Mischo Beauty School: Sun Damage 101

As an esthetician, you all can probably imagine how passionate I am about skincare. The one aspect I’m most passionate about is protection from the sun. A misconception exists with regards to wearing sunscreen in the winter and the bottom line is this- you need to protect yourself from the sun regardless of the time of year or the temperature outside!

Sun damage is the major external cause of aging and it causes 80-85% of aging. The UV rays of the sun reach the skin in two different forms, as UVB and UVA rays. UVB rays tan the skin, damage the skin’s melanin and cause cancer. Penetrating further into the skin are the UVA rays. These rays weaken the skin’s collagen and elastin fibers, causing wrinkling and sagging in the tissues. Though these fibers naturally weaken as we age, it happens at a much faster rate when exposed to UVA rays.

Not only does sun damage lead to skin cancer, aging, and collagen and elastin deterioration, but also to hyperpigmentation, capillary damage and free radical damage. Avoiding the sun and wearing sunscreen is the best protection for skin. Sunscreens absorb or reflect UV rays. SPF refers to the sun protection factor in sunscreens, so the higher the SPF, the more protection you’ll receive from the sun. Be sure the sunscreen has full spectrum protection (protects the skin from both UVA and UVB rays).

As you all know, sunscreen can be found in the form of a moisturizer and may come in various weights and formulas suitable for various skin types. Everyone needs to wear sunscreen- regardless of your complexion! My recommendation is to wear an SPF of 30 everyday, rain or shine!

Love your skin.

Do you wear sunscreen? Have you had skin issues as a result of sun damage? Please feel free to e-mail me with any questions!