By Hardik Soni
As a physician specializing in skincare and aesthetic procedures, I'm always surprised that so many people who care about their looks ignore what can be the best and least expensive path to beautiful, youthful skin: using an effective sunscreen. People think of sunscreen as something that protects against skin cancer and prevents burning, not as a beauty aid. But the radiation that causes sunburns and skin cancer also causes photodamage to the skin, including sun spots, leathery appearance, wrinkles and prominent blood vessels. Photodamage also gives the skin a sallow color with uneven texture and tone. In fact, the sagging skin and blotchy pigmentation we associate with aging is primarily caused by unprotected exposure to the sun. So if you care about the appearance of your skin, sunscreen should be a part of your skincare regimen. But first you need to know some basics about solar rays, types of sunscreens, and even how to apply these lotions and creams properly.
Protecting against UVA and UVB rays
That "healthy tan" so many people strive for is the by-product of the harmful effects of the sun's ultraviolet radiation on our skin. Ultraviolet radiation consists of UVA and UVB light. Both forms can cause skin damage, including skin cancer. Skin cancer now accounts for half of all cancers in the United States. And the more fair your skin, the greater the risk of skin cancer. The good news is the right kind of sunscreen can protect you from this damage. Make sure the sunscreen you use blocks both UVA and UVB radiation. Read the labels to make sure.
Sunscreens and SPF
The SPF (Sun Protection Factor) - the number on the sunscreen label - is an important consideration in choosing a sunscreen. The SPF represents the level of protection each product provides. An SPF of 25 will block out 93% of the sun's ultraviolet radiation. Consider this - an SPF of 25 - the minimum for any sunscreen you use. And if your skin is more sun sensitive than average - for example, if you are fair skinned, with red hair and blue eyes - An SPF of 30 is recommended.
Chemical and Physical Sunscreens
Sunscreens come in two basic varieties: chemical sunscreens and physical sunscreens. Chemical sunscreens absorb UV radiation and convert it to heat.
Physical sunscreens, on the other hand, reflect UV radiation, as well as convert it to heat. This dual action makes physical sunscreens very effective. Traditionally, physical sunscreens were opaque. Perhaps you remember the chalky, white substance lifeguards used to slather on their noses. That was a physical sunscreen. Some people avoid using them because they don't like appearing as if they'd been daubed with war paint. But today's physical sunscreens are barely perceptible on all but the darkest skin. So if you want maximum protection and want to look good at the same time, a combination of chemical and physical sunscreen is best.
Over-the-Counter and Prescription Sunscreens
If you know what to look for in a sunscreen, you can find many excellent over-the-counter products on drugstore shelves. For those seeking the very best in protection, your physician or dermatologist can prescribe professional quality sunscreen products not available through retail channels. A range of new products with improved protective properties that have come to market in recent years can make this a worthwhile option.
Applying Sunscreen Properly
You can choose a good sunscreen with the proper range of protection and a high SPF, but if you don't apply it properly it won't protect you! I routinely instruct patients in proper sunscreen application because early on I found out so many were either putting on too much or not enough. Proper application is very simple: Apply an even amount liberally as necessary to completely cover all exposed areas. It may be necessary to apply every 2 hours especially when performing activities that result in sweating or involve water sports. These activies also require the use of a sunscreen which is water proof. Typically, an oil based formulation is utilized for this purpose as it is less likely to wash off. Regardless, frequent application is the rule rather than the exception especially for prolonged sun exposure.
Finishing Touches
At Ethos Medical Spa in Summit, New Jersey, which I co-founded to provide state-of-the-art non-invasive aesthetic procedures, I see the dramatic difference in the skin of clients who do and do not regularly use effective sunscreens. That's why I recommend everyone take these three simple steps to better skin and health. Learn about sunscreens, use them regularly, and apply properly.
Dr. Hardik Soni is a co-founding member of Ethos Spa in Summit, New Jersey a medical spa specializing in non-invasive aesthetic procedures. A board certified physician and member of the American Society of Laser Medicine and Surgery, Dr. Soni studied at Johns Hopkins University and is currently on medical staff at St Clair's Medical Center. Dr. Soni has trained in many aspects of aesthetic medicine, including laser and IPL therapy for skin rejuvenation, cellulite reduction, and hair reduction. A member of the International Spa Association, he is also proficient in the administration of BOTOX and dermal fillers.
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posted by Cheryl Levesque @ 3:58 PM
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