SUN PROTECTION
PROTECT YOURSELF AND ENJOY THE OUTDOORS
Sun Protection
Even though the weather is cooling down this time of year and we’re not exposing our skin as much as during the summer, we still need to be mindful of the amount of UV exposure we’re receiving in Colorado. We, at Radiance Medi Spa want you to enjoy the outdoors however, it’s important to do so safely.
While we all love the sun and benefit from the vitamin D it provides, there is a trade off. Fun in the sun exposes our body to radiation such as UVA and UVB. UVA rays exposure can lead to premature aging of the skin (think wrinkles and age spots) and UVB are primarily responsible for sunburn. (2)
In addition to unwanted premature aging of the skin and painful sunburns, exposure can also lead to skin cancer. Skin Cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. (1) Here in Colorado incidence of Melanoma, a particularly aggressive form of skin cancer, was 21.2 per 100,000 people and in El Paso County specifically the rates are slightly higher at 27.5 per 100,000 people. With 175 reported deaths related to Melanoma. (3)
So how can we protect ourselves while enjoying the outdoors? Best to stay inside during peak exposure times such as 10am and 2pm.
I know, these are prime hours for actives right?!
Since we’ll all be outside, the best bet is trying to cover up with clothing that has UPF rating. For the skin that is exposed, we recommend applying a physical sunscreen containing zinc oxide and titanium oxide as these prevent UVA and UVB radiation from penetrating the skin as compared to chemical sunscreens that acts as a filter on the skin. Physical sunscreens are also better for sensitive skin, not likely to clog pores, and better at decreasing redness compared to chemical sunscreens.
Whatever your sunscreen of choice just ensure it has an SPF rating between 15-50. As there no proven benefit for SPF ratings greater than 50 according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
Call to set up a free consult and discuss skin protective products available at Radiance Medi Spa.
Remember when it comes to sun protection:
“An ounce is worth a pound of cure” - Benjamin Franklin
References