Exposure to the sun is proven to be the biggest cause of premature ageing of our skin. Here we're going to explain to you more about why, as well as what you can do to help protect your skin.
Firstly, let's talk about the difference between UVA and UVB rays.
Both UVA and UVB rays are part of the sun's radiation spectrum. While they are both forms of UV radiation, they have different effects on the skin.
UVA Rays: UVA rays have a longer wavelength than UVB rays and are less intense. They can penetrate the deeper layers of the skin, reaching the dermis, which is the thickest layer. UVA rays are present throughout the year, even on cloudy days, and can penetrate glass. Here are some key points about UVA rays:
Ageing Effects: UVA rays are responsible for premature skin aging, such as wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots.
Skin Damage: UVA rays can cause damage to the collagen and elastin fibers in the skin, leading to a loss of elasticity and sagging.
Skin Cancer: UVA rays are also linked to the development of certain types of skin cancer, including melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer.
Immediate Tanning: UVA rays contribute to immediate tanning or darkening of the skin.
UVB Rays: UVB rays have a shorter wavelength and are more intense than UVA rays. They primarily affect the outer layer of the skin, called the epidermis. UVB rays vary in intensity depending on the time of day, season, and geographic location. Here are some key points about UVB rays:
Burning Effects: UVB rays are the main cause of sunburns on the skin.
Skin Damage: Prolonged exposure to UVB rays can lead to the development of long-term skin damage, including premature aging, wrinkles, and skin discoloration.
Vitamin D Production: UVB rays play a crucial role in the production of vitamin D in our bodies, which is important for bone health and other functions.
It's important to note that both UVA and UVB rays can contribute to the development of skin cancer. Therefore, protecting your skin from both types of UV rays is essential. When choosing sunscreen, look for broad-spectrum products that provide protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Additionally, wearing protective clothing, seeking shade during peak sun hours, and using sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays can help reduce your exposure to harmful UV radiation.
So do you need to wear SPF every day, even when the sun isn’t out? Short answer, YES!
As mentioned above, UV rays penetrate through clouds and glass! So even it’s a cloudy day, or you’re sat inside, it doesn’t guarantee your protection from skin damage. The best way to do that is to wear your SPF 365 days a year (or 366 if it’s a leap year!).
The New England Medical Journal published this picture. A photo of a gentleman who had been a delivery truck driver for 28 years. You can see the difference in his face, one side exposed to repeated UVA rays through the glass of his truck, and the other side protected from the rays.
Although an extreme example, this picture demonstrates the damage that can be done to our skin if we’re not taking adequate precautions against UV rays.
Eve Taylor London offer a number of skincare products that include a good broad spectrum SPF so you can protect your skin from sun damage whilst also maintaining a great skincare regime.
For the face:
Moisturising Day Cream SPF30
Daily Skin Defence SPF50
Teen Skin Actives Daytime Defence SPF15
C+ Bright Priming Moisturiser SPF30
Moisturising Solar Shield SPF25
For the lips:
Teen Lip Balm SPF10
Seal and Protect Moisturising Lip Balm SPF10
For the body: Body Shield SPF25
Hand & Nail Rescue Cream SPF20
Get in touch to find out more about what products can help protect your skin or you can head straight to our online shop here.
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