Despite this very wet weather, it is June and Summer has begun! Hopefully you are jetting off to sunnier climes soon and can enjoy some consistent sunshine.
To make sure you are safe in the sun, we thought we would dispel some of those sun-care myths, and there are plenty of them. Before we begin it is good to know a little bit about UVA and UVB – the ultraviolet rays that affect the skin after being exposed to the sun because it can get confusing. UVA light penetrates deep into the skin layer and unprotected exposure can lead to aging skin and wrinkles. UVB light affects the top layer of the skin and what causes the sunburn. UVB play a vital role in developing skin cancer and so it is important to protect against frequent burning – hence the reason for using suncreams.
Here’s the top 5 sun-care myths:
1. I don’t need sun screen all the time
People believe this for a whole myriad of reasons from being able to tan perfectly well without suncream to it not being hot enough or it being cloudy. UV rays penetrate the skin regardless of the temperature and whether there is cloud or not. It is advised to wear sunscreen whenever you are exposed to the sun, even if that is on a cloudy day or you are in water!
2. I cannot tan while wearing sunscreen
This belief is quite a common one! The sunscreen protects your skin from harmful rays and will still allow your skin to tan. The level of protection is within the factor you choose. So even if you apply sunscreen throughout the day you will still tan. If you cover up and wear a hat you will avoid tanning.
3. Sunscreen never expires
It does, just like any other products. It is generally advised that if opened you replace sunscreen each year.
4. Suncream is waterproof
This is the case for some sun-care products, but not all. It is well advised to check and double check to make sure that you are protected. Always read the label and reapply as directed. Although some suncreams are waterproof, you are better to reapply after going in the water to be sure.
5. I’ve been on a tanning bed so have a protective base tan
Some people use tanning beds before going away to expose their skin to UV rays so that when they get on holiday they will tan easier. Tanning beds have extremely high concentrations of UVA light that work to tan or darken the skin faster. Although it does give you a tan it does not protect your skin from the UVB rays that can cause sunburn. Due to the concentration of UVA light used in sun beds there are also health factors to consider.
The bottom line is to be safe in the sun and using products that provide high protection against both UVA and UVB rays is so important!
At Obsession we stock a range of Decleor sun products that protect against UVA and UVB, are anti-ageing and ideal for sensitive skin too.
See you in salon soon!