Everything you need to know about sunscreen

All the specialists say it: the use of sunscreen is essential for the health of the skin. It does not matter whether you are inside or outside the house, it is essential to use it daily for its care and for the prevention of pathologies. And also, on an aesthetic level, it is now possible to find new products with advantages that are worth knowing.

Although summer has not yet arrived, rising temperatures are already being felt, which means that our bodies are more exposed and, by extension, more vulnerable to the effect of UV rays; but that’s not the only reason for the daily habit of applying sunscreen.

We often forget the effect of blue light, the one that emanates from the screens to which we are so exposed on a daily basis. Although this type of radiation is not the one that causes cancer, it does cause photoaging because it contributes to the generation of free radicals, causing skin cells to malfunction. This is another of the reasons why sunscreen should be used every day of the year, in addition to the most complex, because without this care the risk of cancer is real.

The actinic damage It is the one that the cells undergo when exposed to the sun and the one that results in the increase of flaccidity, hyperpigmentation, dehydration and hyperkeratosis, among other effects. María Olga Estrada, director of the cosmetic clinic of the same name, adds: “UVA/UVB rays cut collagen and elastin fibers as if they were cut with scissors, resulting in sagging, furrows, imperfections, wrinkles and skin cancer”. Camila Moreno, head of scientific communication at Vichy, adds: “Sunscreen is the best anti-wrinkle and anti-stain product, so – whatever your age – you should always use it.”

The Solar cream it must be him last step of the basic morning skincare routine, i.e. it should be applied after cleansing and moisturizing. In addition, in case of sun exposure, it is important to use it every two hours ; and in case the exposure is not direct, all four. María Olga Estrada points out: “Like skincare habits at the moment, it is important to avoid the sun between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. and to wear hats. Also, do not expose yourself to the sun if you are undergoing treatment with medications or photosensitive products, avoid oils that promote tanning and always protect your lips.

Today, you can find a wide variety of products that provide benefits that go beyond protection; technologies that incorporate powerful assets that are a plus for different purposes. But first you need to understand that each option should be chosen taking into account the type of skin: combination to oily skin favors gel or fluid skin to avoid a greasy feeling and the appearance of impurities, on the other hand dry skin is better suited to smoother milks and creams.

On this subject, Dr. Camila Cabello, dermatologist at the Clínica Ciudad del Mar, explains: “The texture of sunscreens has changed a lot, to which is added that there are now also anti-aging, moisturizing, stain removers. ., fat regulators; today, they are much more specific to each type of skin”. The doctor explains that some of the active ingredients that have been incorporated into sunscreens are, among others, hyaluronic acid, photolyase, Q10 and alpha hydroxy acids such as anti-aging; niacinamide as a depigmenting agent and salicylic acid as a sebum regulator.

And what is the contribution of each of these assets? Hyaluronic acid is a powerful moisturizer, photolyase is an enzyme that repairs damage caused by exposure to ultraviolet rays, coenzyme Q10 is a powerful antioxidant, alpha hydroxy acids gradually exfoliate the skin to remove dead cells and bring more brightness. For its part, niacinamide protects the hydration barrier, promoting elasticity and with the ability to improve acne, while contributing to protection against the sun’s rays. Salicylic acid also helps treat acne by reducing swelling and clogged pores.

Camila Cabello adds that “we can also find anti-aging actives such as specialized collagen peptides to reduce wrinkles and restore firmness to the skin, niacinamide and pigments such as iron oxide, which allows to increase sun protection and give an even complexion to the skin. . skin”.

Dr. María Olga Estrada explains the differences between the two most relevant types of protectors: sunscreens and the latest technology sunscreens.

SPF 30 sun creams: “It’s the minimum acceptable. The formulas contain high concentrations of antioxidants to mitigate oxidative damage caused by free radicals. Its main assets are zinc oxide and octinozate microencapsulated in hyaluronic acid or other moisturizers depending on the brand”.

Sunscreens from SPF 50+: “They are specially formulated for outdoor activities. They are fusions of micro-pulverized chemical active ingredients of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, to which high doses of vitamin E are added, a formula that helps with water resistance. The dermatologist also explains that the screens remain on the skin, like a ‘silver paper’, refracting UVA/UVB”. The professional recommends always looking for the lightest formula.

Prevents and treats the signs of accelerated photoaging (spots/wrinkles) by containing active ingredients such as azelaic acid and glycolic acid. In a light cream texture. Ideal for normal to combination skin, even sensitive.

It incorporates a new technology: TriAsorB, an organic and mineral filter that protects the skin from UV rays and blue light from the sun but also from screens, reducing cell damage induced by solar radiation by 89%. It also contains Avène Thermal Spring Water, which hydrates, soothes and softens the skin.

With triple anti-photoaging action. Helps prevent sun damage by protecting the skin from urban pollution and fighting the oxidative damage caused; contributes to the repair of sun damage accumulated at the cellular level; promotes the stimulation of Q10 synthesis, improving the luminosity of the skin, also promoting the production of collagen and the reduction of wrinkles. It also contains hyaluronic acid, which improves the elasticity of the skin thanks to its moisturizing action.

Facial sunscreen for all skin types that prevents sun-induced hyperpigmentation. Reduces dark spots and prevents their reappearance.

Protects the skin from environmental damage, such as UVA/UVB rays and pollution, which can cause the first signs of aging. It promises to reduce wrinkles, sun spots and improve skin texture.

Facial sunscreen for acne-prone skin enriched with salicylic acid and niacinamide that provides very broad spectrum protection (against UVA, UVB, some IR-A rays and pollution). Prevents marks caused by UV rays.

Provides high protection against UVA, UVB and visible light, unifying skin tone. Corrects the signs of photoaging.