Solar protection extends beyond sunburns - the surge in 'thermal aging' and its implications, along with preventive measures.
As the summer heat waves and increased UV exposure become more frequent due to climate change, it's crucial to prioritise skincare that shields against heat-aging and premature skin damage. Here's what you need to know to keep your skin looking youthful and radiant.
Heat-aging, a term coined to describe skin aging specifically caused or accelerated by heat exposure, is a significant concern for skincare enthusiasts. Unlike normal skin aging, which is a gradual process influenced by intrinsic factors like genetics and chronological age, heat-aging is a result of environmental factors such as heat, UV radiation, infrared, and pollution.
Sun damage is a significant contributor to premature skin aging. It breaks down collagen, elastin, and proteins that keep skin firm, plump, and youthful. UV rays, particularly UVA (referred to as 'A for ageing' as it penetrates deep into the dermis and is present all year round, even through glass and clouds), and UVB (referred to as 'B for burn' as it affects the skin's top layers and is the main cause of sunburn), are the main culprits.
Dr. Khan, a skincare expert, urges staying out of the sun whenever possible as a general rule. However, when sun exposure is unavoidable, using the best facial sunscreen is essential. Dr. Khan recommends using a daily broad-spectrum SPF (at least SPF 30, but preferably 50) every single day. In addition to SPF, Dr. Khan suggests using antioxidants like vitamin C to fight free radicals.
Other ingredients that can be effective in fighting free radical damage include niacinamide and resveratrol. Dr. Khan also recommends using barrier-supportive ingredients such as ceramides in skincare. Adapting skincare to climate is also important, opting for richer creams in dry heat and lightweight hydrators in humid weather.
Recent skincare launches cater to these needs. For instance, Hello Sunday's newest launch offers a mineral formula for those who prefer it. Alpha-H's new SPF uses Vitamin E and Amino-rich Hydrosella, and has a lightweight texture. K-beauty's most popular sunscreen is a favourite for its skin-loving ingredients and featherlight formula.
It's also important to remember that excessive heat can trigger inflammation in the skin, break down its barrier, increase melanin production (leading to pigmentation issues), and dehydrate the skin. To combat these effects, it's essential to stay hydrated and use skincare products that nourish and protect the skin barrier.
In conclusion, with longer, hotter summers and more intense UV exposure year-round, it's more important than ever to prioritise skincare that protects against heat-aging and premature skin damage. By following Dr. Khan's advice and using the right skincare products, you can keep your skin looking youthful and radiant all year round.
