Enjoy The Summer – Cool~ Protected ~ Safe!

Posted by Rhonda Allison on 05-18-2010

 Shielding the skin from damaging UV rays is important year round, and particularly so during the summer months when more time is spent outdoors. May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, and a good time for a refresher on protecting the skin.

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S. It’s estimated that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in the course of a lifetime. If developing cancer isn’t fuel enough to protect the skin, remember that 90percent of photoaging (wrinkles, brown spots, slack skin, etc.) directly result from UV exposure.  

 The sun’s not so beautiful rays

The UV rays that affect the skin are composed UVA and UVB waves. UVB rays are shorter and what cause sunburns, while UVA rays have longer wavelengths and are responsible for photoaging damage. These rays reach deep into thedermis damaging collagen fibers by forming abnormal amounts of elastin and increasing metalloproteinases production. Collagen begins to malfunction and decompose,incorrectly rebuilding the skin and forming wrinkles along the way. This process repeats every time skin is exposed to UVA rays. 

So what’s your defense? Despite what much of the media reports, make-up with low SPFs do not provide enough protection. Always opt for an SPF30 and steer clear of chemical-based formulas, instead look for formulas with natural zinc barrier.The Daytime Defense SPF30 and eZinc Protection Cream use zinc as a naturalblock while also delivering antioxidants to the skin. The Daytime Defense also works for men, and in addition to the RAW Environ Protect, which combines zinc and powerful antioxidants, works to inhibit free radical damage.

Relief from overexposure

If you’ve had too much sun the Therapy E Serum will help repair and heal, givingthe skin a soothing blast of vitamin E. Follow with Super C Serum to rejuvenate and help rebuild collagen damage. If your skin is irritated or you just needcooling down, mist on the Cucumber Spritz for instant hydration and cooling. The Calming Skin Gel will provide soothing support and relief since it is aloe based. Here are a few additional tips:

• Seek the shade, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Avoid tanning booths
• Opt for a sunless tanner like the Bronzed DN-Age Self Tanner
• Wear a hat and clothing that offers SPF protection
• Hydrate – always carry water with you
• Boost antioxidant support of the skin by applying Therapy E Serum under SPF

How do you protect your skin? What doyou send clients home with for the summer? During the hot summer months it’s important to moderate correctives and boost antioxidant support. We’ve put together a special Summer Essentials kit to help you prepare clients. For more information, visit us online.