Advocating sun care for the face may seem tediously repetitive for anyone younger than 40. Conversely, those over 40 who failed to heed the warning when they had the chance, are looking for the fairytale clock that reverses the ravages of time.
Text: Sandie Cormie
Women are said to hold more negative views of age than men. Unprotected exposure to UV radiation will not only accelerate the visible signs of ageing, but it could also trigger one of the most sinister after effects with dire medical consequences later in life. Ideally, we’d like to raise awareness of the need for sun protection among both men and women of all ages, more as an intelligent response to an insidious danger than to promote aesthetic awareness.
We feel compelled to promote sunscreen as a necessary addition to your morning make-up routine as it is that important!
Humans experience chronological and photo-ageing. Whereas men age progressively during their lifetime, women experience an additional ageing blow with menopause. When the production of oestrogen and progesterone decreases, women go through accelerated visible changes to the skin. Melanin production is also affected, and it is not uncommon for menopausal women to experience melasma (uneven pigmentation on the face). So, if a woman is a sun lover during her younger years, when the chickens eventually come home to roost, the effect is likely to be more dramatic.
Sunscreen for the face is essential, not just for the longer-term aesthetic benefits but to help prevent any medical catastrophes in later years. Research undertaken by The Skin Cancer Foundation in America revealed two interesting findings:
1. Anyone who experiences five or more sunburns in their lifetime, their risk of melanoma doubles.
2. People who reported daily use of sunscreen showed 24% less skin ageing than those who did not consistently use sunscreen.
The findings expressed in point 1 indicate that anyone living in South Africa should be using a facial sunscreen daily. Age aside, people of European descent will find that their natural melanin content is not sufficiently dense to offer adequate natural sun protection. Go to cansa.org.za/be-smart and you will discover that everyone (regardless of race or ethnic group) is at risk for getting skin cancer, more so with the decreasing ozone levels.
It is worth noting that facial features prone to sunburn include ears and eyelids. It’s not just the top of your ears that need protection but the cartilage on the inside of the ear as well. Apply sunscreen over the whole face and wear a hat that has a wide enough brim to protect the outer and inner ear. Eyelids can be protected with UV sunglasses. Dis-Chems stocks a specially selected range of sg Sunblock Hats and Glareware UV protected sunglasses. Treat them as long-term investment purchases.
Love those lips
Lip care is often an afterthought in our sun protection routine. Like any other part of your body, your lips are sensitive to the harshness of the sun and sea. They need extra care to keep soft and looking their best. Look for a moisturising lip balm to get the perfect pout this summer.
- BioNike Proxera Lip Gel
- Payot Nutricia Lip Balm
Many sensible women are turning to BB creams (blemish balm/base) because they serve as a 3-in-1 foundation, moisturiser, and sunscreen. Lightly textured and multipurpose, BB creams provide coverage for 6–8 hours and cater for all skin types and tones. Fuss-free and money-saving try:
- BioNike Defence Hydractive BB cream, (Medium), SPF15
- Essence Hydro Hero 24h (05 Natural Ivory), SPF 20
- Garnier Skin BB Cream Oil Free (5 Medium), SPF 15
Check the SPF factor to ensure you have sufficient protection if you intend to spend time outdoors. Avoid costly mistakes and chat with one of our consultants to ensure you have chosen the right product for your specific needs.
Other sunscreen options that we highly recommend are:
- La Roche Posay Anthelios UVmune SPF50: Fragrance-free, ideal for sensitive and reactive skins, water-and-sand resistant, it can be used around the eyes and is suitable for face, neck and dècolletage.
- BioNike Defence Aknet Sun SPF50 High Protection: Contains a UVA and UVB filtering system that defends against free radicals and mitigates the harmful effects of sun exposure on acne-prone skin. Light, non-greasy, non-comedogenic and waterproof.
- Bioderma Photoderm Aquafluid (Light or Golden Tint): For all skin types, including sensitive and very fair, it has a mattifying and dry touch finish.
- Dermopal SPF30: Has moisturising, anti-ageing and anti-pigmentation properties.
- Vichy Capital Soleil SPF50: A broad spectrum, non-sticky formula that is light, resistant to sweat and water and contains hydrating components (hyaluronic acid, vitamin E and Vichy mineralising water).
- Cetaphil Sun Lotion SPF50: A chemical-free and light-weight sun lotion with vitamin E and prebiotics for sensitive face and body. Water resistant for up to 80 minutes.
We feel compelled to promote sunscreen as a necessary addition to your morning make-up routine as it is that important! Dis-Chem works hard to assemble the best possible selection of effective facial sunscreens for all skin tones, types, life stage and budget. Our consultants are trained to advise, assist, and ensure that you make the most appropriate choice for your requirements (there is no minimum spend to earn your Dis-Chem points!).
Enjoy the summer responsibly and remain mindful of protecting your face (and body) from sun damage with an invisible or lightly tinted sunscreen. Treat it as a “no regrets” purchase.
References: Ncbi.nim.nih.gov (Canada); everydayhealth.com; healthday.com; cansa.org.za
