Before/after - anti-aging sunscreen-effects of too much sun exposure - ATTITUDE

5 ways to elude the effects of too much sun exposure

May 11, 2022

You’re finally getting that beautiful beach day to enjoy your moment in the sun. But if you are not taking the proper measures, including anti-aging sunscreen, your relaxation period can quickly become a session of accelerated skin aging. With our five secrets to protecting your skin, make an informed choice and keep your natural radiance by avoiding the effects of too much sun exposure.

The Dark Side of the Sun

In addition to being the cause of the vast majority of melanoma cases in the world,(1) exposure to sunlight is responsible for 90% of the changes that the skin endures.(2) Shaped by elastin and collagen, two proteins working in unison to give the skin its suppleness, they allow the epidermis to maintain its healthy and thick look. When this precious duo begins to break down from prolonged sun exposure caused by UVA and UVB rays, the damage consists of skin conditions such as spots, wrinkles, fine lines, and loss of elasticity.

The effects of the sun on aging of th skin - anti-aging sunscreen-effects of too much sun exposure - ATTITUDE

It’s impossible to avoid skin aging, but there are ways to slow it down. Even if you follow a few simple tips, you will fill two needs with one deed, also reducing your chances of battling skin cancer, the most common cancer in the country.(3)

5 Secrets to Protect Your Skin from the Sun

1. Use Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen

The skin is the largest organ in the body. It protects us against everything from dehydration and pollution to bacteria and the sun. But even the strongest has its limitations. There are two main UV rays which can damage the skin: UVA and UVB.

UVA Rays

30 to 50 times stronger than UVB rays
Still present during cloudy days and the winter season
Penetrates the deepest layers of the skin
Able to pass through windows
Main source of wrinkles, free radical damage, and premature skin aging

UVB Rays

Affect the top layer of the skin
Main source of sunburn
Can cause sunburn in less than 15 minutes
Damage DNA in the skin
Strongly linked to skin cancer

The first secret is an anti-aging sunscreen known as broad spectrum, which is capable of guarding against these sunrays. Amongst the sun filters that meet this criterion, there is non-nano zinc oxide. Derived from natural and mineral sources, zinc oxide acts differently than chemical filters by creating a physical barrier that prevents UV rays from penetrating the skin. Due to its gentleness on the body and the ocean, it’s been deemed safe by experts at the Environmental Working Group.(4)

Sunscreen stick - anti-aging sunscreen-effects of too much sun exposure - ATTITUDE

At ATTITUDE, all sunscreens are made with non-nano zinc oxide. Our plastic-free skincare collection includes a selection of Mineral Sun Sticks with SPF 30 that are suitable for all skin tones and types. What are some of our favorites?

Tinted mineral sun stick – Offers optimal protection while regaining brilliant complexion in no time.
Odourless mineral sun stick – Hypoallergenic, vegan and packed with naturally sourced ingredients like shea butter and coconut oil that are gentle on skin and the ocean.

Tinted and white sunscreen stick - anti-aging sunscreen-effects of too much sun exposure - ATTITUDE

Along with being offered in biodegradable cardboard tubes, both are easy to apply and don’t leave bothersome residues. Zero plastic, zero white marks, zero sunburn!

2. Apply Sunscreen Daily

No excuses. And not just for those long bike rides or sunny afternoons at the pool. Even on a cloudy day, it only takes a mere fifteen minutes for UV rays to damage the skin and advance the signs of skin aging.(5) In fact, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, your skin is responsible for absorbing more than 75% of UV rays while the clouds filter less than 25%.(6) Also, remember to reapply a layer of sunscreen every two hours or after swimming, showering, or exercising to avoid the effects of too much sun exposure.

3. Pay Close Attention to Your Hands and Face

Woman try sunscreen stick - anti-aging sunscreen-effects of too much sun exposure - ATTITUDE

Due to being particularly thin-skinned areas, the back of the hands and the face are the most sensitive to the sun. Give them a bit of extra consideration by finding sunscreen products designed specifically for them. For instance, within our plastic-free sun care collection, we have a tinted mineral sunscreen for the face that offers broad spectrum protection and enhances the skin’s natural glow. With its lightweight texture and universal shade, it’s the perfect companion for those hot summer days (and every other day of course).

4. Wear a Wide-Brimmed Hat and Sunglasses

It’s a good thing bucket hats are making their way back into fashion! Now there’s no need to sacrifice your style to stay safe. For sunglasses, search for labels that have UVA and UVB protection – these are simple to find. Basic all-purpose sunglasses block between 60% and 92% of visible light and UVA and between 95% and 99% of UVB.(7) The better protected your eyes are, the less you squint; the less you squint, the slower the appearance of crow’s feet! And nobody wants crow’s feet on their face.

5. Avoid Exposure to Direct Sunlight Between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.

Easier said than done. We all like to take midday breaks to recharge and get ready for the second half of the day. If you do, look for places with lots of shade: a patio, a gazebo, or a park with towering trees. The higher the sun is in the sky, the stronger the UVB rays,(8) which are closely linked to skin cancer.

By using anti-aging sunscreen and applying these safety measures, you can avoid the effects of too much sun exposure and keep your skin smooth and tight. Adhere to our comprehensive solar guide to learn all about how to safely protect your skin from the sun.

Sources

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