Have you been giving your clients the right information on protecting themselves from UV damage? You might be surprised to learn what really works, writes Nadia Stennett.
It’s your classic skincare client: fine lines and uneven skin tone sit before you, and you’re just about to launch into your spiel about avoiding UV damage from the ageing rays of the sun. But are you up to scratch on what works and what’s outdated?
What you probably already know
“UVA radiation is known as the ageing rays of the sun because the wavelength penetrates deep into the dermal layers causing irreparable damage to our DNA of our skin cells, including collagen and elastin,” explains The International Dermal Institute (IDI) Asia, Australia & New Zealand education manager, Emma Hobson.
“These structural changes occur in the dermis and appear on the skin’s surface in the form of sagging, loss of elasticity, deep lines and wrinkles and uneven skin tone. Prevention is the best form of treatment and comes in several forms including sun screen, antioxidants, peptides and anti-enzyme ingredient technology,” says Hobson.
“Antioxidants are vital for protection from UVR, and the greatest delivery system for a fresh dose of antioxidants is ‘smart booster technology’; encapsulated vitamins that are released on the surface of the skin when they come into contact with UV rays.”
What you might not know
“Oleosomes are the next generation in sunscreen technology,” says Hobson.
“They are capsules that can be loaded with active substances such as sunscreens that allow a product to deliver high volumes of SPF without the challenges of increased skin sensitisation, and allow for advanced formulating of sunscreen products with improved skin benefits.”
The sun can have an extremely damaging impact on clients’ skin, and Hobson says most people dramatically underestimate how much sunscreen is needed to provide adequate protection.
“Many people apply less than a pea size amount, or worse, expect the light covering of their foundation that includes an SPF to do the job. The Cancer Council recommends you apply about half a teaspoon of SPF15 – 50 on each application and reapply every 2 – 3 hours.”
As for helping your clients choose the right sunscreen, Hobson advises weighing up what form best suits your client’s lifestyle: chemical sunscreens provide versatility in formulation, allowing for invisible coverage, whilst physical sunscreens are ideal for sensitive skin, providing heavy coverage, but can leave a whiteish tone on the skin.
For more information on UVR and its effects on the skin, contact dermalogica@egpr.com.au