The Story of Sun: How UV Rays & Oxidative Stress Affect Skin
We often consider sun exposure and skin as a recipe for burning. Conversely, the optimists view the sun as a means to achieve a smouldering tan. Indeed, when sunlight touches the skin, the dopamine effect is delightful. However, it's crucial not to overlook how UV rays contribute to oxidative stress - a phenomenon that may seem insignificant but when neglected, can accelerate skin ageing, trigger pigmentation, and cause inflammation. Before cancelling that dreamy beach holiday, consider this: protecting your skin from such damage requires rethinking your sun protection strategy. It's simpler than you might think.
Understanding Oxidative Stress: Why UV Rays Don’t Play Fair
We know that sun exposure, especially in excess, allows UV rays to penetrate the skin, causing sunburn. On a deeper level, this leads to increased cellular damage, transitioning from mere sun exposure to an actual sunburn. This is where oxidative stress comes into play, persisting due to prolonged UV exposure. Notably, UV rays are not equal in their effects: UVA rays are responsible for deep skin ageing and oxidative stress, while UVB rays cause burning and increase the risk of skin cancer. So, how do we protect our skin from the array of challenges these rays present, including oxidative stress? It requires a smarter sun strategy.
The Role of Sunscreen: The Investment That Keeps Giving
The hero of skincare has long been sunscreen. The anti-ageing preventive measure has evolved from a beach bag accessory to an essential everyday final layer of skincare. Year-round, SPF is applied to safeguard your face. What should this crucial product contain, and how does it work to prevent oxidative stress? Your SPF must offer broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection - shielding against damage from both types of UV rays is non-negotiable. If your sunscreen is enriched with antioxidants like Vitamin C, you receive additional protection against free radical damage. Free radicals are unstable oxygen molecules created by UV light that steal energy from healthy skin cells, causing oxidative stress. This process contributes to the breakdown of youthful-supporting collagen and elastin, underscoring the importance of protecting your skin from UV exposure.
But That’s Not All: Level Up With Ingestible Sunscreen
Enhancing your protective arsenal against oxidative stress has become innovative and intriguing. It's not only about the health of your skin but also about supporting its defence system. Ingestible sunscreen, a form of oral supplementation, strengthens your skin's photo-protective abilities, effectively bolstering the skin-sun barrier. While these supplements aren't a substitute for topical sunscreen, they serve as an ideal addition, particularly during summer and for individuals at higher risk of pigmentation, premature ageing, and skin cancer. A quality ingestible sunscreen should blend potent antioxidants like Ferulic Acid to repair DNA damage and neutralise the effects of free radicals. Add Vitamins C and E, and you have a supportive companion to give your skin its best chance against oxidative stress.
Play It Safe: Stay Covered When Out and About
Yes, we all want to enjoy a bit of sun lounger and cocktail time. But the trick to beautiful, youthful skin is knowing when to head for the shade. A wide-brimmed hat (at least 7.5 cm all around) and sunglasses are your summer facial fashion accessories. As for other styling, consider absorbing more UV rays with the colours you wear. Black and navy absorb UV light, meaning it’s less likely to reach your skin. While white and pale colours may seem cooler, darker shades are better for skin protection. After the beach or pool, try to cover up to minimise risk on those accidental sun exposure days. Think of it this way: a long-sleeved denim shirt provides an SPF of about 1700, while a white T-shirt gives you an SPF of about 7.
No one wants a summer without the joy of basking in the sun. However, it does come with risks - not just sunburn. Lasting skin damage, including pigmentation and accelerated ageing, may not be conditions you wish to contend with. Especially those that develop into chronic issues - yes, we’re talking about melasma. So, work smarter. Do your SPF research, incorporate the right oral ingestible sunscreen, and cover up carefully to avoid sun damage. And in the meantime, book a consultation with Skin Renewal today to explore more ways to manage oxidative stress for your specific needs.