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Summer is fast approaching which means so is the need to take a little extra care with our skincare. Although sun protection is a product that should be worn all year round it’s even more important in...
Summer is fast approaching which means so is the need to take a little extra care with our skincare. Although sun protection is a product that should be worn all year round it’s even more important in the summer months when the UV rays are stronger.
There is nothing quite like the warm feeling of the sun on your skin after what feels like a long cold winter, but how can we enjoy the sun without damaging our skin?
We recommend always using an SPF of 30 or above when exposed to the sun. The SPF rating on your sunscreen tells you the UVB protection levels only (the suns UV rays which cause sunburn), so it’s important to check the bottle to ensure it’s also providing UVA protection (the suns UV rays that accelerate premature aging). The UVA protection rating is usually displayed as a star rating on the bottle, the higher the star rating the better.
But how often should we reapply? Well, it varies depending on which brand you purchase so always follow the guidance on the bottle, but a minimum of every two hours is usually recommended. If you aren’t applying frequently enough you are probably much less protected than you think. Another point to take note of is the amount of sunscreen you apply can affect your protection levels. Apply enough to cover your whole face and body giving special attention to sensitive areas like you’re under eyes, tops of ears, back of your neck etc.
Shade in every sense of the word is important in summer whether that be seeking more shaded options during the hours where sunlight is at its most prolific between 11am-3pm, or wearing sunglasses to protect the eyes and prevent squinting which is the number one cause of crow’s feet lines around the eyes. Again, make sure to look out for the UV rating when purchasing sunglasses, the higher the number the better the protection for your eyes.
If you want the safest way of achieving the appearance of tanned skin this summer, try sunless tanning products with no sun exposure needed such as fake tan lotion or spray tans to help you achieve your desired glow.
In conclusion aim to strike a balance between enjoying the sun, getting enough vitamin D from the sunlight, and protecting yourself this summer.
31/05/2022
