The Ultimate Guide to Sun Protection: Shielding Your Skin with Care
One of the purposes of our London clinic is our dedication to helping you to achieve healthy and radiant skin.
During summer, we are always urging people to protect their skin to avoid unwanted issues such as an increased rate of ageing and damaging their skin.
In our Ultimate Guide below, we’ll delve into the crucial topic of sun protection. With summer approaching, it’s essential to prioritise safeguarding your skin from potential damage.
Let’s explore the importance of sun protection and uncover effective strategies to shield your skin with care.
Understanding Sun Damage & Sun Protection
Although lounging in the sun can feel great, it is important to understand what is happening to your skin, how to avoid damage, and how to protect yourself from the sun effectively.
The sun emits two types of harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays: UVA and UVB. Both can damage your skin in different ways. UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin, leading to premature ageing, wrinkles, and even skin cancer. UVB rays are responsible for sunburns and play a significant role in the development of skin cancer.
It’s vital to protect your skin from both types of UV radiation to successfully avoid these issues. Below we’ll outline some of the steps to take to ensure that your sun protection is as strong and effective as it needs to be.
Choosing the right Sunscreen
Investing in high-quality sunscreen is a fundamental step in sun protection. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. The SPF (Sun Protection Factor) indicates the level of protection against UVB rays, so opt for SPF 30 or higher. Here at the clinic, we use and recommend the Obagi range of sun protection.
Proper application of Sunscreen
Applying sunscreen correctly is key to its effectiveness. Start by generously applying sunscreen to all exposed areas of your skin, including the face, neck, ears, hands, and any other body parts exposed to the sun. Don’t forget areas like the back of your neck, tops of your feet, and your scalp if it’s not covered by hair. Remember to reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you’re swimming or sweating.
Sun-protective Clothing
In addition to sunscreen, wearing sun-protective clothing can significantly enhance your defence against harmful UV rays. Look for clothing made with tightly woven fabrics, as they offer better protection. Wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses with UV protection, and long-sleeved shirts and pants are excellent choices to minimise sun exposure.
Seek Shade during high UV periods
When the sun’s rays are at their strongest, usually between 10 am and 4 pm, seek shade whenever possible. This is especially important if you’re in an open area with minimal natural shade.
Be Sun-smart all year round
Sun protection is not limited to sunny summer days. UV rays can still reach your skin on cloudy or overcast days. It’s crucial to make sun protection a year-round habit, regardless of the weather. Snow, water, and sand can also reflect UV rays, increasing your exposure, so be diligent in protecting your skin during outdoor activities.
Don't forget your Lips & Eyes
Your lips and the delicate skin around your eyes are often overlooked but require protection too. Use lip balms with SPF to shield your lips from UV damage, and wear sunglasses with UV protection to safeguard your eyes from harmful rays.
Avoid Tanning Beds
Tanning beds are not a safe alternative to natural sunlight. The intense UV radiation emitted by these devices significantly increases the risk of skin cancer and accelerates skin aging. Avoid using tanning beds altogether to protect your skin’s health.
Book regular skin checks
Make it a habit to examine your skin regularly for any changes, such as new moles, growths, or spots that have changed in color, shape, or size. If you notice anything unusual or concerning, consult a dermatologist promptly for evaluation. We now offer minor surgery and skin excision of any lumps/moles. These are sent for histology to ensure a proper diagnosis.
Understand your skin health in detail with a medical professional in London
Protecting your skin from the damaging effects of the sun is crucial for maintaining its health and vitality. Incorporating these sun protection strategies into your daily routine can significantly reduce the risk of sunburns, premature ageing, and skin cancer. Remember, prevention is always better than cure when it comes to your skin’s well-being.
At the Dr Apul Parikh Clinic, we are committed to helping you enhance your appearance and ensure your skin’s long-term health. Stay sun-safe, and let us be your partner in achieving beautiful and protected skin.
Our priority is to ensure you enjoy a comfortable treatment and have confidence in your safety and results. Our goal is to ensure that patients are satisfied with their treatment before, during and after.
Contact Dr Apul Parikh to book a consultation with a medical specialist and discuss your skin health in detail.
