We have all heard how important it is to wear an SPF for skin protection, but do you know the specific reasons why?
What is UVA?
UVA damage is not reversible and we must protect ourselves at all times of the year from these rays, which can reach deeper into the skin’s layers and down into the dermis (the thickest layer). It contributes indirectly to the development of skin cancer and also leads to premature ageing / wrinkles. UVA is the dominate tanning ray - so while yes, it’s nice to have that sun kissed look, it causes damage over time and is the result of injury to the skin’s DNA, which darkens in an attempt to prevent further damage. This is why sunbeds are a big NO and can emit up to 12x more UV than the sun!
What is UVB?
UVB rays are the main culprits of reddening / sunburn and typically target the superficial layers of the skin (epidermis) causing more immediate damage. UVB rays are directly absorbed by your cellular DNA, which plays a central part in the development of skin cancer and also induces hyperpigmentation. Like UVA rays, UVB can harm your skin all year round - especially at high altitudes - for example, that fabulous ski trip you have been thinking about. This is because UVB rays reflect on snow and ice and bounce back onto your skin, effectively hitting you twice. Which is why wearing an SPF everyday protects you from exposure to these rays, regardless of the country and / or weather conditions.
What can we do?
The SPF products we stock and perscribe at our Sheffield skincare clinic, such as ZO Skin Health and Heliocare 360 offer multi-award-winning ranges which can provides daily protection against UVA and UVB rays, as well as visible light and infrared-A.
Our SPF procucts provide exceptional protection and are packed with extremely high antioxidants, shielding the skins surface and defending the dermis with a combination of intelligent ingredients.
Specifically designed to absorb visible light wavelengths at the skins surface, they can absorb wavelengths between 400 and 500nm, a level that is 2x greater than our own melanin and advanced anti-oxidant’s penetrate deep into the dermis, helping to protect fibroblasts in the skin and prevent free radical damage.
