Spring is bringing us some much-needed sunshine here in the Pacific Northwest. But while we’re soaking up the Vitamin D, we also need to be mindful of the inevitable sun damage that occurs with too much exposure. Luckily, armed with important tips from skincare experts, we can avoid a lot of skin health problems.
Our Xenana Spa estheticians are on the front lines in the battle against sun damage. They have the tools and expertise to help you protect your skin in the first place and to alleviate problems when they occur. Feel free to book your facial appointment through our portal or reach out to us with questions.
Understanding Sun Damage
Before we explore the tips from skincare experts, let’s revisit the nature of sun damage. The sun emits ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which penetrates the skin, creating many harmful effects. UVB rays are the primary culprits for sunburns and contribute to skin cancer. Their partners in crime, UVA rays, penetrate deeper into the skin. They are responsible for premature aging and long-term damage like wrinkles and sunspots.
Sun Damage Control: Tips from Skincare Experts
Sun damage is a fact of life for most people, but the severity of the damage varies significantly. Here are our estheticians’ top tips for preventing and treating sun damage.
Use Daily Sunscreen
Surprising no one, estheticians always stress the importance of wearing sunscreen every day, rain or shine. Sunscreen is the first line of defense for your skin, no matter the weather.
Choose a sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection and an SPF of at least 30 to guard your skin. Be generous in applying it to all exposed areas, including your face, neck, ears, scalp, and hands. This is not the time to skimp! Your skin is worth the time and effort to protect it.
Be sure to reapply at least every two hours when outdoors, especially if you are sweating a lot or swimming. This consistency will go a long way to keeping your skin healthy for a lifetime.
Not sure which sunscreen to choose? Here are our favorites at Xenana:
Eminence Radiant Protection SPF Fluid: This one’s my personal favorite because it’s a serum and SPF all in one. I really like the way it makes my skin look and feel since it’s an all-mineral product with no white cast. This Eminence product provides a beautiful, dewy finish, making it ideal for skin that tends to be dry.
Key Ingredients:
- Bakuchiol: a retinol alternative; smooths skin’s texture to minimize the visible signs of aging
- Niacinamide: Vitamin B3; visibly reduces pore size, retains hydration, supports the skin barrier and smooths uneven texture.
- Zinc Oxide: natural mineral; protects from UVA and UVB rays and soothes dry skin
Coola: This one is great when you want light, sheer coverage but not heavy makeup. It has a beautiful rose scent and includes corrective properties as well.
Rōsilliance® Tinted Moisturizer Organic Sunscreen SPF 30: This product is a sheer SPF 30 moisturizer that boosts the skin’s natural warmth. It has a lightweight finish that gives a hint of glow to your skin. Infused with antioxidant-rich Apothecary Rose Stem Cells, this SPF helps combat free radicals.
Wear Protective Clothing
Protective clothing offers an extra layer of defense against UV rays. Long-sleeved shirts, pants, and wide-brimmed hats help shield your skin from direct sunlight. Wearing these items doesn’t give you a pass on using sunscreen, though. Even with other protections in place, sunscreen is crucial.
Wear Sunglasses
Don’t forget about your eyes! Wearing sunglasses not only reduces the risk of cataracts and other eye conditions. It also helps protect the delicate skin around your eyes so you can avoid wrinkles and lines.
Stay Hydrated
Hydrated skin is more resilient to sun damage and other problems than dry skin. It’s critical to drink plenty of water, not waiting until you feel thirsty. Additionally, moisturizers containing hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid can also help protect your skin. And if you incorporate skincare products that have antioxidants, you get further protection against free radicals from UV exposure.
Take Advantage of Professional Treatments
Estheticians offer a range of expert treatments designed to combat sun damage. These may include LED therapy, dermaplaning, gentle chemical peels, and infusion serums tailored to address your skin’s unique needs and concerns.
Their expertise and experience are the best bet for keeping your skin feeling and looking great, no matter your age. They will assess your skin and talk with you about your concerns and goals before planning a course of treatment. And with top-tier tools and products, they can help you achieve stunning, healthy results.
Get Regular Skin Checks
Schedule regular visits with a dermatologist to monitor for any signs of skin damage or abnormalities. Early detection is key in treating conditions like skin cancer, so don’t neglect this important step in your skincare regimen.
Celebrating Your Skin at Xenana Spa
In the ongoing battle against sun damage, estheticians are invaluable allies. They offer expert guidance and treatments to help you protect and nourish your skin throughout the seasons. By following tips from these skincare experts, you can minimize the harmful effects of UV radiation and maintain healthy, radiant skin for years to come.
The Xenana team of estheticians is eager to help you meet your skincare goals and needs. Schedule an appointment today to get the support you and your skin deserve.
