Find the Perfect Sunscreen for Your Skin

Tag Archives: sun safety

Woman Choosing SunscreenChances are, you know the importance of regular sunscreen use. Not only does it protect against skin cancer, but it can also help prevent premature aging. However, the question for many is: which sunscreen is right for them?

The first step in finding the right sunscreen is to know your skin type. Skin types can vary from dry to oily, sensitive, or combination. Each type requires specific considerations when it comes to sunscreens. For instance, individuals with oily skin may prefer oil-free formulas, while those with dry skin may benefit more from sunscreens with hydrating or moisturizing properties.

Next, consider any specific skin concerns of yours, such as acne, rosacea, or hyperpigmentation. For instance, certain sunscreen ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, are suitable for sensitive skin types and can help calm inflammation. Whereas for acne-prone skin, you may want to look for non-comedogenic formulas that won’t clog the pores.

When considering sunscreen, also pay attention to the SPF (Sun Protection Factor) and ensure it offers broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends sunscreen with at least an SPF of 30 for adequate protection. Higher SPF values provide increased sun protection, but with any, it is essential to reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.

Below are some sunscreens we recommend:

  • SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50. A tinted sunscreen that has an SPF of 50. It has 100% mineral filters and provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection.
  • SkinCeuticals Physical Matte UV Defense SPF 50. A 100% physical tinted sunscreen with an oil-absorbing base that leaves a long-lasting matte finish. This sunscreen is formulated with titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to provide high broad-spectrum UV protection.
  • PCA Skin Active Broad Spectrum SPF 45. This face and body sunscreen provides water-resistant, broad spectrum protection with a light finish.

When choosing the right sunscreen for you, the most important factors include personal preference, skin type, and your individual needs. Whatever sunscreen you choose, it’s important to pick one that you will use consistently.

 Source(s): American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), Skinceuticals.com, PCAskin.com

Here at the Lisa S. Ball, NP Building we’re all big fans of SkinCeuticals’ sunscreens. So, when we found out about their latest one, the Daily Brightening UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 30, we had to carry it!

SkinCeuticals Daily Brightening UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 30

As a lightweight, broad-spectrum sunscreen, it pairs the benefits of an SPF with discoloration correcting and hydrating ingredients. This in turn moisturizes the skin, delivering a brighter, more balanced complexion instantly. Our aesthetician Lauren Battaglia has been trying out the product and shared her thoughts, “This product is amazing! I’ve been using it for a couple of weeks now and it really gives my skin a glow. It’s a must for any skincare routine.”

As with all SkinCeuticals products, the Daily Brightening UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 30 also went through a rigorous research and development process. This is evident in the detailed description of the ingredients on the SkinCeuticals website:

  • 1% Tranexamic acid minimizes the reoccurrence of discoloration and brown patches with continued use.
  • 2% Niacinamide helps to reduce the appearance of discoloration.
  • 7% Glycerin draws and retains moisture.
  • 3% Phenylethyl Resorcinol protects against discoloration.
  • Reflective Mica instantly brightens skin.

As you can see, the Daily Brightening UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 30 from SkinCeuticals offers a variety of benefits and is a must-have this Summer! Contact our office today to get yours.

 

Source: SkinCeuticals

Maybe you fell asleep on the beach, or forgot to pack sunscreen.  However it happened, sunburn can be painful and in severe cases, even dangerous.  If you do get burned:

• Take a cool shower or bath, or apply wet, cold washcloths.
• Avoid products that contain benzocaine, lidocaine, or petroleum (Vaseline).
• Cover blisters with dry bandages to prevent infection.
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen, but do not give aspirin to children.

Call a doctor if you have a serious reaction:

• Feeling faint or dizzy
• Rapid pulse or rapid breathing
• Extreme thirst, no urine output, or sunken eye
• Pale, clammy, or cool skin
• Nausea, fever, chills, or rash
• Eyes hurt and are sensitive to light
• Severe, painful blisters

Of course, it’s best to protect yourself from getting burned in the first place.  Exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can increase your risk of developing skin cancer.  The American Cancer Society recommends taking these steps:

• Wear clothing and a wide-brimmed hat to protect as much skin as possible.  Protect your eyes with sunglasses that block at least 99% of UV light.
• Use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30: reapply at least every 2 hours, and after swimming or sweating.
• Avoid direct exposure to the sun, especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when rays are strongest.
• Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps: both can cause serious long-term skin damage and contribute to skin cancer.

Source: American Cancer Society, Healthy Living

Spring Sun Safety

Spring is almost here, and that means more time spent out in the sun. Since the sun is a major source of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, exposure to it can pose serious risks to our skin.

Although there are three types of UV rays, UVA and UVB are of the most concern. UVA rays are long wavelengths that penetrate deep into the dermis causing skin aging and wrinkles. UVB rays are shorter wavelengths that are more superficial, causing damage in the form of redness and sunburns. Both UVA and UVB rays can cause skin cancer.

The first step you can take to protect your skin from these harmful rays is to use a broad-spectrum, or full-spectrum sunscreen. Make sure it’s an SPF of at least 30, combined with ingredients titanium and zinc dioxide. Reapply every two hours.

Next, avoid the sun and seek shade when the UV rays are strongest. This usually is between 10am and 2pm.

Lastly, try taking one aspirin an hour before going out in the sun to avoid a potential burn. If you do contract a sunburn however, try taking Advil or Motrin. This will help minimize the pain and inflammation associated with the burn.

These precautions will significantly reduce your risk of developing skin cancer, while allowing for proper exposure to the sun. If you do notice anything suspicious on your skin, contact our office immediately. Early detection of skin cancer is crucial.