Having fun in the sun is something that we can all enjoy, as long as we look after our skin. Sun protection is a vital part of any summertime skin routine; however, this can also apply in the wintertime, especially when skiing. Over the past decade, sun protection and awareness has been heightened due to the increase in the number of skin cancer cases. Developed knowledge of UVA and UVB rays, plus the damaging effects of free radicals on the skin, has also boosted the need for the incorporation of sun protection within our skin care routines.

How does the sun affect our skin?

UVA and UVB rays from the sun have a withering effect on facial skin. The creation of free radicals erodes and destroys skin cells. Normally hydrated skin will be drained of moisture due to sun damage and once skin is burnt by the sun, and it may never be the same again. Burnt skin ages quicker than facial skin that employs effective sun protection. Fine lines and wrinkles can appear prematurely and skin can become visually sallow. This is due the loss of collagen, which is a protein within the skin that maintains its elasticity and vitality.

Ways to protect your skin from the sun.

There are many ways to prevent sun damage and make the most of sun protection. It's always advisable to avoid periods within the day when the sun is the highest in the sky. If it is necessary to go out at these times, always keep skin covered up and also use a protection cream with a high SPF level. Using sun screens with high protection factors is advisable to block the damaging effects of UVA and UVB rays.

Making a few slight changes to your skin care routine during times of sun exposure will have long-term benefits for your skin. Changing your regular moisturizer to a moisturizer with an SPF level will boost your sun protection throughout the day.

Taking care of your lips in the sun is vital. With lighter skin tones, lips hold barely any melanin, which is a skin pigment that protects your skin from sun exposure. Lips are also prone to moisture-loss and chapping. Using a lip balm or protector with a sun block will prevent burning and wrinkles around the mouth.

UV filters and SPF levels.

Anthelios SX from La Roche Posayis an SPF 15 moisturizer with sunscreen that protects skin from UVA and UVB rays. Within this everyday moisturizer is an ingredient called Mexoryl SX that acts as a UV filter, protecting skin cells and maintaining a youthful appearance. Applying this sun protection daily cares for facial skin in multiple ways – most importantly filtering UV rays and keeping skin hydrated.

Peter Thomas Roth's oil-free sunblock is another product that protects skin effectively to ward off aging, as well as offers the powerful SPF 30. This fragrance free product is a non-irritant that can be used on all skin types. Using a sun block at the beach or while skiing is advisable as sea water, sand, and snow are very reflective and increase sun exposure by up to 80%!

Using sun protection within your skin care routine is common sense – protect your skin from the elements and your keep your skin's vitality. Sun protection will keep skin looking youthful, vibrant and hydrated.