Shine On, Safely: The Importance of Sunscreen for Healthy Skin

As the sun has decided to come out, and with the increase number of “fake news” articles online about sunscreen, I wanted to this week discuss the importance of sunscreen.

Anyone who has been for a skincare consultation will know the star skincare products I recommend in a. Skincare routine are SPF and retinol. SPF is the only clinically proven product to protect against ageing, it’s not just for beach days and holidays - it’s a daily essential for healthy skin!

There are two types of UV rays, UVB rays are the ones we feel on our skin on a sunny day, UVA rays are around us every time its daylight, so if its light outside - you should have SPF on.

Sun Cream Prevents Premature Ageing -

Sun exposure is responsible for 80% of facial ageing. Resulting in the breakdown of collagen and elastin, sun damage manifests as fine lines, wrinkles, age spots and sagging. It can also damage pigment-producing cells called melanocytes which cause pigmentation. However, by applying sun cream every morning, you can reduce early ageing by 24%.

Sun Cream Reduces The Risk Of Cancer.

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation is a significant risk factor for developing the disease, but sun cream can reduce our risk by around 40%. It shields our skin from the damaging effects of UV rays, in turn, protecting us from the life-threatening illness.

If you’re looking to show down the signs of ageing as well as reduce your risk of skin cancer, the product should be a non-negotiable part of your everyday routine!

So, What Is The Best Sun Cream?

There are thousands of options when it comes to sun cream, but the biggest differences really are wether you choose a chemical or mechanical SPF. Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing UV rays and converting them into heat, whereas Mechanical sunscreens, also known as physical sunscreens, create a protective barrier, usually using Zinc or titanium on the skin's surface that reflects and scatters UV rays.

Mechanical sunscreens are often a better choice for sensitive skin and less likely to be irritating or cause reactions.

My personal recommendations include Alumier’s Sheer Hydration Versatile Tint Mineral SPF 40 and Intradermology Synergy 6 SPF 50 both of which you can order from Ellie, via a GetHarley account.