Did you know that skin Cancer is the most common of all cancer types found in Canada? In fact, about one-third of all new cases of cancer in Canada are skin cancers, and the rate continues to rise.
Another Saugeen Shores summer is just around the corner, which means beach days, outdoor markets and patio season! While summer is an exciting time of year, it’s also a critical time when it comes to your skin’s health. That’s why we want to take some time to educate you on sun damage and remind you about the importance of using sunscreen this summer.
Your Skin vs. The Sun
The skin is the largest organ in your body; it protects you from things like dehydration, sun, bacterial infections, pollution and more. While your skin does its best to stay strong and resilient, there are limits to its ability to keep you safe.
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation, also known as UV rays, damages the DNA of your skin cells, which can ultimately cause skin cancer. Photoaging, or UV-induced skin aging, is another long-term result of too much sun exposure. Excessive unprotected time in the sun leads to premature wrinkling, sagging, a leathery texture and hyperpigmentation (also known as “aging spots” or “liver spots”).
To summarize:
UVA = A as in age | UVAs are responsible for photo-ageing.
UVB = B as in burn | UVBs are the primary cause of sunburn.
UVA & UVB = Skin Cancers
You can still get a tan while wearing sunscreen and protecting yourself! Remember, it takes 48 hours for a natural tan to develop.
The Power of Sunscreen
By now, you might be feeling overwhelmed about how to properly protect your skin from the results of sun damage. But, there are multiple solutions to help keep your skin happy and healthy: hats, cover ups, shady spots, and most importantly, sunscreen.
There are two different types of sunscreen: Chemical sunscreen and Physical sunscreen.
So which one is right for you?
Physical sunscreen contains active mineral ingredients, such as titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. These work by sitting on top of the skin and deflecting the UVA rays. Physical sunscreens are ideal for sensitive skin, heat-activated skin (such as Rosacea), and blemish-prone skin.
Unfortunately, physical sunscreens tend to leave a white-cast on the skin, rinse off easily, and need to be reapplied in thicker layers.
Chemical Sunscreen contains organic compounds, such as oxybenzone, octinoxate, octisalate and avobenzone. These ingredients create a chemical reaction that changes UV rays into heat and then releases the heat from the skin. Chemical sunscreens are easier for daily use as they are formulated thinner and spread easily.
Unfortunately, chemical sunscreens may cause stinging or irritation on sensitive and dry skin types. They also need to be re-applied more often, and can be pore-clogging.
* This image has been removed due to infringement
While it’s great to go out and enjoy warm summer weather, it’s extremely important that you take the necessary precautions for your skin. To learn more about your skin and how it can be properly maintained, feel free to pop into the Spa Room or send us an email at info@sparoom.co – we’re happy to help!
Written by Shannon Marginson
Edited by Shelby Andrews