Summer is officially here; time to start taking the sun seriously. No matter how you choose to enjoy the outdoors during the upcoming months, learning about how to properly protect yourself from harmful light is imperative to healthy skin.
To start, there are two types of harmful sun UV rays: UVA and UVB.
UVA rays are longer and cause the skin to tan. Unfortunately, these rays also age skin cells and are linked to damage like premature wrinkles. It’s important to recognize that UVA sun damage can be sneaky. You may not feel any pain or discomfort from sunburn, but your skin is still at risk. UVB rays, on the other hand, are shorter and have slightly more energy than UVA rays. These rays cause sunburns.
Both types do considerable damage and research proves a direct link to skin cancer. Additionally, unprotected sun exposure can cause wrinkles, fine lines, brown spots, and dull, congested skin.
However, these aren’t the only harmful rays to look out for: High Energy Visible light, or HEV light and Infrared (IR-A) rays are both destructive too.
HEV light and IR-A are primarily emitted by the sun but additionally are found in a significant number of tech devices such as cell phones, computers, and fluorescent light bulbs.
These are invisible to the eye and particularly damaging in high-dose exposure. IR-A rays have the ability to pierce deeper into the dermis than any UV ray, causing free radicals that damage skin and further accelerate aging.
Know how to protect yourself from detrimental light with the right SPF and know how to choose the right one for you. Choosing SPF over 30 is necessary for adequate routine protection – think going between home, work, the grocery store. SPF 50 or higher is recommended for outdoor activity of more than an hour. Think going for a walk, run, to the beach, a sporting or outdoor event. Regardless of the level of SPF, it should be reapplied after about 90 minutes.
There are two primary types of sunscreen — physical and chemical.
Physical sunscreen sits on top of the skin and reflects the sun’s rays. It’s ideal for those with sensitive skin and pre-existing conditions like melasma, eczema, or rosacea.
Chemical sunscreen, on the other hand, absorbs into the skin and absorbs UV rays. Not only do chemical sunscreens absorb into the skin quicker, but they’re typically water-resistant, making them the ideal choice for anyone active.
With so many factors to consider and understand, It can be tough to keep all of the information straight. Luckily we’re making it easy: The ZO Skin Health line of sun protection contains Triple-Spectrum Protection, fractionated melanin, and patented formula ZOX12. These powerful ingredients allow for advanced protection against HEV light and IR-A rays in addition to UVB and UVA rays.
A few of our favorites are listed below:
ZO® Skin Health Sunscreen + Primer SPF 30: A two-in-one product, this dynamic SPF is perfect for AM application underneath your morning makeup. It’s hydrating and has a smooth matte finish.
ZO® Skin Health Smart Tone Broad-Spectrum SPF 50: For something a bit stronger, look no further. This formula reduces redness and evens skin tone while offering serious protection.
ZO® Skin Health Sunscreen + Powder SPF 40: Powered by Triple-Spectrum Protection® and exclusive ZO® antioxidant technology this superior skin defense offers up serious protection with a hint of advanced color pigments for a polished finish.
Protect your skin this month and every month. Give us a call and we can work with you to develop a tailored skincare routine: (805) 544-5567.
