Winnipeg's Downtown Aveda Spa Salon
Frequently Asked Questions - Skin Care
Do I really need to use a sunblock all the time?
I would highly recommend it but you can decide for yourself after reading the following information about the sun's ultraviolet rays, their effect on the skin, and ways that you can protect yourself.
Ultraviolet Rays
The sun emits ultraviolet (UV) radiation in the form of UVA and UVB rays. (UVC rays are also emitted but they don't penetrate the earth's ozone layer.)
- UVA rays are also called the "aging rays". They contribute 90%-95% of the UV rays that reach the earth's surface. These rays weaken the skin's collagen and elastic fibers, causing wrinkles and sagging in the tissues.
- UVB rays, also referred to as the "burning rays", cause tanning or burning of the skin. They don't penetrate the skin as deeply as UVA rays and they contribute to the body's synthesis of Vitamin D and other important minerals.
- Exposure to both UVA and UVB rays can lead to skin cancer.
Sun Protection Factor (SPF)
Many products today contain ingredients that protect the skin from UV exposure by absorbing or reflecting UV rays. A unit of measurement called the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) expresses the strength of protection. SPF indicates how much longer you can stay in the sun without burning compared with using no protection. For example, SPF 15 allows you to stay out 15 times longer and SPF 30 allows for 30 times longer.
Sunscreens and sunblocks both protect against UV exposure. Sunscreens work by absorbing UV rays while sunblocks reflect them. Some sunblocks contain zinc oxide and titanium oxide that may leave a whitish residue on your skin because the particles are larger. Shop around for a product that's right for your needs.
One product doesn't fit all. For a day at the beach, your sunscreen (or sunblock) should be heavier and greasier than your lighter daily moisturizer with SPF. Read the labels and choose a broad-spectrum product that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. It's essential to liberally apply the product to all exposed areas, including toes and ears.
Other Facts About the Sun and Your Skin
- Avoid exposure, if possible, between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. when the sun's rays are the strongest.
- Darker skin types are more prone to having issues with dark spots (hyper-pigmentation) from exposure to the sun.
- The average person gets 18 hours a week of sunshine just walking between buildings and the car, going to and from work, walking the dog, etc.
- Ninety percent of the sun's UV rays can penetrate light cloud layers.
- Fresh snow can reflect 80% of UV light.
