As professional skincare therapists, we see a diverse range of clients at different stages of life and with ever-changing skin concerns. Treatments and products may differ but there’s one essential part of everyone’s skincare routine: SPF.
UVR (ultraviolet radiation) is the common denominator that will negatively affect skin regardless of age, ethnicity, or gender. It’s the number one factor in ageing and hyperpigmentation, so protection of your skin should be a no-brainer – and it’s time to debunk some of the common concerns and myths.
Give it to me, why is it so important?
Skin cancer aside, UVR is the leading cause of premature ageing. Free radical damage destroys collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid in our dermal matrix, resulting in fine lines, volume loss, dryness, and increased wrinkle depth.
Yes, you tell me I need it, but I have it in my makeup.
The SPF in cosmetics does not constitute adequate protection. It’s an added boost to be layered, but not the sole solution. Sunscreen must be used daily as the skin’s top layer of skincare product. SPF performance can be enhanced by high-powered serums, treatments and additional moisturisers creating a stronger antioxidant-rich safety net for the skin.
I can’t wear SPF, I suffer from acne.
Many sufferers tend to believe that the sun is good for their skin so essentially bypassed SPF. It’s time to bust this myth. Sun exposure can amplify the side effects of acne, hyperpigmentation, sensitivity, and redness. The follicle that contains the breakout is already inflamed and may become even more so. This causes it to become thin and break, spreading more bacteria, causing deeper hyperpigmentation resulting in dermal scarring like ice-pick scars. The solution? A formulation that works for you – a mattifying product can often be a game changer.
I’m just too sensitive for sunscreen.
UVR can double pre-existing imbalances of sensitive skin. Genetically struggling to maintain and produce a resilient skin barrier can result in a battle to maintain moisture levels, leading to increased inflammation and reactivity and therefore faster ageing. So, finding a solution to protect the skin will aid in supporting it. There is a solution for you, formulations and ingredients are key!
Dry skin.
Did you know that during summer dry skin can become drier? Any skin condition or type that experiences the onset of dehydration and dryness thanks to UVR destroying essential lipid barriers will need to ramp up the hydration. Look for an SPF with additional hydration factors, its formulation can be the game changer!
Normal/combination skin.
You want skin that appears flawless and healthy, so why would you risk unnecessary damage by not wearing a high-performing sunscreen? As we have said sun protection is key to keeping skin youthful and balanced. We recommend a lightweight multi-tasking product that can be used either by itself or under makeup.
Any final pieces of wisdom?
Did you know that high-shine glosses draw in UV like baby oil? Swap these for a lipstick or balm with SPF. Addicted to the glossy? Layer it on top of the SPF base.
Finding sun protection can be a minefield, especially one that you simply love. Let us take the stress out of your search – we’ve done all the research for you to make it quick and easy to arm yourself with a lifetime of protection. Come in and see, we have the solution waiting for you!
Louise Gray Skin Care.
Shop 2/224 Kepa Rd, Mission Bay
09 528 9010
louisegray.co.nz
