How to Protect Your Skin from Sun Exposure
There are many wonderful things about summertime, but unfortunately skin health isn’t one of them. Sun damage can lead to dark spots, wrinkles and even skin cancer. The good news is sun damage is also easily preventable, even when you spend lots of time outside. Here’s an explainer on the best practices for skin and what happens when you don’t properly protect yourself.
Even when it's cloudy and you're outside, you're getting exposure to the sun’s UV rays. Even if for a brief period of time, exposure can lead to premature aging of the skin and increase the risk of skin cancer. In fact, many negative effects of aging come from sun exposure. These detrimental effects include:
Premature Aging
With prolonged sun exposure over time, the skin can become wrinkled and leathery. Since it occurs gradually, often manifesting itself many years after the majority of a person’s sun exposure, premature aging is often regarded as unavoidable, normal part of growing older. However, up to 90 percent of the visible skin changes commonly attributed to aging are caused by the sun—so sunscreen is part of any anti-aging regimen no matter your age.
Hyperpigmentation
Dark spots and an uneven complexion are often the result of too much time in the sun. Melanin in the skin increases at variable rates, so you’re left with deep “sun spots” that can be difficult to get rid of.
Skin Cancer
We probably don’t have to remind you that sun damage can have effects beyond an uneven complexion. Both UVA and UVB rays contribute to sun-induced skin cancer. If you notice changes in your skin, speak with your dermatologist.
Minimizing The Effects of Sun Exposure
Those who protect their skin consistently from a young age are more likely to enjoy more youthful, healthy skin than their peers at every age. Still, it's never too late to start practicing good skin practices. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends daily use of a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher regularly and as directed. If you buy a moisturizer with SPF 15, sun protection can become a part of your daily routine.
Apply sunscreen on any exposed skin that is not covered by clothing—and re-apply at least every couple of hours, especially if you're sweating or doing a water sport. Look out for skincare products and makeup products that contain an SPF, like Garnier Miracle Skin Perfector BB Cream, which can help prevent premature aging of the skin due to sun exposure.
How to Choose Sunscreen for Your Skin Type
There are a myriad of SPF options out there — different formulations, sun protection factors and consistencies. Here’s how to find the best SPF moisturizer for your skin type.
The Best Sunscreen for Dry Skin
Dry skin lacks natural oils so a good way to maintain oil levels is by using products that are formulated with humectants and oils to help nourish and hydrate skin. Skin can get especially dry in the sun or in hot temperatures so if your complexion is prone to dryness, use a product that can help restore its natural oils. Look for broad spectrum SPF 15 or higher, re-apply regularly; particularly if your skin is flaky or dry and never skip SPF, rain or shine.
The Best Sunscreen for Oily Skin
Oily skin does need to be how-to-adapt-your-moisturizer-for-oily-skin-throughout-the-year however it doesn’t necessarily need more oil. You can use an SPF formulated product that is oil-free and if you experience excess oiliness. Opt for a product that can regulate shine. After all, you don’t want to spend the day thinking about whether your skin is too oily-looking. Look for a product that protects your skin with broad spectrum SPF 15 or higher and apply generously to your face, neck, chest and all over your body.
The Best Sunscreen for Acne
Excess oil on skin can exacerbate acne-prone skin so adding more oil in the form of an oil-based SPF is not advisable. A great way to get SPF protection, diminish the look of blemishes and improve your complexion is to use a BB cream. Garnier SkinActive 5-in-1 Miracle Skin Perfector BB Cream Oil-Free helps control shine, minimizes the appearance of pores, evens skin tone, and protects skin from the sun. The formula also contains mineral perline and antioxidant wild berry and mattifies your skin and protects it from free radical damage.
