Winter Sunscreen?

Winter Sunscreen?

You thought the days of endless applying and reapplying sunscreen is over. Think again! 

Who Needs Sunscreen? Everyone! Sunscreen can help prevent skin cancer and shield you from the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays while absorbing all the benefits of vitamin D. 

Sunscreen is your daily all-year-round skin routine. Get used to it. It is as important as your eye cream and facial wash. Sunscreens are not just for the hot sunny days during July and August, you need them on bright winter snowy days or grey winter days. It is really (REALLY) important to use sunscreen every day, even in the winter months. 

Ultraviolet (UV) which is invisible radiation is present all year round. UV exposure may account for up to 80% of visible signs of aging in all skin types. Unprotected UV exposure is one of the main causes for the appearance of dry, wrinkling, impaired pigmentation,  and aging skin. UV radiation damage can range from premature wrinkles to dangerous skin cancer. We are all susceptible to incidental sun exposure, through our daily commute or just a few minutes outside. The cumulative effect that results in fine lines and sagging skin.

Sun Protection Factor (SPF)

SPF measures how much UVB light sunscreen can filter out. Dermatologists recommend using an SPF of at least 30 or higher. Broad-spectrum protection protects against UVA and UVB rays. 

When should I use sunscreen? Every day, and also it is crucial to use sunscreen post any in-clinic treatment. Following any laser treatment or chemical peels, usage of retinoids or vitamin c products, sunscreen application are mandatory for best results and maintenance of your results. If you are treating melasma, sunscreen should be applied every day even indoors. Post Sculpsure treatment for body contouring, avoid direct sun exposure a week post-treatment. You will also have to apply sunscreen to the treated area. After Intense Pulsed Light Therapy (IPL), to improve your skin complexion, reduce skin irregularities, and uneven pigmentation due to sun damage, to receive the most significant benefit of this “photofacial”, applying sunscreen daily even when indoors is necessary to reduce hyper-pigmentation. Morpheus is another laser treatment that also requires following a strict sunscreen regime. 

Finding the Right Sunscreen 

After your visit for a PicoWay Laser, applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily is very important for preventing future subsequent dark spots on your face. How to find the right sunscreen for your skin? Here we have listed out some of our staff and in-clinic clients’ favorite sunscreens. 

1.Vivier Sheer Broad SPF 45: 

Why We Like It: 

  • broad-spectrum UVA/UVB 
  • sheer, soft-touch texture spreads evenly on your skin 
  • ideal for normal to dry skin 

Why Is It Better:

  • contains Zinc Oxide, the strong sun protector (physical filter)
  • contains Octocrylene, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (Octinoxate), and Ethylhexyl Salicylate, UVB chemical filters
  • contains silica, helps to absorb oils, provide a mattifying weightless texture  
  • can be used alone or under make-up 
  • great for post procedures 

Why Is It Different:

  • contains chemical and physical UVA and UVB filters 
  • perfectly balances smaller sunscreen particles and larger particles for greater UV protection

2.Skinceuticals Sheer SPF50

Why We Like It: 

  • broad-spectrum 50
  • weightless transparent finish 
  • ideal for all skin types including sensitive 

Why Is It Better: 

  • ultra-sheer, transparent fluid easy to apply 
  • 100% physical filters 
  • contains Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide 
  • formulated with plankton extract boost skin nature defense from heat 

Why Is It Different: 

  • sheer fluid dries quickly, no residue 
  • paraben-free, non-comedogenic 
  • artemia salina plankton extract helps boost skin’s resistance to UV heat stress 

3.Coola Classic SPF 30 Makeup Setting Spray 

Why We Like It: 

  • 70% certified organic ingredients to reduce shine 
  • refresh UV protection 
  • ideal for all skin types 

Why Is It Better: 

  • formulated without oxybenzone 
  • vegan, hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, cruelty-free
  • reduce the appearance of pore and fine lines 
  • contains hyaluronic acid to bind moisture in your skin

Why Is It Different:

  • matte-finish mist protects sensitive skin 
  • keep your make up looking fresh all day long 
  • cucumber and aloe vera extracts help soothe your skin 

4.Elta MD UV Physical Tinted SPF41

Why We Like It: 

  • extra sensitive 
  • post-procedure recommended 
  • tinted, oil-free protection with just a touch of color 

Why Is It Better:

  • chemical-free mineral sunscreen 
  • contains antioxidants to neutralize free radicals
  • water resistant 

Why Is It Different:

  • withstands water, humidity, perspiration 
  • contains linoleic acid, diminish visible signs of aging 
  • fragrance-free, and paraben-free

How To Properly Apply Sunscreen 

It is important to apply enough sunscreen to any exposed area of skin every day. Even in the hard-to-reach areas such as the back of your neck, your hair will not shield your neck from sun exposure! Most adults need about 1 ounce, to fully cover their body. 

On days you will be outdoor for an extended period of time, put on sunscreen at least 15 minutes before your anticipated sun exposure, to let the sunscreen sink into your skin.

Reapply sunscreen approximately every 2 hours when outdoor, and according to the directions of the product. Always reapply sunscreen after heavy sun exposure, perspiration, and swimming. 

How to Clean Sunscreen 

Depending on the type of sunscreen you use, an oil cleanser helps to take off the first layer of sunscreen, dirt, and sweat. 

Use a toner for any residue sunscreen. Soak up the cotton pad, press it onto your skin for at least one minute to help soak up all the residue build-up. 

Skin Care Routine 

In the evening, a double cleanse will always helpful especially for those who wear makeup or multiple layers of products. Wash your face with a cleanser that fits your skin type and skin concern. Pat dry your skin, then follow your regular skin routines. 

In the summertime, we recommend using exfoliators to help plugged pores and debris or properly cleaning your skin. At Rejuuv Medi Spa, treatments such as silk peel are also very beneficial for all skin types, especially those prone to acne.

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