Over time collagen and elastin become less, making the dermis (lower part of the skin) thinner. As a result, the epidermis (upper part of the skin) becomes weaker, less hydrated and rougher. This all leads to wrinkles, lighter and darker spots, sagging and a dull appearance of the skin.
There are 2 types of aging
- Intrinsic aging: This one comes for us all, cells age with time, and the skin is no exception.
- Extrinsic aging: Now, this one we have a say in! The biggest culprit by far is the sun, the entire spectrum of UVB/A, visible light, and infrared. And thus, the aim of this article is to discuss sunscreen. Other extrinsic factors are air pollution and smoking.
Why daily sunscreen?
Even on a cloudy winter’s day where you are mostly indoors, you will still get some form of sun exposure, when you pop out to the shop, when you drive to pick up the kids or when you sit by the window reading. There is no such thing as ‘I never go into the sun’.
A large study of 903 adults found that, after 4.5 years, people who use daily sunscreen have 24% less skin aging than those who use sunscreen at their own discretion.
And remember, there is no conclusive clinical evidence that daily sunscreen use is unsafe or that it compromises vitamin D synthesis.
What sunscreen?
The basic rules are:
SPF of 30 and above
SPF means UVB coverage, so you are looking for one that says it includes UVA coverage or one that says ‘broad spectrum.’
Using enough sunscreen – if you apply it too sparingly, you are not reaching the SPF you think you are.
Then, it would help if you liked the texture of the sunscreen – otherwise, you will not be applying it every day. If you don’t like thick greasy sunscreens, look for ones that say ‘gel’ ‘fluid/e’ ‘water,’ ‘dry touch’. These are likely to be more cosmetically acceptable. Again, there are so many options you will find your match.
Mineral vs. chemical. To go mineral is good, it’s a larger molecule that stays on for longer.
The only downside to mineral is that it sometimes leaves a white cast. There are a few options that have a minimal to no cast. Chemical sunscreens are also an option, the dodgy ingredients are largely off the market now, and many good chemical ingredients have emerged. Often sunscreens are a mix of chemical and mineral ingredients.
The extra’s can be pretty nice. Some sunscreens come in a tint, so this can replace your base.
Hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides are nice additions for dry skin. Additional antioxidants are a big WIN; this will give an extra boost of sun protection.
What else can I do?
While sunscreen will cover the biggest culprit, daily insult from the sun. It does not help with air pollution. Air pollution causes oxidative stress – this means the DNA of your cells gets damaged. Antioxidants are the antidote to this. Applying an antioxidant to your skin in the morning will help to protect your skin against air pollution. Smoking is another cause of oxidative stress – to stop smoking has never been bad advice.
References:
DOI: 10.7326/0003-4819-158-11-201306040-00002.
DOI: 10.1111/phpp.12688
