It is common knowledge that taking proper care of your skin is the key to reducing the effects aging has on it. From eating the right foods to having a quality skin care routine, it is essential to be kind to your skin from the moment you wake up to the moment you go to sleep so that your future self, and your future skin, will thank you. One of the most effective ways to take care of your skin is by applying sunscreen daily. For years mothers and dermatologists have urged us to use sunscreen, even in the winter or on a cloudy day. Research shows that the regular use of sunscreen prevents your skin from sun damage and can also reverse the signs of sun damage, in turn, reducing the signs of aging. A recent Australian study showed that the skin of people who regularly wore sunscreen showed 24 percent fewer signs of aging than skins of people who rarely wore sunscreen. This study is one of the many examples that prove why sunscreen is so important. Here is why you should apply sunscreen first thing every day.
It slows down the appearance of aging skin
Sunscreen does not just protect from the harmful rays of the sun, but it prevents visible changes of the skin. If used regularly, sunscreen can slow down the formation of wrinkles, bumps, and other texture changes, making your skin look younger. Keep in mind however that sunscreen will not take away wrinkles. Rather it is used as a preventative measure for potential future wrinkles, which is why it is important to apply and reapply every day. Not only does it prevent skin damage and skin cancer, but it sets your skin up for success as it ages.
Broad Spectrum Coverage is Key
There are two types of ultraviolet rays that can cause skin damage: UVA and UVB. UVB waves are what cause actual sunburns. UVA waves cause skin damage that shows as you age, including dark spots, wrinkles, uneven texture, and pigmentation. Most sunscreens protect against UVB rays, but not all sunscreens defend against UVA rays. The ones that do are often known as “broad spectrum sunscreens,” and those are the ones to look for to get the best overall skin protection.
Although aging is inevitable, and you are bound to get wrinkles eventually, using sunscreen can give your skin more time before such visual changes start to happen. Applying a quality sunscreen daily is a crucial part of your health and beauty routine if you want to keep your skin healthy and looking as young as possible. Our sunscreen of choice is EltaMD UV Clear Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 46, which contains niacinamide (vitamin B3), hyaluronic acid and lactic acid, ingredients that promote the appearance of healthy-looking skin. It is very lightweight and silky, making it ideal to wear by itself or under makeup.
