The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) light photons are the primary cause of skin damage. There are two main culprits. UVA is responsible for many of the visible signs of aging, while UVB light is considered the primary source of sunburn. Think “A” for aging and “B” for burning.
Tanning is due to the production of extra melanin pigment caused by UVA rays. However, UVA light penetrates deeper into the skin than UVB, destroying collagen. The result? Our skin loses its elasticity and smoothness, leading to wrinkles.
Certain skin molecules also pass absorbed UV energy onto free radicals which can result in an overload of the skin’s built-in antioxidant network leading to even further skin damage.
Some sun protection products only contain UVB protection. To protect your skin from both burning
and ageing, choose the broad-spectrum ones which contain both UVA and UVB filters. And for extra face protection against free radical damage, look for those that also include anti-oxidants such as Q10 and vitamins C and E.
High UVA/UVB sunscreens with specialised protection:
Piz Buin Sun Protection Allergy Face Cream Spf50+ specifically developed to protect sun-sensitive skin.
Eucerin Sun Photoaging Control Sun Lotion Extra Light SPF50+ protects against free radical damage, prevents photoaging and visibly reduces signs of skin ageing.
Cetaphil Sun Lotion SPF50+ non-greasy so suitable for oily as well as sensitive skins; for body and face
La Roche Posay Cicaplast B5 SPF50+ Balm to repair and soothe irritated skin, and prevent red or brown marks.
Bioderma Pigmentbio Brightening Day Care SPF50+ illuminates and protects. Helps reduce existing dark spots and prevent new pigmentation spots.
Nivea Sun Q10 Anti-Age & Anti-Pigments SPF50 with Q10 anti-oxidants to protect against premature ageing and dark spots.
Coverderm Filteray Face Tinted Sunscreen SPF40 UVA/UVB total block with Vitamin C for face.