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DERMAL AESTHETICS
COOL PROTECTION. SPF IN WINTER. By Kirsty Sinclair
Although we are coming into the cooler months, it is still important to keep sun protection top of mind. The common misconception is that if the temperature drops, so too does the UV. However, this is not the case. According to the Australian Bureau of Meteorology, there is no link between UV levels and how hot or cold it is outside. That means that sun exposure in winter is still contributing to premature skin ageing. Not to mention the increased exposure to dehydrating factors winter, including cold, dry air and heaters that are stripping the skin of its moisture. When choosing a daily winter sun protection, opt for something with additional hydration and antioxidants to help combat dehydration and sallow looking skin. Ingredients like Glycerine and Vitamin E help maintain moisture levels and protect from external free radical damage, leaving skin looking plump, smooth and supple in the dreary winter months. To maintain adequate sun protection and ensure protection from dehydration you should reapply your SPF every 2 hours. Another common miss conception, not only in winter but all year round, 44
Beauty Biz Year 12 Issue 4
is that an SPF50+ allows you to stay in the sun longer or avoid reapplication, however again, this is not the case. An SPF30 absorbs 96.7% of all UV rays and an SPF50+ absorbs 98%. While an SPF50+ does filter a higher percentage of UV rays, sunscreen tests are completed in a controlled laboratory environment that unfortunately does not account for common usage occasions. When wearing sunscreen, we are often at the beach, by the pool or exercising outdoors where swimming, towel drying and perspiring can all effect the integrity of sunscreen. Therefore, according to testing, both SPF30 and SPF50+ should be reapplied every 2 hours. If you’re lucky enough to be escaping the cold winter weather with a tropical holiday, don’t be fooled by higher SPF ratings available overseas. In Australia sunscreens are regulated by the TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration), the same regulatory body that govern the sales of medicines and medical devices. Due to the high UV exposure in Australia and a high incidence of skin cancer, the TGA enforce some of the strictest sunscreen laws around the world to ensure the safety of all Australian consumers. Unfortunately,
those higher rated SPF sunscreens overseas may not be tested to same standard of those available in Australia. For that reason, remember to reapply every 2 hours and use sunscreen in conjunction with other sun protection measures including: - Slip on sun protectant clothing to cover as much skin as possible. - Slop on some sunscreen at least 20 minutes prior to sun exposure using a minimum SPF30 broad spectrum product; sunscreen should not be used as a standalone sun protectant strategy and should not allow for an extended period of time in the sun. - Slap on a hat; broad rimmed or legionnaires hat is best. Seek shade and avoid all sun exposure where possible. - Slide on sunglasses that meet Australian Standards for UV protection. Be sun smart this winter! Learn more about the smart sun protection options Advanced Skin Technologies offer at www.advancedskin.com.au/