Let’s talk sunscreen

June 13th, 2023 Posted In: Beauty, Wellbeing

When to apply sun lotion?

You should be using sun lotion all year round.  It reduces the risk of skin cancer.  It protects your skin from becoming photosensitive, which causes premature ageing of the skin.

Which sunscreen?

For the best ‘feel’ on the skin and for optimal protection, sunscreens should be purchased to suit skin type and/or condition, for example dry or combination skin (type) acne-prone (condition).

Physical sunscreens block UV rays and reflect or scatter them away from the skin’s surface.  These are mineral based.

Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays, turning them to heat.

How much to apply

  • For face and neck, 2.5ml (a good teaspoon full)
  • For the whole of the body, a shot glass full

What is SPF = Sun Protection Factor?

This means that if using SPF 50, it will take 50 times longer for the skin to redden than if sunscreen SPF 50 had not been applied.

Why apply?

It really does reduce the risk of skin cancer.  Skin cells are very good at regenerating and healing, but UVA and UVB rays attack the basal layer, that’s where they start out on their journey, and once distorted by harmful rays, cells struggle to maintain their integrity, become seriously damaged, with resulting skin problems.

Sunscreen is a good investment.  Purchasing a broad-spectrum product protects skin from both UVA and UVB rays.

Remember 80% of UVA radiation reaches the earth – even on a cloudy day!!!

Advice on using sunscreen from Country Practice

Some sunscreen suggestions

  • Non-comedogenic sunscreens (they are formulated so that pores are not blocked).
  • La Roche-Posay Anthelios – this is a non-comedogenic sunscreen – absolutely brilliant, you won’t even know that you have it on! Great for sensitive skin types.
  • Eucerin Oil Control Dry Touch Gel-Cream SPF50+ is a must for acne-prone skin. Light, non-sticky.
  • Kiehl’s Ultra-Light Daily UV Defense Aqua Gel 50+, again good for oily skin types.
  • Dry skin types might like to try Ambre Solaire Super UV Anti-Dryness Protection Cream SPF50+. This is a gloriously light hydrating sunscreen.
  • And my all-time favourite – Heliocare 360. Simply wonderful.  Covers not only for outdoors, this broad-spectrum cream sunscreen guards against UVA, UVB, visible light, blue light from digital devices and infrared-A.
  • Have fun in the sun – live life to the full – live life sun safe!

That’s it for now dear reader………Jane

For other news, tips and advice on keeping well, check out the blog page on our website here.