The Importance of SPF
Sun protection is essential to keeping your skin healthy. Applying SPF is one of the most critical parts of your skincare routine.
Everyone loves the sun… it makes you feel energetic and provides us with vitamin D and a beautiful glow. However, the effects of UV damage can be both immediate and long-lasting.
As an Aesthetician, one of my best tips for healthy glowing skin is to protect it from sun damage. I have had many clients see improved skin health and appearance simply by taking this advice. In this blog post, I hope to provide some background information on sun protection and how to fit it into your routine.
Methods of Sun Protection
What we do in our daily lives determines how much sun protection we need. While we recommend limiting sun exposure in the afternoon, it’s not always possible, so if you are outside for long periods, you will have to use sunscreen, long sleeve clothing, and a hat or visor.
You can use your daily sunblock if you are not overexposed to the sun or work indoors. You should always use at least an SPF 30 daily because it protects against 97% damaging UV rays.
What is SPF?
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and reflects the total amount of sun protection. The SPF rating considers the various factors contributing to sunburn risk. As stated by the FDA:
“SPF is a measure of how much solar energy (UV radiation) is required to produce sunburn on protected skin (i.e., in the presence of sunscreen) relative to the amount of solar energy required to produce sunburn on unprotected skin. As the SPF value increases, sunburn protection increases.”
What are the benefits?
Reduced risk of skin disease
Minimizes discoloration, both permanent and temporary.
Reduces premature aging (fine lines, wrinkles, etc.)
Less physical damage
Adding an SPF to your routine
Because UV rays can be so damaging, it is necessary and super beneficial to apply an SPF every day. Daily sunscreen use can seem daunting, but there is a reason that your Aesthetician and Dermatologist want you to do it!
Including sun protection in your daily routine is easy! You can use your preferred sunscreen, moisturizer, or makeup that includes SPF. We recommend applying it after your morning skincare routine but before makeup application.
Always check that your products do not have ingredients that can interact with each other. To be sure, you can ask your Aesthetician to help you determine the best way to add in an SPF.
Our recommended products
At Higher Aesthetics, we offer products we have personally used and loved. Our Weightless Protection Broad Spectrum, Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30, and Sheer Tint Broad Spectrum SPF 45. These products are lightweight and effective at protecting your skin from harmful UV rays.
