Connie McDonald
Connie McDonald
As spring has arrived and we are enjoying the beautiful warm weather, we know that summer is just around the corner. The Texas heat can be extremely intense and wreak havoc on our skin. Do you currently wear a daily sunscreen or do you even consider it a priority? With so many brands and options on the market, it can be difficult to choose one that is right for you. What should you look for in an effective sunscreen? As a Medical Aesthetician at Argyle Med Spa, I enjoy educating my clients on the importance of a good sunscreen and the benefits it provides. Sunscreen helps provide protection against premature aging, as well as skin cancer.
Broad spectrum sunscreens protect against two types of sun rays that penetrate the atmosphere and are damaging to skin health. UVA or aging rays are consistently strong throughout the year and cause skin wrinkling, discoloration and the loss of elasticity. UVA rays can penetrate clouds, glass and the upper layers of the skin causing damage all year long, even on overcast days. UVB or burning rays are stronger in summer, causing sunburns and skin cancer. They do not penetrate the skin as deeply as UVA rays, but are just as dangerous to our skin health. In order to stay adequately protected, it is recommended to cover all exposed areas. Generally, a nickel-sized amount should be applied to the face and a golf ball size to the body…of course, amounts vary on the individual. If you are swimming or outside for an extended period of time, it is recommended to reapply every two hours. And remember, when applying to the face, don’t forget the ears and back of the neck.
You might be wondering where can you purchase a good quality sunscreen or what kind you need.
Honestly, it’s a personal preference as to what feels good and works well on your skin. You can purchase sunscreens in creams, lotions, fluids and sprays, as well as matte, tinted or ultra-sheer options. If you’re very active and enjoy being outside daily, you might want to choose a sunscreen easy to reapply such as a lotion or spray. Or if you mostly stay inside and want something effective and light, you might choose an ultra-sheer formula. My recommendations would be to invest in one that you will actually use and not let it just sit on the counter. And should you have any questions in finding the right sunscreen, I’m sure your health care professional would be glad to assist you. After all, we want to be content in our skin!
Connie McDonald is a registered aesthetician and is a resident of Robson Ranch. Connie currently works for Argyle Med Spa. For any questions or more information, please visit her website www.Argylemedspa.com.