Don't Skip the SPF

It’s finally summer, and with warmer weather comes more time outside enjoying the sun, and while applying an SPF might seem like a chore, the truth is your skin depends on it. As an esthetician, one of the most important conversations I have with my clients is about sun protection. While we all love a healthy glow and spending time outdoors, understanding the effects of UV exposure and how to protect your skin properly is one of the most essential steps to keeping your skin youthful, healthy, and radiant. Let’s break down why UV exposure matters, what it does to your skin (including your barrier), and how to choose an SPF product that protects your skin without causing irritation or breakouts. 

Understanding the different types of UV rays and how they affect your skin is the first step to protecting your skin and barrier. The sun emits ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and there are three different types: UVA, UVB, and UVC. Only two of the types reach our skin- UVA and UVB- but both can compromise your skin in different ways. UVA rays are known as the “aging” rays. These rays have the longest wavelengths and can penetrate deep into the dermis layer. These types of rays are present all year round, even on cloudy days and through windows. They break down collagen and elastin, trigger fine lines and wrinkles, and can weaken the skin’s barrier by breaking down lipids. UVB rays are the “burning” rays. These rays are shorter in wavelength but are more intense than UVA rays. These rays affect the epidermis and can cause sunburn. 

Your skin barrier is your skin’s natural defense system– it’s made up of lipids, cells, and moisture that protect against irritants, bacteria, and dehydration. Increased UV exposure can break down your skin barrier causing increased sensitivity, rough texture, and flare-ups of chronic conditions such as eczema and rosacea, while also weakening your barrier’s defense against pollution and toxins. In simple terms, UV rays are punching tiny holes in your skin’s armor and that’s why wearing an SPF is crucial to the health of your skin.

If you’re noticing signs of aging, dullness, or dry, rough skin, sun exposure is likely a big factor. Picking an SPF product that’s effective and skin-friendly can be confusing, and they are not all created equal. Here are some recommendations to follow when selecting an SPF that will work for your skin type. 

• Look for Broad-Spectrum Protection: This means that the SPF will protect you against both UVA and UVB rays. 

• Choose SPF 30 or higher: SPF 30 has been proven to block 97% of UVB rays. Choosing a higher SPF can increase the percentage of the rays blocked, but no SPF is guaranteed to block all. 

• Pick Skin-Friendly Ingredients: Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide are safe for sensitive skin types as they are the most gentle ingredients found in an SPF. These ingredients sit on the surface of the skin and reflect UV rays, without causing irritation or breakouts.  

At the end of the day, protecting your skin from UV damage is one of the best things you can do for the health of your skin. Sun damage is one of the leading causes of early aging, dullness, and skin barrier disruption. But the good news is that it is one of the most preventable. Think of applying SPF as a long-term investment in everything you’ve worked toward in your skincare journey. Glowy, even-toned, calm skin starts with protection. Every single day. If you’re not sure which SPF is best for your skin or would like to be proactive in your skin’s health, make an appointment with your esthetician to talk about ways to protect your skin. You and your skin deserve it!

~Danielle Smethers, Licensed Esthetician

To schedule an appointment with Danielle, please call 563-207-8932 or click here.