driving arm anyone?) which means they can be doubly dangerous. These UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin, reaching the deepest layers and are the primary cause of tanning.
UVB rays are the shorter rays occurring between April and October and are strongest between 10-4pm. UVB rays make up 5-10% of solar radiation and damage surface epidermal cells and easily burn the skin – think on a hot summers day and you have only been outside for 20 minutes unprotected. UVB does not penetrate glass, which means if you are inside you are generally safe.
Broad spectrum sunscreen protects against UVA and UVB rays which both cause skin cancer by damaging skin cells and altering DNA as well as causing premature ageing to the skin. It is really important that you consider using an SPF not just when you are going to the beach but to wear a broad spectrum sunscreen every single day. Did you know that an SPF (sun protection factor) sunscreen only protects against UVB rays? A broad spectrum sunscreen is needed to ensure the best protection for your skin.
Now there are 2 sunscreen options to choose from- chemical versus physical.
Physical sunscreens are made of particles that reflect the sun’s rays away from the skin. Two are approved by the FDA – Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide. Both offer protection against UVA and UVB rays
Chemical sunscreens lay on top of the skin and absorb UV rays before they reach the skin. The negative of chemical sunscreens is that some are made of free radicals and can, therefore, contribute to skin ageing. They can also cause irritation, allergic reactions and possible long-term health effects – so make sure to speak to a health professional before use.
Museo sunscreens available:
O Cosmedics Mineral Pro SPF 30+
A daily moisturiser that provides broad spectrum UVA & UVB protection. Contains 20% Zinc Oxide
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Medicalia MEDI-PROTECT SUNSCREEN SPF 30 UVA/UVB (FACE & BODY)
Formulated for post-operative skin protection, this unique formula combines a base of the best-selected silicones and most effective UV ray blocking agents with micronized Vitamin E. Contains 2.8% Titanium Dioxide 2% Cyclopentasiloxane. Physical and chemical block.
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Pevonia Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 30
This silky-smooth, greaseless homogenized emulsion protects your skin from the sun¹s harmful UVA & UVB rays. Enriched with Vitamins E, C, and B. Contains Zinc Oxide 8%, Octinoxate 7.5%, Octisalate 5%, Titanium Dioxide 1.5%.
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Pevonia YouthRenew™ Tinted Cream SPF 30
Surpassing standard BB and CC creams, introducing the latest innovation – YouthRenew™ Tinted Cream SPF 30, an extraordinary 5 in 1 Daily Defense Cream! It contains Titanium Dioxide 7% Octinoxate 4%
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If you’re ready to dedicate to your skin and protect it long term from the harmful effects of the sun without changing your lifestyle completely, the team at Museo are here to help. We can help you choose the best sunscreen for your lifestyle from the range above and offer a complete skin checkup for you to discuss the best ways to prepare and protect your skin long term. Book an appointment with one of our skin specialists today to ensure your skin stays soft and supple into the future.