kiss goodbye to summer and welcome the colder months

While we kiss goodbye one of the weirdest summers and welcome Autumn and Winter into our open arms (or not for all those sun bunnies out there) it's a good time to brush up on our UV radiation facts to remind us that while the 'suns out buns out' insta tags decrease UV radiation does not. So here's a quick refresher:

UVB rays

Think of it as UV Burning. This radiation wavelength is shorter so penetrates the epidermis and holds heat, thus the feeling like a rotisserie chicken on those sunny days. UVB causes sunburn. sunburn is when your skin has absorbed more UV radiation than its Melanocytes, which are the cells that product pigment to protect each cell nucleus form damage can absorb. Sunburn is a sign that genetic damage to your cells has occurred. And no amount of Aloe Vera gel is going to fix the damage you have done.

UVB is strongest between the hours of 11am-3pm, and is also stronger during summer than winter. This is why many people let their guard down once the weather cools down. And here's why you shouldn't:

UVA rays

Think of it as UV Ageing. UVA doesn't hold heat, so you can't feel it. It doesn't burn, so it's hard to tell when you've had too much. It's a longer wavelength and penetrates right down to the dermis. UVA is the same strength fro sunrise to sunset, and its strength stays the same all year round...in all weather conditions... rain... hail...shine.

While both wavelengths cause damage to the cell nucleus (which can lead to cell death, duplication of damaged genetic material which will result in poor functioning and no to mention skin cancer) UVA also activates the release of Collagenase and Elastase, which, you guessed it, break down our collagen and elastin fibres leading to premature ageing.

Now even if you work deep in the belly of an office all day, keep in mind you are driving to and from work, having a lunch break or ducking out for some fresh air, the whole time exposed to damaging UV radiation.

So protect your cells 'brains' and protect that glorious organ called The Skin that works so damn hard day in day out to protect you.

Wear a hat, sunglasses, cover up with clothing where you can. If you 'hate' the feeling of sunscreen on your skin there are literally millions of options to choose from. Speak to your Skin Therapist to help find a formula that works best for you depending on your skin type, lifestyle and preferences. At the end of the day, the best sunscreen for you is the one you will happily wear every single day.

Written by Bronwyn xx