How To Protect Your Skin From The Sun In A Convenient Way

Posted on October 27th, 2023

The sun is out, and it's time to enjoy the great outdoors. But wait, have you thought about how to protect your skin from the sun? 

Many people underestimate the power of the sun's rays on their skin. Even on cloudy days, you can get a sunburn that leaves you uncomfortable and at risk for skin damage. 

This blog aims to give you easy-to-follow advice on safeguarding your skin from sun exposure. From specialized SPF creams to foods that bolster your natural defenses, we've got you covered. 

 So sit back, read on, and prepare to make informed choices for a sun-safe lifestyle.

The Basics of Sun Protection

Summer is about enjoying the beach, barbecues, and outdoor sports. However, these activities expose us to the sun’s harmful rays. So, it’s important to know the essentials of sun protection for a worry-free summer.

What is SPF and Why is it Essential?

Sun Protection Factor, or Broad Spectrum SPF, is a measure of how well a sunscreen will protect your skin from UVB rays. These are the rays that cause sunburn and contribute to skin cancer. The higher the SPF number, the more protection you get. For example, wearing an SPF 30 means you can stay out 30 times longer without burning compared to no sunscreen at all.

Introducing Light Day SPF Cream

If you’re looking for a reliable SPF cream, consider our Light Day SPF 37 cream from Circadia This product offers broad-spectrum protection, meaning it shields you from both UVA and UVB rays. It’s perfect for daily use, lightweight, and it even works well under makeup. Available in our store, this SPF cream takes care of your skin without making it feel greasy. You can purchase it at our Clinic Westhetics.

Sunscreen Benefits

Using sunscreen should be a non-negotiable part of your daily routine. It not only saves you from the immediate risk of sunburn but also offers long-term benefits like reducing the signs of aging and lowering your risk of skin cancer. So, not only do you get to enjoy your day in the sun, but you also take steps to maintain youthful, healthy skin for years to come.

Does Makeup Protect From the Sun?

When it comes to looking good while staying safe in the sun, many people wonder if their makeup can pull double duty. Can your foundation or tinted moisturizer replace a good SPF cream? In this section, we'll explore this question and offer some guidelines for incorporating sun protection into your beauty routine.

Can Makeup Replace SPF Cream?

The short answer is no, makeup should not replace your SPF cream. While some foundations and tinted moisturizers contain SPF, the level is often not high enough to offer complete sun protection. Moreover, makeup is usually not applied in a thick enough layer to get the full SPF benefit.

Layering Makeup Over SPF Cream

A smarter approach is to layer your makeup over a solid base of SPF cream. Our Light Day SPF cream serves as an excellent base that’s lightweight and works well under makeup. By doing so, you maximize sun protection without compromising your look. If you choose a foundation with SPF as well, consider it a bonus layer of protection.

Foods That Provide Sun Protection

It might surprise you to know that what you eat can also impact how well your skin defends itself against the sun. While foods are not a replacement for good SPF cream or clothing, they can be a valuable part of your sun protection plan.

Antioxidant-Rich Foods

Foods that are high in antioxidants like vitamins C and E can help your skin fight off sun damage. Examples include berries, oranges, and nuts. Antioxidants work by neutralizing free radicals, which are harmful molecules that can damage the skin. So, eating a diet rich in these foods can add an extra layer of defense against the sun.

Foods as a Supplement, Not a Substitute

It’s essential to remember that while eating foods high in antioxidants can offer some level of sun protection, it should not replace your daily use of SPF cream. Think of it as an additional layer, a bonus that helps but doesn’t replace traditional sunscreens.

Clothes That Provide Sun Protection

Most of us pick our summer clothes for comfort and style, but how often do we think about sun protection when choosing an outfit? It turns out that your wardrobe can be an effective tool for shielding your skin from harmful rays. In this section, we’ll explore the types of fabrics and clothing styles that offer an extra layer of safety.

Types of Fabrics

Not all fabrics are created equal when it comes to sun protection. Materials like polyester and nylon are generally more effective at blocking UV rays than cotton or linen. Darker colors and tighter weaves also offer better protection.

Clothing with Built-In SPF

Today, you can even find clothes that come with built-in SPF. These garments are specially designed to block UV rays, making them an excellent choice for long days outdoors. They're often labeled with their Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF), which works similarly to SPF but for clothing.

Other Ways to Protect Your Skin From The Sun

We've talked about SPF cream, makeup, foods, and clothing, but there are other simple steps you can take to ensure you’re safeguarding your skin effectively. This section aims to offer you some additional general tips to include in your sun protection routine.

Stay in the Shade

One of the simplest ways to protect your skin is to stay in the shade whenever possible, especially during peak sun hours, which are generally between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Using umbrellas or pop-up tents can provide temporary shade when you’re spending an extended period outdoors.

Wearing Hats and Sunglasses

Accessories like wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses can make a big difference in your level of sun protection. Hats can shield your face, neck, and ears, while sunglasses with UV protection can safeguard your eyes from harmful rays.

Conclusion

As you can see, protecting your skin from the sun is not just about slathering on some sunscreen and calling it a day. It's a multi-step approach that involves various methods for maximum effectiveness. 

From investing in a high-quality SPF cream like our Light Day SPF cream to layering makeup over it for added protection, every choice counts. Don't forget the role of diet; foods rich in antioxidants can give your skin a fighting chance against sun damage. Clothing, too, is an often overlooked but crucial element in your sun protection plan. And of course, there are everyday habits like seeking shade and wearing hats that can make a significant difference. 

If you're ever unsure about the best way to protect your skin, we're here to help. Feel free to reach out to us at (910) 974 0090 or via email at [email protected] and [email protected]. 

Protect your skin; it's the only one you have, and it deserves the best care possible.

Your Aesthetician

Dory Critchett