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Sun Damage and
by Jennifer JansenApril is our designated "Sun Damage
Awareness Month".
Let’s be honest, we all love
the way our skin looks with some summer color. A tan makes the skin
"glow" and gives the illusion of youth and vitality. Once the sun
dwindles into winter drone, we are left with blotchy spots, sun damage,
mottled appearance, and lets not forget WRINKLES.
We all need
some sun exposure; it’s our primary source of vitamin D, which
helps us absorb calcium for stronger, healthier bones. But it
doesn’t take much time in the sun for most people to get the
vitamin D they need, and unprotected exposure to the sun’s
ultraviolet rays can cause skin damage, eye damage, immune system
suppression, and even cancer.
Sunlight contains three types of
ultraviolet rays: UVA, UVB, and UVC.
UVA rays cause skin
aging and wrinkling and contribute to skin cancer, such as melanoma.
Because UVA rays pass effortlessly through the ozone layer (the
protective layer of atmosphere, or shield, surrounding the earth), they
make up the majority of our sun exposure. Beware of tanning beds because
they use UVA rays. A UVA tan does not help protect the skin from further
sun damage; it merely produces color and a false sense of protection
from the sun.
UVB rays are also dangerous, causing
sunburns, cataracts (clouding of the eye lens), and immune system
damage. They also contribute to skin cancer. Melanoma, the most
dangerous form of skin cancer, is thought to be associated with severe
UVB sunburns that occur before the age of 20. Most UVB rays are absorbed
by the ozone layer, but enough of these rays pass through to cause
serious damage.
UVC rays are the most dangerous, but
fortunately, these rays are blocked by the ozone layer and don’t
reach the earth.
As the melanin increases in response to sun
exposure, the skin tans. But even that "healthy" tan may be a sign of
sun damage. The risk of damage increases with the amount and intensity
of exposure. Those who are chronically exposed to the sun, such as
farmers, boaters, and sunbathers, are at much greater risk.
We chose
this month to focus on sunscreen protection, discuss its importance in a
skincare regimen, and offer our customer’s special pricing to start the
season out on the right foot.
There are many good sunscreens
available, including formulations for sensitive skin, brands without any
additives, long-lasting waterproof and sweat-proof versions, and
easy-application varieties in spray bottles. Many tinted sunscreens are
available that make it easy to see where you applied the product and
offer a slight color to the skin. Tinted varieties are popular for
weekend wear and outdoor activities such as skiing, gardening, and
biking.
We have exciting new developments in sun protection that
most people are not aware of- Murad Sun Supplements and Sun Vitamines.
These are actually oral supplements that work with the body’s immune
system to increase the natural protection your skin has to UVA and UVB
radiation. While protecting your skin on the surface with sunscreen,
oral supplements will protect the skin from the inside out. Does this
actually work? YOU BET! Studies have shown that a multi-tiered
approach to protection from sun exposure takes years off the look of
your skin.
Welcome this Spring with a whole new look. fresh,
flawless, and protected!
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