WTF is the UV Index?
Alright, sun lovers and shade seekers, let’s unravel the mystery of the UV index in a slightly less serious, but still totally quirky way. Buckle up, because we're about to take a journey into the world of sun safety and UV! So... What exactly is the UV Index? The UV index, or ultraviolet index, is a measure of the strength of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun at a particular place and time. It's typically expressed on a scale from 0 to 11 or higher, with higher numbers indicating greater potential for harm from unprotected sun exposure. It is calculated by a number of different factors, such as the sun angle, ozone layer, cloud cover, altitude, latitude and the time of day. Decoding the UV Index It's like having a friendly neighbourhood UV superhero looking out for your skin. Knowing the UV index helps you gauge how frequently you need to be applying SPF and whether the day calls for a bit more shade than normal. Decoding the UV Index Levels: Low (0-2): The sun’s still sipping its morning coffee. Fair-skinned friends, proceed with caution. Moderate (3-5): The sun’s stretching its rays and saying hello. Time to whip out that SPF and don your favourite sunhat. High (6-7): The sun’s cranking up the heat! Break out the sunscreen and shade-seeking tactics. Very High (8-10): The sun’s showing off its A-game. Seek shade, rock those shades and slather on sunscreen like it’s your job. Extreme (11+): Danger, danger! UV levels are off the charts. It's a stay-indoors-if-you-can kind of day, but if you can’t, go full SPF warrior mode. So, the next time you spy that UV index, remember: it's not just a number; it’s your guide to sun safety, helping you navigate the sunny side of life with sufficient SPF.
Ever Heard Of This Australian Super Fruit?
Well it seems we’ve found the fountain of youth, right here in our backyard! We’re talking about Kakadu plum of course, the world’s richest source of Vitamin C which is pretty impressive considering we’re talking about one single fruit. It’s exploded in popularity for skin and hair care recently so we’re taking a deep dive on this super fruit ingredient. Where Does Kakadu Plum Grow? The Kakadu plum, also known as the billygoat plum or green plum, is a small almond-size fruit that’s native to the northern Australia outback. It takes less than five years for a tree to bear fruit from a seed in the Kimberly region, Arnhem Land and Kakadu National Park. Growing in the harsh Australian climate the yellow and green fruit produces powerful antioxidants that protect itself from heat, drought, flood and sun exposure. Interest in Australian native ingredients has meant the fruit has gone viral, giving Indigenous communities the opportunity to create business on Country. With it growing in some of the most inaccessible areas of Australia, the fruit is handpicked from March to May by Aboriginals who draw on generations of traditional knowledge when it comes to caring for the land and this flowering plant. Is Kakadu Plum A Superfood? Kakadu plum is a super antioxidant that has amazing benefits for your hair, nails and skin. It has some of the highest recorded levels of Vitamin C of any fruit in the world as well as containing antioxidants, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, potassium and dietary fibre. Traditionally, the fruit was eaten raw as part of the Aboriginal diet but their flavor is a little on the sour side. These days you can get Kakadu plum that’s been freeze dried and crushed into a concentrated powder as a nutritional supplement. Due to its strength, you only need 1g of freeze dried Kakadu plum powder to match the Vitamin C content found in an entire orange. Oh and before we forget, it also has the same amount of folate and iron as broccoli, now that’s what we call edible beauty. What Is Kakadu Plum Used For? This vitamin bomb has been wild harvested by First Nations people for tens of thousands of years where it was used as a traditional medicine to boost the immune system, treat ailments like skin inflammation, soothe aching limbs and bug bites, and rid headaches and colds. The leaves and inner bark from the Kakadu plum tree were also boiled in hot water as a bush tea to relax and help the digestive system. How does that age old saying go, a plum a day will keep the doctor away? This Top End wonder is now commonly used in cosmetics as it can reduce the skin’s inflammatory response to light which helps dark spots, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and overall dullness. This leaves you with a balanced skin tone so you’re glowing with radiance and luminosity! What Are The Benefits Of Kakadu Plum? The humble orange can move right over because there’s a new kid on the block called Kakadu plum. It contains 55 times more Vitamin C than an orange with Kakadu plum containing 3700 mg of Vitamin C per 100g, talk about an overachiever! Your body doesn’t naturally produce or store Vitamin C so it’s essential that you regularly get it from other sources, such as your diets and skincare. It’s a necessary component in the building blocks of collagen which increases skin suppleness while also improving iron absorption and heart health, boosting immunity, reducing oxidant stress and encouraging cognitive function. A single Kakadu plum also has five times the amount of antioxidants found in blueberries so it plays an important role in protecting your skin from environmental damage, such as UV radiation and pollution. When used in skincare it helps fight free radical damage by supporting your skin’s natural regeneration process to help your body repair damaged skin cells that can lead to fine lines and other signs of aging. It’s thought that free radicals often cause oxidative stress in the body too which can increase the risk of developing health conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Just to top it off it’s also packed with ellagic acid which is a powerful antioxidant that contains anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and prebiotic properties. What Does Kakadu Plum Extract Do For Skin? We’ve mentioned what a winner Vitamin C is for the body but we’ll let you in on another secret, it’s one of the top anti-ageing ingredients you can apply to your skin. Kakadu plum contains ellagic acid which sounds scary but actually plays a huge role in your skin health and collagen production thanks to it putting a halt on wrinkles and inflammation from UV exposure. It works to increase skin elasticity and firmness through collagen synthesis where Vitamin C is the essential factor for two important enzymes: Prolyl hydroxylase which balances the collagen molecule. Lysyl hydroxylase which provides structural strength. As an anti-aging treatment you can see why it’s one of our favourite ingredients! If you want to add a little more to your diet you can also get ellagic acid from strawberries, almonds and walnuts. Your skin is your body’s first line of defense so homegrown Kakadu plum can help restore your skin’s natural barrier that protects it from harmful toxins. The active nutrient ellagic acid gets to work by putting the brakes on melanogenesis which reduces pigmentation and dark spots. Its anti-inflammatory properties are also useful when you’re trying to treat psoriasis, eczema and rosacea. Overall it improves your skin texture and renews your complexion which will leave your skin feeling nourished and restored so it appears more supple and youthful. How To Add Kakadu Plum To Your Skincare Routine Although you’re probably getting enough Vitamin C in your diet, there’s no way to guarantee it’s going straight to your skin. Vitamin C can be as unstable as Rachel and Ross’ relationship so being sensitive to light and air means it can break down quickly. This makes it best used in facial oils and serums, like esmi’s Pomegranate Brightening Serum and Sunrise Skin Energising Acai Duo, as these products tend to be absorbed more deeply into the skin thanks to how lightweight they are. We’re not beating around the bush when it comes to adding Kakadu plum to Sun Skill’s sunscreen because your skin is the most exposed organ you have. Kakadu plum has developed a natural resistance to the harsh effects of the sun that can be passed on to your skin, giving you an SPF-booster against harmful UV rays. The natural ellagic acid properties also prevent UVB rays from destroying collagen while putting a stop to the enzyme tyrosinase which is the first step in melanin production. Our Sun Skills for ALL SPF 50+ face and body sunscreen is formulated with enriching vitamin E and native Kakadu plum to protect against free radicals while high aloe vera content boosts hydration and moisturisation, perfect for the whole family. The lightweight and fast-absorbing sunscreen leaves your skin feeling soft and smooth, drying without a white cast for a natural finish that makes it ideal for daily use. Is Kakadu Plum Good For Acne? If Kakadu plum extract is formulated in your cosmetics, it can make all the difference when it comes to healing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and brightening your skin. Gallic and ellagic acid are two polyphenols that have antibacterial properties which can work to reduce redness and remove acne-causing bacteria while calming and hydrating your skin. The high concentration of Vitamin C means it can combat acne scarring with its brightening and anti-aging properties which makes it an ideal ingredient for your favourite everyday SPF.
The Ultimate Guide To Summer Skin Care
Summer VS Winter Skin Care Summer and winter are two very different seasons with different weather conditions that require different skincare routines. In summer, heat and humidity can cause your skin to produce more oil and sweat which can easily clog pores and cause breakouts. This is where exfoliation can help keep your skin clear and balanced while a lightweight moisturiser and hydrating mist can give your skin a boost without feeling heavy or greasy. In winter, cold and dry air can cause your skin to become sensitive, irritated and lose moisture. You’ll want to start using a gentle exfoliant, like esmi’s Fresh Sea & Salty Sand Gentle-Foliant, once a week and switch to thicker creams and oils to seal in hydration while preventing dryness and skin flaking. Whatever the weather or season, sunscreen is essential when it comes to protecting your skin from harmful UV rays that can cause sunburn, skin damage and skin cancer. How Much Sun Exposure Is Safe Without Sunscreen? We hate to break it to you but there’s actually no such thing as a safe amount of sun exposure without sunscreen! Any exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun, even briefly during peak hours, means you’re at risk of skin cancer and premature ageing. The amount of time it takes for skin damage to occur depends on several factors such as your skin type, the time of day and the season but it’s important to remember that your skin has a memory so ten, twenty and thirty years from now your skin will show the results of how it was treated today. What Is The Safest Time To Be In The Sun? In Australia, the safest time to be outside enjoying the sunshine is early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the sun's rays are less intense. It’s actually recommended that you avoid being outside between 10 AM and 3 PM during summer months as this is when the sun's rays are the strongest and can cause the most damage. The intensity of the sun's rays depends on several factors such as the time of day, season, location and weather conditions so it’s never a bad idea to check the UV index before heading out. Remember that even on cloudy and overcast days, the sun's UV radiation can still be strong and cause skin damage so it’s important to make sun care part of your self-care ritual every day. What Skin Care Products Should I Use? If you don’t have any morning rituals or just need to restock your favourites, adding these products to your AM skincare routine will help you invest in your biggest organ, your skin! The secret to your future is hidden in your daily routine so it’s never too early or too late to start treating your skin well. esmi Skin Treat Treat yourself to a mini morning facial at home with esmi’s collection of face serums, oils and skin treats. Formulated with natural and plant-based active ingredients, they target specific skin concerns whether you want to protect and repair, hydrate, moisturise or brighten! Serums and facial oils are perfect for delivering hydration to the deeper layers of your skin because they’re lightweight and quickly absorbed. esmi’s Skin Treats can address different concerns like the Pomegranate Brightening Serum for lightening pigmentation or the Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum for replenishing hydration. Don’t be afraid to layer them, just remember to apply them from thinnest to thickest. esmi Moisturiser If you’re a better person when you’re moisturised then maintain a healthy attitude and skin barrier with esmi’s collection of moisturisers. Sun spots, acne scarring and wrinkles can make your skin look and act older than it is so these are the best vegan moisturisers for staying hydrated and encouraging better skin health. Packed with active ingredients, esmi’s moisturisers form a protective barrier from environmental stressors like pollution, wind and cold weather while hydrating your skin for a plump and youthful complexion. Day moisturisers tend to be lighter so you can layer them under makeup without feeling greasy, there’s a moisturiser for every skin type whether you need a Firming Moisturiser or a Sensitive Moisturiser. Sun Skills SPF Sun Skills range of clean skin-loving SPF 50+ face, neck and décolletage sunscreens are designed to protect your skin from harmful UV damage while preventing premature ageing. The best sunscreen for acne-prone skin is Sun Skills For SENSITIVE, formulated with delicate skin in mind to help strengthen your skin’s barrier with a fragrance-free finish for daily use. The best face sunscreen to wear under makeup is the mango-scented Sun Skills For HER that dries with a clean finish so you don’t have to worry about chemical-induced breakouts or that ghost-like white cast. Face sunscreen is essential for preventing darkening spots and hyperpigmentation, avoiding uneven skin tone and reducing the risk of skin cancer so it’s important to wear it year-round, yes even in winter. Remember that nothing looks better in your fifties than sunscreen in your twenties! esmi’s Skin Snack Mist Summer sweat and humidity might make you think your skin feels moisturised but the sun has a way of drying it out that sometimes leaves you needing a little boost from the outside. Replenish and refresh your skin with esmi’s Refreshing and Hydrating Skin Snack Face Mist, formulated to protect your skin from free radicals and maintain youthful elasticity. This hydrating face mist contains hyaluronic acid and raspberry extract to hydrate and plump your skin by drawing in moisture from your environment. A facial mist can provide a refreshing and cooling sensation, especially on hot and humid days which makes it perfect for all skin types needing an on-the-go boost when you’re exposed to air conditioning, UV light, wind and weather. Make suncare part of your skincare ritual with clean suncare bundles from Sun Skills and esmi Skin Minerals. Packed with everything you need to fill your bathroom, beauty bag and beach basket from our Double Defence Bundle to our Fresh Face Bundle. For a limited time only, you can also complement your skin-loving sun protection ritual with our super cute terry towel bucket hat! Exclusive to our bundles, this everyday accessory comes in light sage green with a soft jacquard chequered print so you’re sun safe and stylish.
What Is The UV Index?
You’ve probably heard how harmful the sun’s rays are but what is the UV index and how does it actually work? The UV index measures the strength of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. It was designed to educate you about the level of UV radiation you might be exposed to and encourage you to be sun safe by wearing SPF 50+ sunscreen and being a shade seeker. The UV index scale goes from 1 to 11 so, as you probably guessed, the higher the UV index the greater the risk of harm from UV radiation. Because UV rays can’t be seen or felt, you might be wondering how it’s calculated. Well, measurements are actually taken based on the amount of UV radiation reaching the earth’s surface while taking into account factors such as the time of day, altitude and cloud cover. We know you probably have a ton of questions about the UV index and how you can plan your sun care and skin care around the weather, so let’s get right into it. When Is UV Highest? The intensity of UV radiation varies throughout the day and can be easily influenced by the time of year, latitude, altitude and cloud cover. In general, the UV index is highest during the middle of the day which is when the sun is at its highest point in the sky and the rays are most direct and intense. During the summer months, the UV index is typically higher because the days are longer and the angle of the sun is higher in the sky. At high latitudes, like in the northern hemisphere, the UV index can be particularly high thanks to the reflection of UV radiation off snow and ice. Can The UV Index Be High When It’s Cloudy? So yes, this means that the UV index can be high even when it's cloudy. While clouds can reduce the amount of radiation reaching you, UV rays can still penetrate them so don't completely block them out. This means it’s still possible to get sunburned and be at risk of other harmful effects from the sun like premature skin ageing. It's always a good idea to take precautions to protect your skin from the sun, regardless of the time of day and cloud cover. Make sun protection part of your morning ritual by applying Sun Skills for HER SPF 50+ under your makeup. Enriched with native Kakadu plum to protect your skin against free radicals, the fast-absorbing formula dries with a clean finish so you can wear it daily without worrying about chemical-induced breakouts. Why Is The UV Index In Australia So High? If you live in the land down under, you probably know how hot and humid those Australian summers can be. Well, that’s all thanks to Australia being closer to the equator than most other countries meaning it receives a higher amount of UV radiation. Oh and there’s also a hole in the ozone over the Antarctic which has an impact on the UV levels experienced in Australia. I know it seems like we’re miles from arctic polar bears and ice caps but this hole actually lets more UV radiation reach the earth's surface. What UV Index Level Is Safe? It might seem overwhelming but we’re here to break some bad news, there’s actually no UV index level that is completely safe! Any exposure to UV radiation can have harmful effects on your health over time whether it’s sunburn, skin aging or an increased risk of skin cancer. Lower levels of UV radiation are generally considered to be less harmful than higher levels which means it’s generally safe to be outside without any precautions if the index is 0 to 2. For UV index levels of 3 to 7, it’s recommended to protect your skin from the sun by wearing protective clothing, using SPF 50+ sunscreen and seeking shade when possible. Once the index is between 8 and 11, things start to get a lot more serious so it’s especially important to take sun-safe precautions as your skin can burn in just minutes. You’ll also want to be mindful of the UV rays reflecting off surfaces like water, sand and snow as these can also increase your exposure to UV radiation. What UV Index Is Best For Tanning? This is where things get really serious so make sure to listen up, it’s never recommended to intentionally tan. Unless it’s from the bottle, there’s actually no such thing as a healthy natural tan. Your skin darkens in response to the damage caused by ultraviolet radiation so it’s trying to protect itself from further harm, take a moment to let that sink in. Whether you’re tanning from the sun or from a tanning bed, it can have harmful long-term effects on your health including sunburn, premature skin ageing (yikes) and an increased risk of developing deadly skin cancer like melanoma. Even with sun protection, it’s never a bad idea to limit your exposure to the sun, especially during the middle of the day when UV levels are at their highest. Instead of trying to get a tan, it's better to focus on protecting your skin from the sun and practicing a healthy skincare routine with clean Australian products. What UV Index Level Should You Avoid? It's a good idea to take precautions to protect your skin from the sun at all UV index levels but it's especially important to avoid extended exposure when the index levels are 8 to 11. High to extreme levels of UV radiation can cause sunburn in as little as 15 minutes, so sunscreen and sun protective clothing like your favourite bucket hat and sunglasses are a must! An easy way to tell how much UV exposure you’re getting is to look at your shadow, if it’s taller than you then your exposure is likely to be lower. If your shadow is shorter than you, usually around midday, then you’re likely being exposed to high levels of UV radiation. What UV Index Needs Sunscreen? It’s recommended to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF rating every morning, regardless of the UV index level. Finding a weightless SPF 50+ face, neck and decolletage sunscreen that suits your skin type means you’ll actually want to wear it every day. Whether you’re layering under makeup or wearing for daily anti-ageing protection there’s a Sun Skills solution for every day of the week and season. Choose Sun Skills For SENSITIVE if you need to keep delicate skin smiling, or Sun Skills For ALL if you’re after something for the whole family. Just don’t forget to reapply liberally every two hours if you’re sweating or swimming!
How To Stay Skin Safe This Summer
Summer is finally here which means you’re spending more time outside in the sunshine and baking on the beach, but have you noticed recently how your skin has changed throughout the seasons? Summer skin can see you experiencing various changes in your complexion thanks to all that exposure to the sun’s damaging UV rays, heat and humidity. The summer months can affect your skin and body in several ways, so consider this your insider guide to exactly what happens to your skin and how you can continue glowing. What Happens To Your Skin In Summer? You might be wondering how the sun really damages your skin, I mean you can’t see or feel the sun’s rays right? There are actually two main types of UV from the sun that can cause damage to your skin: UVA Radiation - This bores deep into the skin, causing long-term damage as it breaks down collagen and elastin fibres. Ultimately this leads to premature ageing, leathery skin texture, wrinkles and dark spots thanks to the triggered production of melanin. UVB Radiation - This is solely responsible for sunburn and is the primary cause of skin cancer, yikes! As if you needed to add to the long list above when your skin is exposed to UV radiation it also triggers the production of free radicals. This can damage your skin cells and their DNA while weakening your skin's immune system, making it more vulnerable to other types of damage and disease. Sun damage can also increase your risk of skin cancer and other skin conditions, such as pre-cancerous growths and actinic cheilitis which is a condition that affects the lips. Sun damage accumulates over time so it's important to protect your skin from the sun at all times, especially during the summer months when the sun is at its strongest. Here at Sun Skills, we always think it’s best to prevent sun damage in the first place by simply practicing good sun protection habits. How To Help Oily Skin In Summer Oily skin can be a challenge during the summer months, as heat and humidity can make your oil glands more active. Soaring temperatures may also mean you’re breaking out in sweat more often than not as your body naturally tries to cool itself down and regulate your temperature by producing oil. You can start managing your oily skin by cleansing regularly with esmi’s best-selling The Uncomplicated Cleanser. Washing your face twice a day during summer with a gentle cream cleanser will help remove excess oil and impurities while antioxidant properties leave it feeling balanced and supple. It's important to avoid over-cleansing as this can actually strip your skin of its natural oils and trigger even more oil production, you heard it here first! After you’ve cleansed, why not clear the dead skin and increase blood circulation with esmi’s Fresh Sea & Salty Sand Gentle-Foliant? Gently exfoliating the skin once or twice a week can help fight congestion and keeps oily skin feeling fresh and looking clear! With antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, this exfoliant is ideal for oily and breakout-prone skin. You follow this with a light, oil-free moisturiser that will hydrate the skin without adding extra oil. We know you might be tempted to skip the face moisturiser considering how much you’ve been sweating but this is actually a mistake. You’ll likely find your skin is less greasy if you’ve applied a lightweight moisturiser so reach for esmi’s Detox Hydra-Fluid Moisturiser. Designed to protect your skin from environmental stressors and pollutants that contribute to premature aging, it’s ideal for congested or oily skin. Whatever products you decide to use, it’s important to stick to a consistent skincare routine and be patient as it can take time to see results when you’re managing oily skin and battling nature's elements. Why Your Skin Becomes Darker In Summer While you might love honey-kissed skin for the holidays, you should be tanning more from a bottle and burning less from the sun. Your skin actually becomes darker in the summer due to increased exposure to the sun's UV rays which then triggers the production of melanin. This is the pigment that gives your skin colour and absorbs UV radiation to prevent it from damaging your skin cells. If you’ve noticed age spots or sun spots, this is actually uneven melanin production on skin that has been exposed to the sun for extended periods such as your face, hands and arms. To keep melanin production at bay it's important to protect your complexion with skin-loving sun protection. Reach for Sun Skills For ALL SPF 50+ to protect your face, neck and décolletage with a lightweight and fast-absorbing sunscreen that leaves your skin feeling soft and smooth. It’s perfect for daily use with enriching vitamin E and native Kakadu plum to protect against free radicals! UV light actually exacerbates pigment problems so if you’re already noticing the formation of dark spots, look for topical sun-damaged skin treatments to help improve the appearance of your skin by promoting cell renewal, reducing fine lines and wrinkles and improving skin texture. Some of the best skin care products to use for sun-damaged skin are: Vitamin C Serums - Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help brighten sun-damaged skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Add esmi’s Pomegranate Brightening Serum to your morning routine to lighten your skin with powerful melanin inhibitors that improve pigmentation and enhance skin luminosity. Retinols - Can help stimulate collagen production, improve the appearance of sun-damaged skin and lessen the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. You might think you can’t use a retinol serum in the summertime because it makes your skin more sensitive to the sun’s UV rays but it should actually only ever be applied at night so all the hard work is done while you sleep. Some people find that retinol can increase dryness within their skin when introducing it to their regimen so increased humidity means that summer is actually the perfect time to use it! If you’re new to retinol, give esmi’s Encapsulated Retinol 0.25% Level 1 a try. Hyaluronic Acid - Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance that can help to hydrate and plump the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Shop esmi’s award-winning Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum to combat dehydration, repair skin and regulate oil flow so you’ve got skin with bounce! How To Protect Your Skin From The Sun In Summer Sun damage is the number one cause of skin ageing and cancer risk so it’s important to protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun throughout the entire year. Instead of skipping SPF because you’re worried about a greasy formula that leaves you looking like Casper’s best friend, choose a clean SPF 50+ sunscreen like Sun Skills For HER if you’re layering under makeup or Sun Skills For SENSITIVE if your skin is easily irritated. We’ve left the nasties out of our formulations and only added skin-loving ingredients so you’re nourished by nature. By committing to upping your sun protection game this summer and making daily sunscreen application part of your self-care ritual, you’re protecting your skin from further sun damage and skin cancer! Another way to protect your skin is to be a shameless shade seeker by limiting your exposure to the sun during peak hours and setting up your favourite umbrella. Cover up on those walks down to the beach with those cute long linen pants that you’ve been eyeing off and wear a matching straw hat. Better yet, why not add one of our bundles to the cart for a free super-cute terry towel bucket hat? Whether you’re on the small sunglasses trend or you’re into the cat eye shape, wear sunglasses to protect your eyes and the delicate skin around them from the sun's harmful rays. Even with proper sun protection, it's still possible to get sunburnt so it’s important to always be aware of the strength of the sun and adjust your protection accordingly. Don’t let sunburn sideline your summer fun, reach for our Sun Skills After Sun Gel instead! After sun lotions are specifically formulated to soothe and hydrate sun-exposed skin while helping to prevent peeling. Packed with hydrating ingredients and restorative properties, our After Sun Gel is enriched with hyaluronic acid to replenish skin's water content and instantly boost hydration so you can feel as cool as a cucumber. When it comes to after sun gels, you’ll want to steer clear of any formulas that contain alcohol as they can dry out and further irritate sunburned skin, ouch! It's also important to remember that using an after-sun lotion is not a substitute for proper sun protection so you always need to apply sunscreen and seek the shade, there are no excuses!
Which Sunscreen Is Best For Your Face?
If you aren’t obsessed with SPF then you should be because it’s your new anti-aging secret and one of the most important steps of your morning skincare routine. It’s known for preventing premature aging, stopping sun spots in their tracks and actively decreasing your risk of skin cancer when worn daily. If you’ve been wondering what the best sunscreen for your face is, we’ve developed a guide to help you choose the best SPF formula for your skin type. Why SPF For Your Face Matters You might think SPF for your face can be skipped over, I mean it feels greasy and blocks your pores right? Wrong! You’ve probably been using the wrong formula if sunscreen leaves your skin feeling that way. You might not realise it but 80% of UV light can travel through clouds no matter what the weather is so even if you don’t have a family history of skin cancer or live somewhere that sees sunshine 365 days a year, wearing sunscreen on your face daily is crucial. Regardless of your skin type or the season, clean sunscreen can actively protect your skin from harmful UV rays, safeguard your skin against visible signs of ageing, reduce uneven skin tones and contribute to the overall health of your skin. How to Choose The Right Sunscreen for Your Skin Type Most people don’t actually know what sunscreen is right for their skin type so they end up choosing a formula that doesn’t look or feel right for their skin. That’s why we’ve developed a range of weightless SPF 50+ face, neck and décolletage sunscreens that suit all skin types whether you’re layering under makeup or wearing for daily anti-ageing protection. What’s The Best Sunscreen To Wear Under Makeup? If you’re thinking about adding an anti-ageing step to your skincare ritual, you can’t go past Sun Skills For HER. With a fast-absorbing formula that dries with a clean finish, you can wear this SPF daily without worrying about chemical-induced breakouts or that white cast. We guarantee that your skin will thank you for this weightless, silky-smooth and moisturising sunscreen that leaves you with a naturally fresh glow. Enriched with native Kakadu plum to protect your skin against free radicals, it’s perfect for all skin types especially if you’re layering under makeup. Choosing a face sunscreen that you apply after your serums and moisturiser is a better option than relying solely on your makeup with only a small SPF element. Makeup isn’t always applied evenly, often rubs off easily and isn’t normally applied to places that need it most like your ears and décolletage. Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin When choosing a sunscreen for sensitive skin it’s important to look for an SPF that’s either suitable for all skin types or for sensitive skin specifically. Sun Skills For SENSITIVE is a gentle, weightless and fragrance-free sunscreen that’s designed to keep sensitive skin smiling. If your skin is easily irritated, this sheer touch protective formula will help strengthen your skin's barrier while nourishing and hydrating your complexion with natural aloe vera and vitamin E. Skipping sunscreen because you have acne-prone skin isn’t going to cut it with us, especially when sun protection can actually help your breakouts. Think about it, when you get a sunburn your skin then becomes red and inflamed right? This means any acne you have already may look worse and even cause scarring. This is where a sensitive non-comedogenic SPF comes in, Sun Skills For SENSITIVE dries with a natural finish that balances your skincare ritual without clogging pores or irritating skin. Sunscreen For Dry Skin If you have dry skin and don’t know where to start with facial SPF then it’s important that you check your products for nourishing and hydrating ingredients. Any clean skincare products that add additional moisture to your skin are beneficial, especially as sun damage can be extra harsh on dry skin. Two superior ingredients that you should be looking out for in your daily sunscreen are hyaluronic acid and aloe vera. Hyaluronic acid improves your skin’s natural moisturising factors while aloe vera encourages skin cell regeneration and is packed with anti-inflammatory properties. esmi’s Skin Shield Sunscreen SPF 30 is a silky smooth mineral face sunscreen that’s enriched with hydrating ingredients like aloe vera, hyaluronic acid and even carrot root oil. This makes it the perfect facial SPF for those with dry skin as the creamy texture feels comfortable under makeup and blends effortlessly to provide maximum coverage. What Is The Best Sunscreen for Your Face As you may have guessed, Sun Skills range of clean sunscreens is your go-to no matter what your skin type is. We believe good things come to those who practice sun care so trusting us with your skin means you’re protected from harmful UV damage and premature aging. Choose skin-loving sun protection today so you can future-proof your skin and bask in golden hour with a naturally fresh glow.
Mineral VS Chemical Sunscreen
You know sun protection is a must in your morning routine but the terms sunblock and sunscreen are used so interchangeably it can be hard to know the difference. Choosing sun protection can sometimes feel overwhelming and confusing but leave it to us to put your mind, and skin, at ease with our guide to mineral and chemical sunscreens. How Does Mineral Sunscreen Work? Mineral sunblock is any product that derives its sun protection from active mineral ingredients, like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. When you hear the word ‘zinc’ you probably think of the thick coloured paste you slathered on your face in your younger days but zinc oxide is actually a gentler option for sensitive skin. It works by forming a physical barrier against ultraviolet radiation that reflects light rays away from the skin while also being soothing and healing. You might spot it on the shelves as inorganic sunblock, mineral or physical SPF. It gets to action straight away because it doesn’t need to absorb to be effective, however this also means it’s likely to wash away so you’ll need to reapply more often, especially when sweating or swimming. You can easily apply it on top of other skincare products which makes it less irritating if you have sensitive skin, melasma, rosacea or eczema. How Does Chemical Sunscreen Work? Chemical sunscreen is any product that uses certain chemical compounds to protect against the sun. Octocrylene is a common chemical sunscreen ingredient that absorbs both UVA and UVB rays to provide broad spectrum protection to underlying skin cells while oxybenzone absorbs UVB radiation and helps the sunscreen spread more evenly on your skin so you’ve got better coverage. Chemical sunscreens work like a sponge to absorb UVA and UVB rays before they reach your skin. Once the UV light is absorbed, the ingredients in the sunscreen create a chemical reaction that converts UV light to heat. Each time a UV ray causes this reaction a molecule of chemical sunscreen is destroyed, which is why you need to reapply as you’ll run out of chemical sunscreen molecules on your skin. The key to a chemical sunscreen working is its absorption so it needs time to bind with the top layer of your skin which is why we recommend applying 15-30 minutes before sun exposure. It tends not to leave a white cast because it’s thinner and spreads more easily, making it perfect for oily or acne-prone skin. Is Chemical Sunscreen Safe? We love rumours as much as the next Gossip Girl but safety concerns around chemical sunscreens only exist because the ingredients are absorbed through the skin. Let’s look on the wild side here, water is actually a chemical but it’s something our bodies depend on for survival! It’s important to remember that any SPF products or sunscreens that have unsafe chemicals are banned from being produced. Using a chemical sunscreen doesn’t increase any risk of UV damage to your complexion and there are far more proven health risks if you choose to skip sun protection, we’re talking permanent damage to your skin and deadly melanoma here. How Do You Know If Sunscreen Is Chemical Or Mineral? Sunscreen is highly regulated in Australia so to check if you’re purchasing chemical or mineral sun protection, flip to the back of the bottle and check the active ingredients. If you see either zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, it’s a mineral-based sunscreen. It’s a chemical sunscreen if it lists other active ingredients like avobenzone, oxybenzone, octocrylene, homosalate, octisalate or octinoxate. Does Sunscreen Expire? Sunscreen usually does expire thanks to the active ingredients breaking down over time which might be seen in changes to the colour or consistency. While they aren’t harmful they won’t give you complete protection against UV radiation which can lead to an increased chance of sunburn, sun damage, brown spots and risk of skin cancer development. As a general rule, the lower the SPF rating, the riskier it is to use expired sunscreen. If you buy sunscreen that doesn’t have an expiration date, write the date of purchase on the bottle and throw it away after three years. If you’re applying sun protection generously, a bottle shouldn’t last you that long anyway! To keep your sunscreen in good condition, try to keep it away from direct sunlight and avoid keeping it in hot places like your car. Best Physical Sunscreens In Australia No matter the weather, your skin needs daily SPF protection so choose Sun Skills clean skin-loving sunscreen range that’s made right here under the Australian sun. This is where skincare meets sun care so you can be confidently protected using non-greasy sun protection that’s free from parabens, sulphates and nasties. Developed with nourishing formulas and natural ingredients that are chosen for their hydration and moisturisation, our sheer touch sunscreen dries with a natural finish that balances your skincare ritual, without being left with that white cast. Talk about being more than just a beach day essential! Which Mineral Suncreen Is Best For Your Face? If you’re looking for a mineral facial sunscreen, you can’t go past esmi’s Skin Shield Sunscreen SPF 30 for healthy, youthful skin. The vegan formula is non-greasy and lightweight meaning it’s perfect for all skin types, from acne-prone to sensitive. This sunscreen has additional ingredients, chosen for their anti-ageing benefits: Zinc Oxide for sun protection. Hyaluronic Acid for hydration. Carrot Root Oil for powerful anti-ageing antioxidants. Cucumber for soothing skin. Vitamin C and Green Tea for skin calming antioxidants
We’re Getting Serious About SPF
We were all taught to slip, slop, slap and wrap from a young age but have we really learnt much if Australia continues to have some of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world? It’s a harsh reality but so is how you’re treating your skin if you aren’t protecting yourself against life changing skin cancers by simply applying SPF daily. Why Is Skin Cancer So Common In Australia? Australia has some of the highest levels of UV radiation from the sun all year round thanks to our climate and the proximity to the equator. UV rays can’t actually be seen or felt so with many Australians having fair skin that isn’t suited to harsh conditions, you’re at an increased risk of developing skin cancer if you have: Pale or freckled skin that burns easily and doesn’t tan. Red or fair hair and light coloured eyes. Frequently been exposed to UV radiation, worked outdoors or been exposed to arsenic without protection. Actively tanned or used tanning beds. A weakened immune system. A health condition or use of medication that may make your skin more sensitive to UV radiation. A number of moles or moles with irregular shapes and uneven colour. Had skin cancer previously or have a family history of skin cancer. If you don’t quite understand what skin cancer is, we’ll break it down for you with the help of the Cancer Council. Skin cancer is an uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the skin, it’s a solid type of cancer which means the abnormal cells form a mass or lump otherwise known as a tumour. Those tumours can invade nearby tissue, destroy normal cells and break away to travel through your bloodstream or lymph vessels. The three main types of skin cancer are: Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) Melanoma, which is the most common cancer affecting Australians aged 20 to 39. Why Sunscreen Is Important To Sun Skills Your skin is the largest organ of your body, acting as a barrier to protect your body from injury, control temperature and prevent loss of body fluids. What’s even more incredible is that there’s clear evidence that regular use of sunscreen helps to prevent skin cancer! If you need a wake up call on using this miracle cream for protection against premature aging and cancer, here are a few statistics from the Cancer Council and Melanoma Institute Australia: Over 95% of skin cancer is caused by exposure to UV radiation. Two in three Australians will be diagnosed with some form of skin cancer before the age of 70 with rates increasing by 6% a year over the past three decades. Non-melanoma skin cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in Australia with over one million treatments given each year. About 1,300 Australians die from melanoma each year. 1 Australian is diagnosed with melanoma every 30 minutes. Skin cancer currently costs the Australian health system more than $1.7 billion a year with Queensland being the skin cancer capital of the world. This is where Sun Skills comes in, changing the narrative so it becomes the norm to wear a bucket hat and put sunscreen on every day. Your skin can’t protect itself from the sun which means the more you’re exposed, the greater your risk of skin cancer. This is why sunscreen should just be one part of your sun protection routine as you take preventative action by wearing clothing with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF), sporting a hat that shades your face and protecting your eyes with sunglasses. By investing in education and prevention, we hope Australian’s can prolong their skin's youth and prevent skin cancer with a broad spectrum SPF50+ sunscreen that they use daily and love. How Does The TGA Rate Sunscreen? We’re lucky in Australia that the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) takes our SPF regulations very seriously which means we’re world leaders by sunscreen standards, winning. All Australian sunscreens are approved by the TGA to ensure they meet all the legal requirements, only have approved ingredients and are safe and effective. The TGA has easy two ways of classifying sunscreen: Primary - Any sunscreen product that has the primary function of providing SPF protection. This is registered with the TGA to ensure it has been produced in a good manufacturing practice (GMP) factory so specific rules and practices are followed during the manufacturing process. It also makes sure legislation is met and the product has undergone specific testing. Secondary - This is any product that contains SPF15+ but isn’t primarily used for SPF protection. Think of your favourite foundation or concealer that has SPF but is actually used as makeup. You might be wondering how you can tell the difference between the two? Well that’s easy, you’ll be able to spot a five-digit Aust L number on a primary sunscreen, this is the code assigned to all products registered with the TGA. The best part is that you can then search the ARTG Register to see details like when the SPF was listed and approved claims the sunscreen can make. All Australian products with an SPF rating must undergo extensive testing before being given an SPF rating. Remember, the SPF rating indicates the amount that product is protecting you against UV rays. A great example is our Sun Skills SPF50, which basically means that it’s 50 times more effective at protecting you than if you weren’t wearing any sun protection at all. How Sun Skills Is Breaking SPF Stereotypes We’re big on educating you honestly and openly about how often you should really be wearing sunscreen, how to apply it correctly and where it could fit in your morning routine so that you and your family are safe from harmful rays. The Sun Skills team hopes that everyone learns something new whether that’s to wear sunscreen during winter or even what blue light filters can do to your skin. What worries us is that most people don’t wear any or enough sunscreen because it’s thought to be thick and greasy. This is where rumours started about it causing breakouts, clogging pores and irritating your skin, which might happen if you wear certain sweatproof sunscreens on your face that are actually designed for your body. Sunscreen doesn’t have to be a greasy pore-blocking burden which is why we’re addressing those barriers with a clean skin-loving SPF range. Our sun protection collection has non-greasy formulas that are free from parabens and sulphates, the best part is that they’re made right here under the Australian sun. They’re also formulated with nourishing natural ingredients like Kakadu plum and aloe vera to protect against free radicals, strengthen your skin's barrier and hydrate for glowing skin. Sun damage is actually the number one cause of premature aging and skin cancer so our Sun Skills SPF range is one you’ll actually want to wear everyday whether you have sensitive skin, are applying under makeup or lathering your family up for a beach day. It might seem like overkill but we love drama so we’re not kidding when we say that sunscreen is the most important product you’ll use so you can never be too careful. If you’ve just ordered one of our skin-loving sunscreens, we encourage you to get to know and love the skin you’re in by getting your skin checked by a GP or dermatologist. Doing this regularly will help you notice any new or changing spots that could potentially save your life, be proactive and make an appointment today.
SPF Care For Oily & Acne-Prone Skin
Sunscreen plays an important role in protecting your skin but for oily or acne-prone skin it can mean changes to an already sensitive skincare routine. That’s why we’re here to bust the myths on sunscreen causing acne and which SPF is best for slick skin. With a few simple steps, you can balance skin-loving sunscreen without pore buildup and acne breakouts. Why Does My Skin Get So Oily? Acne is completely natural and almost everyone experiences it so don’t let it get you down! Acne can develop at any age and regularly appears on the face, neck, back, shoulders and chest. It’s more common during teenage years but we can also thank lifestyle choices and hormonal changes. Your pores connect the surface of your skin to the sebaceous gland which produces an oily substance called sebum, released continually into your hair follicles and skin. If the gland produces too much sebum, the pore can become clogged with dead skin cells, oil and bacteria. This can lead to infection and inflammation around the clogged pore which is where a pimple forms. Does Oily Skin Need Sunscreen? Let’s back the bus up here, no matter what your skin type is you should be wearing SPF every day! That’s right, all year round even if you only spend a few minutes outside. Don’t skip this crucial step in your skincare routine because you’re scared of a breakout, it’s about finding the right product with ingredients that suit your skin type. So, what happens to acne-prone skin if you don’t apply skin-loving SPF? If you struggle with breakouts you’re likely to have photosensitive ingredients in your skincare routine, whether that’s retinol or BHA exfoliants. While these are helpful in managing your breakouts, they increase the sensitivity of your skin to UV light so avoiding sunscreen can actually worsen the appearance of acne, ouch! Pigment protects the deeper layers of the skin from sun damage by producing melanin, which also makes your skin look darker or tanned. While you might think this sounds great, it also means those acne scars you’ve been trying to get rid of will only get worse. This is thanks to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) from acne or acne scars getting darker from sun exposure! If your skin gets burnt then symptoms can be further irritated by adding another layer of inflammation to the skin, causing uneven pigmentation and giving your skin a reddish appearance as small blood vessels stretch. Nourishing sun protection will protect your skin from exposure to free radicals while preventing dark spots, sun damage and premature signs of aging so pass us that sunscreen bottle! Can The Sun Help Clear Acne? Many people believe that the sun can help clear up acne as getting a tan seems to temporarily hide blemishes, we know you’ve heard the myth. Yes, any redness might seem to clear but exposure to the sun can actually make acne marks look more noticeable. Your skin dries out thanks to UV rays so it temporarily produces less sebum as a way to compensate for the damage but inflammation still exists under the surface. The drying effect from the sun is different from the drying that you get from topical acne medications. Acne-prone skin struck by sun exposure then leads to: Flakey skin from sunburn which builds up more dead skin cells that clog pores. Unwanted skin inflammation. Dark spots and scarring after pimples heal. Sweating during sunbathing gives bacteria a place to thrive and causes more breakouts. Does Sunscreen Cause Acne? Sunscreen doesn’t cause acne but certain SPF products and ingredients can irritate the skin or worsen acne. We get it, who wants to put something that’s stereotypically greasy on their skin? Don’t be discouraged by low-quality, heavy sunscreens that you’ve used in the past! You simply have to look for the right formula and keep a few sunscreen application tips in mind. All sunscreen might seem the same but make sure the SPF you’re applying is actually a face sunscreen and not a body sunscreen! When it’s hot and humid, it’s easy for oil to build up throughout the day which is why certain thick or sweat-proof sunscreens can trap the dirt, oil and sebum on the skin’s surface. Before applying SPF, make sure your skin and hands are clean to avoid transferring bacteria to the skin’s microbiome. For a clearer and smoother complexion, esmi’s lightweight Detoxifying Exfoliating Charcoal Serum detoxifies the skin by drawing out underlying congestion and buffing away dead skin cells. Formulated with glycolic acid, it also loosens and breaks apart the bonds of skin cells to encourage softer skin. It’s important to cleanse twice at the end of the day to remove SPF and makeup, prevent acne buildup and allow the skin to breathe. Don’t forget that acne can also be related to sensitivity to other skincare products, your diet or gut imbalances, hormones and stress. If you notice your sunscreen is causing breakouts, it’s a good idea to stop using that specific product and look for something new. Sunscreen Ingredients That Cause Acne Your skin absorbs chemical sunscreens as it penetrates the skin and those chemical ingredients make their way into your body. Chemical filters in sunscreens such as oxybenzone and sodium lauryl sulphates don’t necessarily cause acne but tend to be more irritating. It’s best to check the ingredients list and avoid anything that clogs pores or triggers breakouts, like: Mineral oils that don’t let sweat escape through your pores which leaves sweat and dirt trapped inside. Alcohol which increases skin sensitivity. Plant oils or fatty acids like cocoa butter and coconut oil which are too rich for acne-prone skin to handle. Avoiding these ingredients basically means you’re choosing a sunscreen that’s non-comedogenic which leads us to sunscreen ingredients that are best for oily skin. Should You Apply Sunscreen Or Moisturiser First? The order of your skincare routine needs to be properly considered for your favourite products to work effectively. It’s helpful to also know which ingredients require access to permeate the deeper layers of skin to help build a protective barrier on the outer layer. When moisturiser is placed over sunscreen, it can interfere with how the sunscreen interacts with the sun so it’s best to apply it as your last step before makeup. SPF products are specifically formulated with certain protective ingredients so layering on after your moisturiser will block out any harsh rays. Do I Need To Apply Sunscreen If I Wear Makeup? Makeup with added sun protection should be thought of as a bonus as most makeup products don’t contain high enough levels of SPF to provide sufficient protection. Makeup comes off easily and isn’t always applied evenly, we also bet you aren’t rubbing foundation into your hairline, jawline and neck! It’s important to remember that SPF isn’t additive, meaning that if you layer SPF 25 foundation over an SPF 30 sunscreen, you won’t get SPF 55 coverage. What Is The Best Sunscreen For Oily & Acne-Prone Skin? Wearing sunscreen doesn’t have to be a greasy pore-blocking burden so make sun protection part of your everyday routine with Sun Skills' clean skin-loving sunscreen range that’s made right here under the Australian sun. With clean non-greasy formulas that are free from parabens and sulphates, you can be confidently protected without worrying about chemical-induced breakouts, clogged pores or irritated skin. Your skin will thank you for preventing premature aging whether you’re layering under makeup, wearing alone for daily protection or just need to keep sensitive skin smiling.
How Often Are You Really Wearing SPF?
Are you one of those people that think you only need to wear sunscreen on scorching hot days or if you’re going to be outside all day? In reality, sun protection needs to be at the front of your mind every day and should be applied daily, even if it’s overcast or you’re spending most of the day inside. So ask yourself how often you’re really wearing SPF and where it could fit in your morning skincare routine for the ultimate protection against skin cancer and wrinkles. Why You Need To Wear Sunscreen Everyday Sunscreen works by preventing UV rays from penetrating and damaging your skin which means you should be using SPF everyday whether you’re a man, woman or child and no matter what your skin tone is. Sunscreen Prevents Cancer You might not know it but your skin is constantly creating abnormal cells that can potentially evolve into cancer. It sounds scary but your immune system usually finds them early and knocks them out of the park, phew! If you’re constantly risking excess sun exposure, this will reduce your skin’s immune response which can give those early abnormal cells a chance to continue to grow. UVB rays are the ones known to cause burning and put you at risk of melanoma, it can develop anywhere on your body but is most common on your back, legs, arms and face. Don’t forget about the spots that don’t receive much sun exposure as melanomas can also show up on the soles of your feet, palms of your hands and fingernail beds. These hidden melanomas are often seen in people with darker skin which is why we’re here, to tell you that you should definitely wear sunscreen every day no matter your skin type. Regular daily use of SPF15+ can reduce your risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) by 40% and lower your risk of melanoma by 50%, so sunscreen really is essential to your long term health and wellbeing. Sunscreen Prevents Ageing Ageing is one of the most natural things in the world but as you get older you may start to notice that your skin will change depending on whether you live in a city, what your diet is like, how well you sleep, your genetics and if you spent a lot of time in the sun. You might not have many ageing factors under your control but there’s a reason SPF is the number one anti-ageing product. UVA radiation causes cellular damage that depletes collagen and damages underlying connective tissue which leads to skin laxity, fine lines and wrinkles. You might also notice dilated blood vessels that give your skin a red tone and brown pigment in your skin that is more pronounced, making your skin tone look uneven and blotchy. How Much Sunscreen Do I Need? To get the correct level of SPF you need to apply the right amount of sunscreen so here’s a few rules we like to stick by: Use one shot glass for your entire body in one application, this equals 35mL or 7 teaspoons. Use at least one teaspoon per limb, one for the front of the torso, one for the back and one for your head. Follow the ‘two-finger’ rule for your face and neck by measuring sunscreen along the length of your pointer and middle fingers. Your favourite SPF should be applied every day and at least 30 minutes before going outside because it takes time for your skin to absorb the protective ingredients. We can see you rolling your eyes but this really is one of the most important skincare products you’ll apply so it’s worth the wait. Make sure you’re not missing those forgotten-about places like the tops of your ears, the back of your neck, your scalp line, lips, eyelids, the tops of your feet and behind your knees. There’s really no harm in applying extra sunscreen so if you're unsure just apply some more! Should Sunscreen Come Before Or After Other Products? As you’re learning about skincare from Sun Skills and the esmi edit, your skincare routine is likely becoming a little more multi-layered. To make sure the correct ingredients soak into the deeper layers of skin and build a protective barrier on your epidermis, your routine should be ordered to allow your products to work effectively. If you’re using a sunscreen, like Sun Skills For All, the active ingredients need to be fully absorbed into your skin to be able to provide UV protection. Let the product sit and absorb before moving on to the next, it’s the perfect amount of time to make your bed or brush your teeth! When it comes to chemical sunscreens, avoid applying anything that will create a barrier between your skin and your favourite Sun Skills SPF which is why we recommend ordering your products from lightest to heaviest, just like this: Cleanser. Toner. Serums. Sunscreen. Moisturiser. Makeup. We know it might seem like an easy DIY Tik Tok hack but you shouldn’t mix any of your products together. Not only could there be properties that could cause ingredients to become inactivated but it also dilutes the efficacy of the sunscreen. Is Wearing Sunscreen Every Day Bad For You? You might have heard some nasty rumours that sunscreen contains ingredients that are bad for your health or that using sunscreen regularly would mean you’re not getting enough Vitamin D. According to the Cancer Council, Australian sunscreens are strictly regulated by the Therapeutics Goods Administration (TGA) to ensure that the ingredients they contain are safe and effective. This means you can be confident that the sunscreen you use on a daily basis doesn’t have any ingredients that are bad for your health. The biggest concern you should have is whether you’re actually applying enough sunscreen correctly and aren’t getting sunburnt. Should You Wear Sunscreen Every Day In Winter? You should absolutely be wearing sunscreen every day, yes even in winter! There’s a common belief that you only need to wear sunscreen on hot summer days but up to 80% of the sun’s UV radiation reaches earth, even passing through clouds on its way down. This means going unprotected on an overcast day and battling reflecting UV rays from water, snow and sand can lead to double exposure and skin damage. While UVB rays tend to be weaker during winter, if you’re into winter sports like snowboarding or skiing, UV radiation can actually increase by 5% with every thousand feet you rise above sea level. The UV index isn’t measured by temperature so if you spend a lot of time outdoors, especially when the sun is strongest, you need an SPF30+ water-resistant sunscreen that you reapply every 2 hours. Should You Wear Sunscreen Every Day, Even At Home? You might think applying sunscreen in the morning is no big deal if you’re just going to be inside all day but don’t forget about the incidental sun exposure with your coffee runs or meeting the postman for your latest esmi and Sun Skills orders. Sun protection is one of the most important things you can do for your skin so if your desk is next to a window, you spend a lot of time driving or you just want to create better SPF habits then a clean broad spectrum SPF should be part of your morning ritual. Sunscreen can also protect your skin against blue light which produces free radicals that are responsible for sagging, age spots and premature aging. If you want to read more about how sunscreen protects from blue light, it’s time to brush up on your Sun Skills for your beauty and health. What Sunscreen Is Best For Everyday Use? For all-around skin defense, the best sunscreen is the one you’re most likely to use daily! If you’re after mineral protection that blocks and scatters rays before they reach your skin, you can’t go past esmi’s Skin Shield Sunscreen SPF30. Formulated with hyaluronic acid for hydration and rosehip extract to improve fine lines and reverse sun damage, it blends effortlessly to provide maximum coverage without a chalky residue. If you prefer a family-friendly chemical sunscreen that absorbs UV rays before they can damage your skin, look no further than the lightweight and fast-absorbing Sun Skills For All. Formulated with skin-loving ingredients for the whole family from native Kakadu plum to protect against free radicals to aloe vera for hydration and moisturisation. It’ll leave your skin feeling soft and smooth, drying without a white cast for a natural finish that makes it perfect for daily use. When choosing the best everyday sunscreen for you, it’s important to take your own personal preferences and skin type into consideration. Don’t forget to practice your Sun Skills by staying in the shade, wearing a wide brimmed hat and sun-protective clothing, protecting your eyes with sunglasses and keeping track of the UV index.
5 Myths About SPF That Need To Burn
You know you should be slathering on SPF but maybe these common myths have got you second guessing how and why you should apply. Sunscreen is a must to reduce your odds of potentially deadly cancer as well as sun damage that leads to signs of aging so be skin-savvy and don’t buy into these myths that can leave you exposed. Myth One: You Only Need Sunscreen In Summer We’ve got a newsflash for you, sun damage is actually caused by UV radiation, not temperature! On cloudy days the sun might not feel as strong but UVA rays are the same strength year round. No matter how much of your skin is exposed and even if it's an overcast day, up to 90% of the sun’s rays can still penetrate your skin and may even be more intense due to reflection off the bottom of the clouds. If you head to the snow in winter, you might also think you can skip the SPF but you’re actually getting hit by UV rays twice, once from sun and then again when the sun’s rays bounce off the snow. Sun protection is non-negotiable 365 days a year, especially when Australia has some of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. Most of the sun exposure people get is unintentional so the solution is simple, make sunscreen a daily part of your morning routine and continue to apply it the same way you would if it was a warm sunny day. Myth Two: You Won’t Absorb Vitamin D If You’re Wearing SPF Your body makes Vitamin D through exposure to UV rays, which we like to think of it as the sunshine vitamin. It works when UVB rays interact with a protein in our skin and convert it to Vitamin D3, the active form of Vitamin D. It helps regulate the amount of calcium and phosphate in your body which is the nutrients needed to keep your bones, teeth and muscles healthy. You might be wondering how we’re able to get Vitamin D if sunscreen blocks UVB rays? Well you’ll actually get enough Vitamin D within just a few minutes of sun exposure. Even if you apply sunscreen well it still allows 2-3% of the sun’s UVB to reach your skin. If you’re worried about getting enough Vitamin D, don’t skip sunscreen as the risks of skin cancer vastly outweigh the benefits of getting Vitamin D from the sun. Let’s not forget you can also get Vitamin D by consuming salmon, eggs, soy milk and oat milk. Sounds like breakfast is on us this weekend! Myth Three: SPF Makeup Is Enough To Protect The Face It would take a lot of makeup to protect your skin with the level of SPF stated on the bottle and frankly, most of us just aren’t wearing that much. Yes, while some sun protection might be present, any SPF ingredients are essentially diluted when mixed with other cosmetic ingredients. When sunscreen is tested for protection, it’s usually applied in a much thicker layer than makeup is plus you probably don’t use it on all the areas that are exposed to the sun like the back of your neck or ears. Just because a product has sunscreen ingredients doesn’t automatically qualify it as a sunscreen, it should be seen as an additional layer and not the only layer. While it’s better to use sunscreen in makeup than not to use any sunscreen at all, it’s not a good replacement. Let’s look at a cosmetic with SPF30, it would only be effective for up to two hours! Use a separate sunscreen before applying any makeup then use an SPF powder or setting spray to reapply your sun protection throughout the day. Myth Four: Fake Tan Protects Your Skin From The Sun Fake tans are designed to darken your skin without ultraviolet light, I mean who doesn’t love the fresh tan feeling! The active ingredient in most sunless tans is a sugar called dihydroxyacetone, or DHA for short. During a reaction with the protein keratin on the surface of the skin, this produces pigments which gives your skin a temporary tan that fades as your dead skin cells shed. People often think that a real tan can protect you from the sun so a fake tan does the same thing but it actually offers a false sense of protection. We often associate a tan with health and vitality but a tan is actually the skin’s visible response to sun damage. Getting a tan from UV rays actually causes permanent DNA damage to the skin as the immune system sends repair enzymes to the site of sun damage and tries to repair it by putting up a wall of darker pigment to prevent further sunburn. This means that a fake tan doesn’t improve your body’s ability to protect itself from the sun so you will still need sun protection. Myth Five: If Sunscreen Is Waterproof, You Don’t Need To Reapply After Swimming No sunscreen is completely waterproof but added ingredients grip the skin so your sunscreen can be water resistant, note the difference? These ingredients allow the sunscreen to be water-insoluble so it won’t run into the water while you’re at a pool party. A common ingredient is cetyl octanoate, also added to your shampoo, which forms a film over the skin that repels water. You might not realise it but the intensity of harmful ultraviolet rays is actually higher under water than it is above! This is why it’s important to let your sunscreen settle on your skin for at least 15 minutes before going into the water, if you can’t wait that long once you’ve got to the beach then apply it before you leave home. Water resistant sunscreen generally lasts up to 80 minutes after water exposure so you’ll need to reapply every two hours if you’re swimming, sweating or towel drying as this lessens the layer of UV protection. Sunscreen is one of the most important products you can use so understanding the way it works and how to use it correctly can help you avoid these common SPF mistakes.
Your Sunburn Survival Guide
By now you know that UVB rays are for burning so you’re at risk of seeing red if a lot of your daily activities are in the sunshine, whether you work outside or love afternoon walks along the beach. If you’ve stayed out in the sun too long and just the thought of touching your raw skin is painful, check out our survival guide for what you can do to ease the burn and lessen the damage that’s occurring deep within your skin. How Does Sunburn Happen? Sunburn is an inflammatory reaction to ultraviolet radiation which causes damage to the skin’s outermost layers. That’s right, it’s not actually the sun's heat that burns your skin so you can still get sunburned when the weather is cold! Your skin works defensively by kicking your immune system into gear and sending extra blood to the damaged skin, this helps heal the cells but also leaves you with that bright red glow. It can happen in as little as 11 minutes but you won’t often see it for hours after you’ve been out in the sun. If you have lighter features, severe sunburn can happen more easily but it also depends on the intensity of UV rays, certain medications and retinoids, your skin type and pigmentation. You’re also at higher risk if you tan regularly, work outdoors, play sports or swim outside or live close to the equator. What Does Sunburn Look & Feel Like? Moderate sunburn is like a first degree burn which causes damage to your skin’s outer layer, luckily this usually heals on its own in a few days. Unfortunately you may experience redness, blistering and peeling skin after 3-8 days while your skin may also feel hot and tight. If you’ve really turned up the heat then a second degree burn will cause damage to the inner layer of your skin, known as the dermis, which may take weeks to heal. You may notice fluid-filled blisters, extremely red skin, white discolouration within the burn and swelling over large areas. You might also experience some symptoms of heat stroke which includes exhaustion, fever, dizziness and muscle cramps. As part of the natural healing process, your skin may also start to peel as your body tries to get rid of damaged cells. Resist the temptation to pick at your skin and allow it to detach on its own as it tries to regenerate. These areas will be particularly sensitive to the sun for several weeks so make sure you cover the new skin thoroughly with your favourite Sun Skills SPF before exposing it again. Sunburn VS Windburn Okay let’s get something straight here, the wind can dry your skin but it won’t burn it like the sun. You may notice some of the symptoms like redness, burning and peeling are the same but a combination of low humidity and wind actually strips your skin of its protective oils. This leaves your hands, face, lips and ears vulnerable to inflammation, extreme dryness and irritation. If you have skin conditions like rosacea or eczema, or have recently had dermabrasions or chemical peels, this can also make your skin extra sensitive to the wind. Windburn during summer is really uncommon so it usually happens during cold, dry and (you guessed it) windy weather when you’re doing outdoor activities like skiing or hiking. June and July tend to be the coldest months so cover up as much as possible from the elements and use a thicker alcohol-free moisturiser like esmi’s Nourishing Moisturiser. This moisture-boosting cream is perfect for those with true dry skin, formulated 24K gold flakes to help boost circulation and cocoa seed butter to protect and deeply hydrate your skin. How Serious Is Sunburn? While your temporary burn will heal, the damage is done as it builds over time, starting with your first sunburn. The more you burn the greater your risk of developing skin cancer which is scary when you think that five or more sunburns double your risk of melanoma. Can you remember how many times you have been sunburnt? Before melanin can take effect, your body’s short term response to DNA cell change is to intentionally kill off the cells that have been damaged, a process called apoptosis. This reduces the chance that mutated cells will begin uncontrollably reproducing which forms a tumor. This means it’s not actually the burn itself that affects your risk, it’s the amount of sun exposure which can lead to the deadliest forms of skin cancer. Even if you have a tan or dark skin type, frequent unprotected sun exposure can cause cellular damage that can increase your risk of: Eye damage as UV rays can wreak havoc on the tissues in your eyes and burn the cornea, or outer layer, which over time can lead to cataracts. Precancerous skin lesions. Lowered immune system as white blood cells work to protect your body when it gets burnt. Premature skin aging including age spots, freckles, red veins and wrinkles. Skin cancer with the most common being melanoma. Skin changes where some cells form a clump of melanin that creates freckles and moles. Does Sunburn Turn Into Tan? Melanin is a pigment that gives your skin its colour by darkening exposed skin to protect it from further damage. The amount of melanin you produce is determined by genetics, which is why some people seem to get burned and others tan. This is all thanks to the same UVB rays that burn which also bronze! While it might seem that your burn is giving you a tan because it coincides with your healing, it’s actually delayed pigment darkening that usually begins two days after the exposure and lasts 10-14 days. Having a natural tan is actually a sign of irreparable cellular damage to the skin so you should never actively try to get that “first burn” of the season. A tan is about the same as SPF2 so the only way to that golden glow safely is to use fake tan. How Do You Heal Sunburn Fast? The majority of sunburns can be treated at home so learn from your burn and make this one your last! Take a cool shower and skip any harsh soaps which might irritate your skin even more. Pat yourself dry then take the heat out of your exposed skin with Sun Skills Aftersun Gel! It’s packed with hydrating ingredients and restorative properties that soothe your skin when it needs it most. The lightweight and fast-absorbing gel is enriched with hyaluronic acid to replenish skin's water content and instantly boosts hydration so you’ll be feeling as cool as a cucumber. Keep yourself refreshed by sipping a chilled green juice and relaxing under the fan as burns draw fluid to the skin’s surface and away from the rest of the body so you may become dehydrated. You’ll want to avoid scratching, scrubbing, picking or pealing your red skin or any newly formed blisters. They’re actually filled with plasma to protect the underlying damaged skin while your skin heals, popping the blisters will mean the skin dries out and can get infected. How Do You Prevent Sunburn? The bad news is that there is no way to reverse sun damage but the good news is it’s entirely preventable. You can’t feel UV radiation so be sun safe by protecting yourself with Sun Skills for ALL SPF 50+ face and body sunscreen. It’s designed to protect you and your family from harmful UV damage while supporting and strengthening all skin types, especially normal to oily. The sheer touch formula includes skin-loving ingredients for the whole family with enriching vitamin E and native Kakadu plum to protect against free radicals while high aloe vera content hydrates and moisturises.
Summer Survival Guide For Sensitive Skin
We know we aren’t the only ones who love summer and look forward to it most of the year. Your hair turns lighter, the water is warmer, the nights get longer and everything just feels more carefree! If you’ve got sensitive skin, days spent swimming and laying out in the sun can be triggers that leave you being picky with what products you use on your face and body. Here’s our survival guide for those who need to keep sensitive smiling, so you can get back to summer lovin’. What Are The Signs Of Sensitive Skin? Sensitive skin can mean different things to different people but it typically points to having a thin or weakened epidermis so the skin’s protective barrier isn’t as strong as it could be. This makes it easier for irritants and bacteria to penetrate the skin causing inflammation, redness and dryness. In other skin types, a functional lipid barrier is able to hold water while keeping environmental toxins like UV rays, heat and harsh chemicals out. Your sensitive skin might look fragile with broken capillaries while feeling itchy with a dry and patchy texture that’s easily irritated. With added sun exposure and warmer temperatures, delicate complexions may burn quickly and feature high colour which means flare-ups like rosacea, dermatitis, psoriasis, and eczema are quite common. Can You Be Allergic To Sunscreen? You might be stressed about irritated skin, dry patches, burns and redness but don’t let summer be a source of anxiety. Reactions to sunscreen are rare but can be a result of sensitivity or an allergy to particular ingredients. This can lead to contact dermatitis as a rash forms where the product was applied, you’re also more susceptible to this if you have eczema. Photocontact dermatitis is another type of reaction where an active sunscreen ingredient and UV light can mingle to cause an allergic reaction. This may show up as severe sunburn, eczema or a rash where the sunscreen was applied and the skin has been exposed to the sun. It’s worth keeping in mind that if you have highly sensitive skin, like rosacea, sunscreen may cause irritation rather than a full allergy. Reactions can also be linked to other factors such as saltwater or drying chlorine. Sand can be especially irritating for sensitive skin as grains can cause friction which may tear the skin so avoid applying sunscreen to sandy skin and rinse off after a day at the beach. If you’re using medication for your sensitive skin, always check with your health professional about the possibility of increased sensitivity as some creams can make your skin burn more quickly. Can The Sun Cause Allergies? A sun allergy is often caused by your immune system treating sun-altered skin as foreign cells. You may see an itchy rash form on your skin which can be followed by stinging, tiny red bumps that turn into raised patches, flushing or hives after being exposed to sunlight. These symptoms can range from mild to severe depending on the amount of skin you’ve exposed, the amount of time you spent in the sun and the intensity of light. What Helps Sensitive Skin In Summer? Sunscreen is a must for everyone but especially those with sensitive skin as it protects against both harmful UVA and UVB rays. It’s important to practice good skincare habits throughout the year to prevent premature aging and skin cancer, especially on your neck and decolletage as this area is often more sensitive than other parts of the body. Don’t forget that the more you’re exposed to UV rays, the more frequently you need to apply so why not set an alarm on your phone to remind you every couple of hours? While you’re at it, complement your sun protection ritual with our terry towel bucket hat! By taking your protection one step further and finding a brimmed hat you love and will want to wear often, you’re protecting your whole face and reducing the amount of UV radiation reaching your eyes by 50%. We recommend choosing a bucket hat over a baseball cap or sun visor as these don’t protect your cheeks, ears or the back of your neck. Our everyday accessory comes in light sage green with a soft jacquard chequered print so you’re sun safe and stylish. You should also be mindful of exposing your body to as little direct sunlight as possible which might mean sitting underneath an umbrella and avoiding the midday sun. The sun has a way of drying out your skin so keep it healthy by staying hydrated. Summer sweat and humidity will make your skin feel moisturised but the effect isn’t the same as drinking water which also helps improve blood flow, promote nutrient absorption and eliminate toxins from the inside. To give your skin a boost from the outside, use esmi’s Refreshing And Hydrating Skin Snack Face Mist to replenish and refresh your skin. This vegan face mist is perfect for when your skin is exposed to air conditioning, UV light, wind and weather. It’s formulated with apple fruit extract to protect your skin from free radicals and help it maintain youthful elasticity while green tea extract calms redness and raspberry extract protects cells from excessive water loss. We’ll drink to that! Is Sunscreen Bad For Sensitive Skin? If you have sensitive skin, sun protection should be one of your top skin care priorities year round. Less is often more when it comes to sensitive skin so as a general rule, the fewer ingredients the more suitable a product may be. It’s best to avoid sun protection products with ingredients that are known to irritate your skin, this means there might be some trial and error involved before finding the perfect sun protection product. To maintain a glowing complexion you’ll want to skip anything with synthetic acids, fragrances and colourants, fillers and preservatives. If you’re cautious when it comes to trying new skin products, apply a small amount of SPF on your arm and check if there’s any reaction after 48 hours. Be thoughtful when it comes to your skin and avoid trying multiple new products at once, that way you’ll know exactly what the culprit is if you do notice sensitivity or a breakout. How To Protect Sensitive Skin From The Sun Keeping your skin safe doesn’t have to mean skipping beach days, our gentle Sun Skills for SENSITIVE is a fragrance-free formula designed for daily use. Developed with delicate skin in mind, it will help strengthen your skin's barrier and prevent premature ageing without clogging pores or irritating skin. Future-proof your sensitive skin with natural aloe vera and vitamin E by applying half a teaspoon for your face and decolletage and a full teaspoon per limb. No one is perfect so if you missed a spot or stayed out in the sun longer than expected, take the heat out of your exposed skin with our Aftersun Gel. Packed with hydrating ingredients and restorative properties, you’ll feel as cool as a cucumber with aloe vera soothing sunburn, itchy or inflamed skin. Image by Angelica Echeverry
Why You Need To Wear Sunscreen Inside
Think you’re not going to be exposed to UV rays while you’re inside on the couch? Think again! No matter the weather, season or temperature, those aging and burning rays can get you even while you’re driving! We’ve answered your burning questions on everything you need to know about wearing sunscreen indoors, how bluelight can impact your skin and what your WFH skincare routine should look like. Do I Need To Wear Sunscreen Indoors? Let’s get back to basics, the purpose of sunscreen is to cut down how much UV reaches your skin to reduce the risk of sunburn and skin cancer. While it’s a no-brainer to apply SPF if you’re spending a day outside in the sun, many people still struggle with the reality that it’s a must when you’re indoors. You might think it’s more practical to save the SPF for brighter days spent outside but it’s worth getting into the habit of adding sunscreen to your morning routine. You’ll likely go outside at some point or inadvertently be exposed during the day whether you’re taking a stroll to get your morning coffee or simply hanging the washing out. Sun damage can occur through your windows, otherwise known as ambient solar UV radiation, and while the risk is low those harmful UVA rays can still get through. Remember how we said UVA rays stand for premature aging and pigmentation while UVB rays stand for burning? You won’t believe it but the majority of UV hand aging actually occurs while you’re driving! So the short answer is yes, you do need to wear sunscreen indoors. What Level Of SPF Do I Need? The sun protection factor, or SPF for short, measures the level of UVB protection a sunscreen will give you. What’s the go with broad spectrum we hear you asking? Well this protects against both UVA and UVB rays, now that’s hitting the jackpot! If you’re inside most of the day you can use a sunscreen with SPF15 or higher, however if you’re spending a lot of time outside, especially when the sun is strongest, you’ll need SPF30 or more. How Often Do I Need To Reapply Sunscreen If I’m Indoors? Sunscreens need to form a film over your skin in order to do their job properly however your sebum levels and sweat will often naturally break down the formula. If you’re indoors you’re less likely to be sweating or swimming so if you’re not near windows, you’ll likely be okay with one application in the morning. If you’re sitting in a room that receives lots of sunlight or are using technology for most of the day, keep your skin youthful and radiant by applying your favourite sunscreen every 4-6 hours. Do You Need To Wear Sunscreen Every Day? We can’t say it enough but sun protection is one of the most important things you can do for your skin! The effects of UV exposure and sun damage are cumulative so the extent of damage isn’t immediately apparent and often isn’t reversible. UVA radiation weakens the skin’s immune system so applying sunscreen minimises your risk of skin cancer and melanoma by up to 50%. Daily use of SPF can also prevent wrinkles and premature aging which is simply a symptom of collagen and tissue breaking down. Taking care of your skin starts with sunscreen and in reality, most people don’t wear as much as they should. You could be spending hundreds on the best skin care products but they simply won’t live up to the anti-aging prevention that sunscreen provides, there’s a reason we love SPF! Take your skin type into consideration and choose a lightweight everyday sunscreen that works with your daily routine. Should I Use Sunscreen When I’m WFH? If you gave yourself a window view while setting up your home office, you’ll likely be more exposed to direct sunlight than when you were in the office. If you’ve since dropped sunscreen from your morning routine, you might want to think about adding it back. It may seem counterintuitive but the more you’re exposed, the more you’re at risk, especially as the sun’s rays can pass through windows and most household ones don’t have any UV protection built in. We know it can be easy to think you’re not planning on leaving the house so it won’t matter but if you’re moving your laptop to work from the balcony or backyard, you could actually be upping your exposure. Why not be mindful of how often you step outside and keep a spare bottle of SPF at your desk to apply regularly? If you don’t want to wear sunscreen inside then move out of the sun by drawing the curtains or changing rooms. Getting ready for the office requires a few less steps when you’re working from home so why not make it even easier by switching to a tinted sunscreen which can double as SPF protection and light coverage for those dreaded video meetings. For a bright and glowing complexion smooth on an antioxidant serum, like esmi’s Pomegranate Brightening Serum, before sunscreen. The high Vitamin C content helps strengthen cells from UV damage, when used alongside your SPF, and has anti-oxidation properties to protect from free radicals and environmental aggressors. Does Sunscreen Protect From Blue Light? Blue light is a colour in the visible light spectrum that can actually be seen by the human eye. It primarily comes from the sun but is also emitted by fluorescent bulbs and your phone, laptop and TV screens. It gives off a lot less High Energy Visible Light (HEV) than the sun but our exposure times are huge when we compare it to how much sunbathing we do in a week to how much screen time we accumulate. It has a short wavelength which means it’s able to reach past the dermis but can’t cause sunburn, phew! Unfortunately blue light does produce free radicals which can cause sagging from a decrease in collagen and elastic tissue, age spots from increased melanin and premature aging while also impacting your beauty sleep and eye health. You’ve probably got glasses to protect your eyes from blue light, but what about your skin? Not all sunscreens protect against blue light but physical formulas with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide do as these minerals sit on top of the skin and bounce light off to protect it. Try keeping your devices further away from your face, enable night mode and decrease the brightness to help lower the amount of damage caused.
What Is UV Radiation & Why You Should Care
UV radiation is a type of natural energy produced by the sun and isn’t the same as heat, which is infrared radiation. Australia has some of the highest levels of UV radiation in the world so to prolong your skin's youth and prevent unwanted fine lines and pigmentation, daily protection is essential. What Are The Three Types Of UV Radiation? H3: What Is UVA?[Text Wrapping Break]UVA rays have the longest wavelengths with up to 95% of their radiation reaching us. Known as passive exposure, it can break through windows and cloud cover with skin trying to protect itself by darkening, resulting in a tan. It’s not quite as glamorous as we think baking in the sun for a bronzed glow is. UVA rays penetrate the skin more deeply, entering as deep as the second layer of skin! This produces free radicals and causes DNA cell damage which can lead to wrinkles, premature aging and pigmentation. What Is UVB? It’s all thanks to UVB rays that we experience sunburn, skin reddening and blistering. These rays penetrate the outermost layers of skin to damage our epidermis all year round so are strongly linked to skin cancer and melanin production. UVB has a medium wavelength and although shorter wavelength radiation is stronger and more damaging, it’s also less effective at penetrating the skin, phew. To simplify things, we like to think of UVA for aging and UVB for burning. What Is UVC? UVC is the most dangerous type of radiation but it’s filtered by the ozone layer so doesn’t reach the earth’s surface and can’t damage our skin, love that for us! What is the UV index? The UV Index (UVI) is an internationally standardised numerical scale developed by the World Health Organisation to measure the amount of UV radiation we’re getting. It starts at zero, like our motivation in the morning, and has no limit so the higher the UVI the greater the damage to our skin. The levels are affected by geographic location, altitude, time of day or year and cloud cover. We have some of the highest levels of UV in the world with most parts of Australia reaching 11 or more on the UVI in summer. This is because we’re close to the equator, where UV levels are highest, and we’re closer to the sun in summer than the northern hemisphere. //Graphic Of UV Index// Most of us are used to adjusting our plans and clothes based on the weather so why not start doing the same when you check the UV Index? How Much UV Is Harmful For Skin? You can’t see or feel UV radiation so it can be difficult to know how strong it is and what effect it will have. When the UV Index is between 0-2, you’re generally safe to go outside without protection however it should be your priority if it’s 3 or higher. People who have skin that’s sensitive to light can’t protect themselves from UV radiation for long so it can start becoming harmful after about 5-10 minutes. If you aren’t up for checking the UV Index every time you leave the house or know you’ll be spending long periods of time outdoors, why not just apply your sunscreen and wear a hat daily? When Is UV Strongest? Sun protection times vary according to your location and change throughout the year although, on a clear day, the UV level will be the same three hours before midday and 3 hours after midday. You’ll face direct exposure when the sun is literally shining on you but indirect exposure can happen when the UV rays are reflected off different surfaces and scattered by particles in the air, how’s that for being a little extra? Just because the weather isn’t warm doesn’t mean the sun stops shining, even on rainy or overcast days, UV levels can top out around midday. Download the Sun Smart app to check when UV is peaking and get alerts when to reapply. What Does UV Skin Damage Look Like? We hate to say it but your skin retains most of the UV damage you receive, it might not look visibly burnt but UV damage is cumulative so your skin remembers all the UV exposure you’ve had over the years. Your body can repair some of the damage in your skin cells but it can’t repair it all, over time this can lead to malignant tumours. Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world with sun exposure causing around 99% of non-melanoma skin cancers and 95% of melanomas. The more you’re exposed, the greater your risk which is why it’s so important for outdoor workers to protect their skin all year round. Sunburn is an immediate effect of the sun’s damage and can be treated at home with our cooling After Sun Gel, packed with hydrating ingredients and restorative properties that soothe your skin when it needs it most. The degree of damage depends on the intensity of UV rays and the length of time your skin has been exposed without protection. Although sunburn may fade within a few days, the damage can’t be undone and adds to your lifetime tally of UV damage. Sun damage is the number one cause of premature aging with it causing up to 80% of fine lines and wrinkles. It brings about photoaging which is where the skin’s support structure, made of collagen and elastin fibres, is broken down. This leads to a slackening effect causing skin sagging and wrinkle formation. As collagen deteriorates, spider veins are another common flaw that appears on the skin’s surface as red, purple or blue lines. This happens because fragile collagen structure leads to decreased pressure around the blood vessels and reduced elasticity of the skin. Pigment protects the deeper layers of the skin from sun damage by producing melanin, which also makes your skin look darker or tanned. This can cause uneven pigmentation and give your skin a reddish appearance as small blood vessels stretch. You might also notice sun spots appearing as large freckles or flat brown spots that typically appear on the arms, legs, face, hands and decolletage. Can UV Benefit The Skin? It’s not all bad, UVB radiation is actually the best source of natural Vitamin D which helps maintain healthy bones and muscles while absorbing calcium, magnesium and phosphate. Balance is important so there’s no need to bake in the sun, have you read the last three paragraphs? You can actually get enough through regular incidental exposure to the sun like hanging out the washing, isn’t that a double banger! Which Ultraviolet Sunscreen Is Best? With good sun protection, skin cancer and premature aging is almost entirely preventable! Ultraviolet sunscreen that combines UVA and UVB protection should be incorporated into your daily morning routine every day. While applying foundations and moisturisers with SPF does provide protection, it’s often a much smaller amount. Wearing sunscreen doesn’t have to be a greasy pore-blocking burden, future proof your skin today with our range of skin-loving sunscreens so you can practice your Sun Skills. Banner image by De Jesus Benitez
