August 09, 2019
Skincare, Sun Damage & Pollution Prevention
SUN DAMAGE
We are told time and time again about the importance of avoiding sun damage, research has shown that over time the sun is responsible for how our skin looks and feels. Areas that are often concerns such as ageing, wrinkles, sagging and discolouration, all can be heightened by the sun without careful care. Aside from a clean skincare routine containing exfoliants and antioxidants, regular and consistent use of SPF will build a defensive barrier against the sun.
SPF is even more integral dependent on facial treatments, those of us that attend regular facials or laser treatments must use a higher factor of SPF. 111SKIN Aesthetic Trainer, Nadiya Kostova confirms “I use SPF 100+ on many of my clients who undergo laser or chemical treatments, with the intensity around their routines, it is vital I protect their skin from damage post treatment”. Often applying a chemically focused sunscreen is not always favoured but the options between chemical and mineral sunscreen is down to personal preference. Chemical sunscreens are considered the most effective, but a natural alternative are sunscreens that offer a concentrated percentage of Zinc Oxide and as an active ingredient is treated as a natural sun protectant. All in all, the importance of SPF, is for this to be added to your routine on a daily basis and under your daily moisturiser, if you attend regular treatments then a specialised or high factor SPF is strongly recommended.
UVA & UVB RAYS
Although emphasis is placed on the initial damage caused by the sun, an even greater factor towards skin damage is the UVA and UVB rays that are also an assailant. UVA, which accounts for approximately 95% of the UV light that reaches our skin, is dangerous as you do not feel the effect of it. UVA is what causes the tan we all crave each summer but, once hitting our skin this penetrates and damages every layer of it. UVB, although not as present as UVA, is dependent on climate and location, the light reflects off sand, water and snow and is more damaging in higher altitudes. Combined, UVA and UVB steadily destroys key substances in our skin that gives the desired firmness and elasticity.
In terms of protecting the skin from free radicals from the sun and UV light, the use of exfoliants and antioxidants in your skincare routine is highly recommended. Antioxidants fight the formation of free radicals, helping prevent some of the damage emitted by the sun. Our experts insist that after prolonged sun exposure we should be using products containing antioxidants and vitamins, our Vitamin C Brightening Booster, Anti Age Day Emulsion or Rose Gold Brightening Facial Treatment Mask contain these in order to strengthen your skin’s barrier.
BLUE LIGHT
We have rethought what pollution means for skincare in the 21st century. We considered whether pollution today is just to think about particulate air pollution or has our understanding evolved to accommodate the digit age? People living in urban environments are exposed less to solar radiation during the day but are exposed to higher levels of artificial light at night. Blue light is a particular concern, as it is emitted from frequently used objects like computer screens, phones and tablets. Clinical research has shown that exposure to blue light wavelengths (400-490 nm) can be harmful to the skin, causing free radical damage (reactive oxygen species) but the long-term effects of blue light damage has not been studied yet. Our Pollution Defence Booster is formulated to combat and shield against blue light damage, the unique formulation contains powerful botanic and peptide complexities that protect the skin from all forms of pollution, especially pollutions we are facing in the digital age.
All areas combined, our skin is battling against many complexities, especially facing climate and digital pollution. By listening and working with your skin, investing in your routine and altering its needs, you will minimise skin damage overall and improve its health and longevity.