Safeguard your skin

GERRY CUPIDO

LEAVING home without applying sunblock is as sinful as going to bed with make-up on.

In fact, it’s far more dangerous!

We all know the importance of sunblock and the effects that harsh sun rays have on our skin, yet we still risk permanent skin damage by not covering up.

Here’s a quick reminder why the “never leave home without sunblock” rule is one not be ignored.

It blocks harmful UV rays

With the ozone layer depleting, we are at risk of sun damage from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Sunscreen reduces the severity of sunburn.

The risk of skin cancer is reduced

Skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer but the risk can be reduced greatly by applying sunscreen every day.

Prevents premature ageing of your skin

Overexposure to the harmful UV rays causes skin damage which caused photoageing. Discoloured leathery-looking skin is characteristic of sun damaged skin. The sun causes a breakdown of collagen causing fine lines and sagging. Sunblock helps to maintain even skin tone as well.

Karen Bester, medical trainer at Lamelle Research Laboratories, has these tips for staying safe in the sun this summer.

• Apply sunscreen every day before you go into the sun.

• Even a high SPF does not give you 100% protection, so if you are outdoors and in the sun, re-apply your sun protection products every two to three hours.

• Re-apply sun protection products when you are swimming or sweating (even water resistant sunscreens – they’re water-resistant, not waterproof).

• Remember the tip of your nose and the tips of your ears when applying cream.

• Wear sun-protective clothing – broad-brim hats and long-sleeve shirts.

• Stay out of the sun between noon and 3pm. l

• Drink extra antioxidants if you plan on being in the sun.

• If you are a high risk for burning (very fair skin) or skin cancer (you or a direct family member have received treatment for skin cancer), look for a product that will give you more than just UVA and UVB protection. Finding the perfect sunscreen can often be a daunting task as there are so many different products on the market right now.

New technology sun products can do more then protect skin – they can enhance its appearance and keep it looking dewy and youthful 1

Here are our top five products we’re loving this summer:

1. OVELLE D3

An oral supplement with Pygnogenol and activated Vitamin D, it increases the skin’s resistance to UVA by 80%. It significantly improves the appearance of melasma (hormonal pigmentation), and delays premature ageing.

2. VICHY IDEAL SOLEIL 3-IN-1 TINTED ANTI-DARK SPOTS CARE SPF50+

Unifies instantly thanks to universal mineral pigments. Correct dark spots day after day thanks to its pigmented/ coloured formula enriched in Phe- Resorcinol, an innovative active ingredient against spots and protects from UVB/UVA rays.

3. LA ROCHE-POSAY ANTHELIOS XL DRY TOUCH SPF50+ This sunscreen has a double anti-shine action, immediate absorption and an ultra-dry finish that leaves no white marks on the skin. This dry touch sunscreen is non-greasy and suitable for oily skin type.

4. DERMALOGICA PRISMA PROTECT SPF30

This sunscreen’s formula does more than defend skin against UV light – it uses it to the skin’s advantage. Light-activated intelligent technology converts visible light into increased skin radiance for a natural glow.

5. SKINCEUTICALS PHYSICAL MATTE UV DEFENCE SPF 50

It offers a triple threat broad spectrum sunscreen. It provides a smooth matte finish on the skin even in humid conditions, making it the ideal summer bag go-to.