UP Beauty Online
The
sun provides energy in the form of rays of different lengths and strengths.
Ultraviolet rays give off weak energy from the longest to powerful from the
shortest waves in the form of UVA, UVB (and UVC).UVA: The UVA rays, while less powerful, actually penetrate deeper into the skin. Because of the penetration, these rays cause the breaking down of collagen and therefore premature aging. Regardless of the weather, be it cloudy, sunny, hot or cold, UVA wavelengths are always present (A=always present). These rays are the least associated with cancer, but if delivered in high dosages can lead to skin cancer, freckles and liver spots and of course speed the aging process.
UVB: These are the strongest rays (UVC rays are stronger, but don’t penetrate the earths’ atmosphere) that reach us. Think sunburn (B= burning rays) when remembering UVB. The SPF (sun protection factor) ratings were created to measure a product's ability to block these rays.
Speaking of SPF, let’s discuss and clear up ratings. An SPF of 15 means that you can stay in the sun 15 times longer with sunscreen than without it, before burning. An SPF of 15 protects against between 90 to 95% of the sun’s damaging rays. Contrast that with an SPF 40 that defends about 97.5% of harmful rays. Understanding this may lead some of us to decide that an SPF of 15 worn religiously is adequate, of course depending on lifestyle and situation.
Personally, for day to day indoor work situations, running errands and such, we feel a SPF 15 is adequate. If you’re going to be on the golf course for 5 hours, a hat, covered golf cart and an SPF of 30 applied every two hours would be more to our comfort level. For those of us in year round warmer climates, even driving adds to sun time exposed (left hand, arm and left side of face especially), so factor that in to your SPF choices.
It’s also important to use broad spectrum formulations all over your body and face to help block the combination of UVA/UVB rays. Using hats, sun umbrellas, shade, protective clothing, and sunglasses are also prudent in your efforts to preserve a youthful look and in staying healthy.
Modern Technology Threats
With technology churning along, there is now a new,
man-made form of skin threat from computer, laptop, tablet, LED TV and even
cell phone screens called HEV (High Energy Visible) light. High energy visible (HEV) light is a
high frequency light in the blue/violet region, and while we are typically hip to
the dangers associated with excessive exposure to ultraviolet light in the UVA
and UVB wavelengths, findings in recent years indicate that the full spectrum
of adverse effects has yet to be fully explored. One of the more stunning
scientific discoveries is that skin damage caused by high energy visible light may be as harmful as
damage caused by UVA and UVB light combined.
Like UVA, HEV light may be another
silent, long-term aging wavelength. It does not generate the immediate “sunburn”
reactions triggered by UVB so there is no real deterrent, but may have cancer
and aging implications. Many manufacturers of skin care and sunscreen products
are now including in HEV Melanin as a way of protecting against this new skin
threat.
Look
Better, Feel Better, Live Better
In addition to sunscreen, common sense may be your
best friend when dealing with the sun and other skin aging (and cancer causing)
risks. Try to plan outdoor activities on the fringes of the sun’s max phase of
damage (in the range of 11am-3pm) and limit time in front of your devices. The
pool can be just as much fun at 4 in the afternoon as it is at noon, and the
implications of the sun’s damage are less. Reading in the shade still get’s you
the pleasure of the outdoors, without the risk. And 15 minutes of sun,
unprotected, on the fringe of the heat of the day, will get you the Vitamin D
your body requires. Be smart and be healthy!
“The worst beauty advice that I have ever
taken has been from people who have told me that sunscreen isn't necessary. Not true!”
~ Amanda
Schull
PS:
Rumor has it that UP
Beauty’s Anti-Cellulite Cream under a great sunscreen
is a real beach babe hit! Shhhhh...
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