Summer has already come and each of us expects to enjoy the advantages it brings us. However, the sun and the high temperatures to which we are exposed carry negative effects, especially on the skin. Në Exposure to the sun can promote premature skin aging, highlight wrinkles, marks or brown spots, dry skin and may predispose to the development of cancer. of the skin.
How does solar radiation affect the skin?
UVA radiation represents that part of the radiation that has the longest wavelength and penetrates deeper into the skin (in the dermis). Activates free radicals and accelerates skin aging. UVB radiation penetrates the upper part of the skin (epidermis). This part of the radiation is responsible for sunburn, allergic reactions and the development of skin cancer. UVC radiation represents the most dangerous part of solar radiation. Thankfully, this part is filtered by the ozone layer after the reduction of this layer in recent years.
What should an ultraviolet radiation protection product offer?
The product must have a wide protection spectrum; that is, to adequately protect against important parts of UVA and UVB radiation of the light spectrum. UVB radiation protection is assessed through the SPF or "Sun Protection Factor" indicator. This index shows the time during which you can stay in the sun without getting burned. For example, if your skin is normally red after 10 minutes of staying in the sun, applying a spf 15 cream to the skin makes this time multiply with the SPF indicator, so it lasts 150 minutes. UVA radiation protection is assessed through the UVA-PF indicator. This indicator is determined through an in-vivo test, called Persistent Pigment Darkening (PPD) test. UVA-PF has three levels: PA +, PA ++, PA +++. PA + represents the lowest level of protection, while PA +++ represents the highest. The FDA (Food and Drug Adminstration) has approved 17 ingredients that protect against UV radiation. Some of them provide a physical, mineral barrier that reflects and returns radiation before the latter penetrates the skin, while others provide a chemical barrier that absorbs ultraviolet radiation and converts it into energy. Both types are effective in protection and safe, if used properly. Choosing the right product depending on the requirements and characteristics of each skin is very important. Thus, babies and children have different needs in terms of sun care from adults, while products adapted for dry skin may not adapt or create problems in oily or acne prone skin, rosacea, etc.
HOW SHOULD THE APPLICATION OF PROTECTION PRODUCT BE?
â?¢ Apply the product 30 minutes before exposure
â?¢ Reapply the product every two hours if you are exposed
â?¢ Reapply the product after you get out of the water or after intense sweating
â?¢ Do not massage the product after its application
The use of products with a protective filter is an important part of the summer skin care regimen, but not the only one.
Other measures include:
â?¢ Avoid sun exposure during intense radiation hours 10:30 - 16:00.
â?¢ Use of protective clothing and accessories: hats, goggles.
â?¢ Consumption of water, fruits, vegetables.
â?¢ The hottest season of the year requires skin care, while enjoying the nature and freedom of summer.
But how to choose the right product for your skin needs?
The product should be chosen depending on the intensity of exposure. So for a minimal exposure, i.e. a few minutes occasionally during the day, applying a SPF 15 protector that filters about 93% of UV radiation is sufficient. In cases of intense exposure it is recommended to use solar with SPF higher than 30. SPF 30 filters up to 97% of ultraviolet radiation, while SPF 50 filters up to 98% of it. Choose the right product depending on your skin type. Thus, for dry skin, a cream-shaped product is recommended, while for mixed and oily skin, emulsion, fluid or gel products are suitable. For acne prone skin, it is recommended to choose products that say "Oil free" or "Non-comedogenic". For children's skin, chemicals can be irritating. PABA and oxybenzone are associated with skin reactions. Products with physical filters; both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are better tolerated and are often the main ingredients in products tailored to this age group. In case of sensitive skin or that creates a problem from the application of the protective cream with a chemical filter, creams with a physical filter can be used; as with zinc oxide content, titanium dioxide, etc. Also skin with allergic tendency or disease like Rozacea should avoid products that contain condoms, fragrances, alcohol; as well as PABA or oxybenzone. People with melasma (brown spots or "pregnancy masks"), a history of skin cancer, or white skin, should systematically use products with a minimum SPF of 30.
