When it comes to protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful rays, understanding SPF (sun protection factor) is crucial. Local skincare experts at Houppette and Mint & Needle offer their pro tips and product recommendations. To reduce the risk of skin cancer, premature aging, sunspots and more, follow this expert advice.
Why is it important to use products with SPF?
Mint & Needle’s Brandi Gregge shares four key reasons to reach for the tube of sunscreen.
1. It prevents sunburn: SPF helps protect the skin from the harmful effects of UVB rays, which are primarily responsible for sunburn.
2. It can reduce risk of skin cancer: Prolonged exposure to UV radiation increases the risk of developing skin cancer, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.
3. It prevents premature aging: UV rays can cause aging of the skin (think wrinkles, fine lines and age spots).
4. It prevents hyperpigmentation: Sun exposure can lead to uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation, including dark spots and melasma.
“SPF protects your skin from free radical damage and sunburn, which can cause pre-mature photoaging (those pesky sunspots and collagen loss) as well as skin cancer,” Cristi Miller and Lizzie Johnson of Houppette add. All good reasons to slather on a layer of protection, right?
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What are the potential long-term effects and risks of neglecting to use sunscreen?
Gregge shares what can happen if you don’t decide to use sunscreen regularly.
1. Increased risk of skin cancer: One of the most serious risks of not using SPF is an increased chance of developing skin cancer.
2. Premature aging: Long-term exposure to UV rays accelerates the aging process, leading to early development of wrinkles, fine lines and loss of skin elasticity.
3. Hyperpigmentation: Sun exposure can cause persistent dark spots and uneven skin tone, which can be difficult to treat.
4. Sunburn and skin damage: Repeated sunburns can damage the skin, causing pain, peeling and, in severe cases, blistering and scarring.”
“Photodamage is cumulative, and years of those beautiful tans can result in free radical damage and photo-damaged skin as we age,” Johnson and Miller add. “Skin that is protected is healthier and more youthful-looking, not to mention consistently protecting your skin with SPF can reduce your risk of skin cancer.”
Favorite SPF-containing products
“One of our very favorite and best-selling sunscreens is Physical Fusion SPF 50 from Skinceuticals,” Johnson and Miller note. “This non-greasy, broad spectrum mineral sunscreen is lightweight and perfect for daily use and ensuring your skin is properly protected.”
Shop more sunscreen options at Houppette.
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Want more? Here are some top-rated medical-grade SPF products that are great for everyday use, according to Gregge.
1. Mint & Needle Hydrating UV Defense
Why: This broad-spectrum tinted SPF provides excellent protection while hydrating the skin. It’s formulated to be lightweight and non-greasy, making it suitable for all skin types.
2. Mint & Needle Oil Free SPF
Why: The lightweight SPF 45 contains an innovative blend of actives that protects skin from multiple extrinsic factors known to cause premature aging, including UVA, UVB and infrared radiation. For sensitive and acne-prone skin, it contains niacinamide to help calm the skin.
3. EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
Why: This one is ideal for sensitive and acne-prone skin. It’s lightweight and non-comedogenic, and it contains niacinamide to help calm the skin.
4. SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50
Why: This sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection with a lightweight, tinted formula that enhances natural skin tone. It’s also water-resistant and suitable for all skin types.”
Shop more sunscreen options at Mint & Needle.
Related: 4 Mineral Sunscreens to Stock up on for Summer in Delaware
