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Sun Exposure, Photo-Aging, and Unique Product to Help

A recent NC Solutions questionnaire about consumer sunscreen habits, revealed that 28% of Americans never wear sunscreen because they think don't burn, hate the greasy feeling or want to tan faster. 52% wear sunscreen only in the summer and 59% don't wear it on cloudy days. And yet, the sun is one of the biggest offenders to our skin health and to the photo-aging of our skin! 

What causes Photo-aging?

The sun emits different types of ultraviolet radiation, including UV-A, UV-B, and UV-C. The Earth's atmosphere blocks most of the harmful UV-C and a significant portion of UV-B radiation. UV-A radiation, while less intense, can still cause significant skin damage. Prolonged and repeated exposure to UV radiation, is a major contributor to premature skin aging, also known as photoaging. UV radiation damages the collagen and elastin fibers in the skin, leading to the development of wrinkles, fine lines, age spots, and loss of skin elasticity. In fact, as much as 80% of our skin aging is attributed the external stressor – the sun.

Does the UV index tell us when we get Photo-aging?

UV index numbers are established every day by Meteorological Agencies and  range from Low 0-2, Moderate 3-5, High 6-7, to Very High/Extreme 8-11. UV index values of 3 or higher are generally considered to be moderate to high risk, indicating that you should take precautions to protect your skin. However, photoaging is a cumulative process, meaning the damage adds up over time with repeated exposure, even at lower UV index values. Protecting your skin from the sun's harmful UV rays not only helps prevent photoaging, but also reduces the risk of skin cancer and other sun-related health issues.

How do we prevent Photo-aging?

  1. Sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen that targets both UVB and UVA rays. Remember the SPF rating only relates to UVB.  Apply it generously to all exposed skin, even on cloudy days. Re-apply every 2 hours.
  2. Shade: Seek shade, especially during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), when UV radiation is strongest.
  3. Protective Clothing: Wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses to shield your skin and eyes from the sun.
  4. Skin repair: Use a sunscreen that protect and repairs the skin from UV exposure. Use a moisturizer post sun exposure that is full of anti-oxidants to combat free radicals set off by the sun. 

A unique multi-function Sunscreen that addresses Photo-aging

 Bluevado SunFix is the first sunscreen based on recent research published in Nature Scientific Reports that shows new ingredient Methylene Blue acts as a full spectrum (UVB and UVA) sunscreen, by absorbing UV radiation. SunFix offers broad-spectrum protection, which means it protects against both UVA (100%) and UVB (95.2) rays. It relies on Methylene Blue’s well-known properties as a super-antioxidant and mitochondrial healer to repair and prevent aging damage to the skin. SunFix is both a sunscreen and a moisturizer in a lightweight formula that absorbs quickly. It will not leave a greasy film or white shine on skin, making it cosmetically elegant and perfect to wear under foundation.