July is UV Safety Awareness Month — and for good reason. With summer in full swing, stocking up on sunscreen is just par for the course. While it’s important to continue this practice and get in the habit of slathering on SPF daily, there are other significant ingredients to consider as well. Up your skincare game with a comprehensive routine that focuses on extra protection. Here’s how:
Use the Right SPF
Not all sunscreens are created equally. Understanding which type works best for you and your skin type is the first step to making sure you get and stay in the habit of using. There are two types of sunscreen: physical and chemical.
Chemical sunscreen:
- Absorbs into the skin and absorbs UV rays
- Water-resistant
- Best for those who are active or who sweat easily
Physical sunscreen:
- Sits on top of the skin and reflects the sun’s rays
- Moisturizing, but harder to blend into the skin
- Best for those with sensitive skin and rosacea
No matter which type you choose, make sure it’s at least SPF 30, and be sure to regularly reapply if you plan on being in the sun for an extended period of time. It might be annoying, but it’s worth the extra protection.
Add Vitamin C and Antioxidants to Your Routine
In addition to sunscreen, protect your skin further against UV damage and free radicals with Vitamin C and other antioxidant products.
Vitamin C-based products have many benefits. They’re hydrating, brightening and can help promote collagen production. However, one of the most significant benefits is that they offer protection against sun damage.
Exposure to pollutants and UV rays can deplete vitamin C levels in the skin leading to aged and photodamaged skin. Application of a vitamin C serum can help protect against free radicals — unstable atoms that damage skin cells — through antioxidants which provide an electron for the harmful atom, rendering them harmless. To simplify the science, just remember vitamin C reduces damage.
Additionally, vitamin C encourages cell turnover, which can help heal and alleviate discomfort associated with sunburns. Topical application of the antioxidant along with other vitamins such as vitamin E can even reduce the UV damage done to the skin following exposure by reducing skin inflammation.
During these hot summer months, it’s important to consider a comprehensive care routine. If you plan to be out in the sun, also plan to protect your skin accordingly. If you’re curious about expanding the products used in your regular rotation, give us a call. We’re here to help you build your best skin ever: (208) 888-0660.