Tan, sunburn, skin aging ... learn to outsmart the harmful effects of sunlight by healthy habits and adequate protection.
The brightness of the sun is not only essential to the physical life, but also the mood. Will it something softer than a ray of sunshine that caresses the skin?
Unfortunately, the sun's rays are not as beneficial. In fact, they are often responsible for skin aging and skin cancer. The good news is that it is possible to prevent these effects: a good protective cream, good attitudes and voila!The effects of sun rays
The tanThe tan develops when the rays penetrate the deeper layers of the skin and stimulate the production of melanin, which migrates to the surface of the skin, giving the tan. Contrary to popular belief, a tanned skin is not synonymous with health. In fact, it is rather a skin response to assault. Generally, the higher the tan is darker, the skin damage is severe. Also note that a tanned skin does not replace good sun protection since tanning is roughly equivalent to a SPF (sun protection factor) of 4.
The skin agingSun damage on the skin are many: decreased hydration and elasticity, irregular pigmentation, roughness and dryness of the skin, etc. Prolonged and frequent exposure to sunlight and aging skin.
SunburnSunburn can develop within hours after excessive exposure and usually reaches its peak after 24 hours. Severe cases, including headache, fatigue or fever, require medical consultation. For an infant or young child, regardless of sunburn, it is best to consult a doctor.
Photosensitivity reactionsPhotosensitivity is an abnormal response of the skin to the combined action of certain substances and exposure to sunlight. Many products of all kinds, as some cosmetics or perfumes, do not mix with the sun. Less known phenomenon, some medications can also cause sun intolerance and local reactions. These medicines include antibiotics and diuretics, hormones, birth control pills and medicines against acne. Protection with an SPF of 45 or 60 is then suggested.
The skin cancerIf we do not adequately protect, UV rays can affect the body's defense mechanisms and promote the emergence of problems such as skin cancer. In the presence of a lesion, such as a mole from an abnormal appearance, it is better to talk with a health professional. You can suspect a more serious skin problem, such as melanoma (cancer) in the presence of a lesion with the following characteristics:
asymmetry;
irregular borders;
multiple colors;
dimension greater than 5 mm;
clear evolution.
When in doubt, it is best to consult a doctor.Sunscreen
The sun's rays can be reflected by sand, snow, white paint, aluminum foil and water. For example, the snow reflects 80% of sunlight. The protection is called for winter and summer.
The choice of a sun protection depends on several factors. The Canadian Dermatology Association recommends, to protect the long-term effects of sun exposure, an SPF of at least 15 for all. However, it suggests a higher SPF in various situations, such as children, pregnant women, people who take photosensitizing products that have a lighter or sensitive skin or who suffer from certain diseases.
The frequency of application of sunscreens varies activities. For example, if you work out several applications during the day will be needed. In this regard, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions on the packaging of the product used.
Finally, to enjoy outdoor activities, you have to protect property:
Use sunscreen with an SPF appropriate for your situation and provide UVA / UVB broad-spectrum protection, as Ombrelle®.
Choose a photostable UVA / UVB protection which retains its effectiveness during sun exposure.
Apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before sun exposure and repeat the application regularly, every 2 hours.
Apply sufficient lotion or cream.
Use at least an amount equivalent to the rounded palm full of sunscreen (about 30 mL) for application to the body.
Lotions and creams are not the only solution. Here are some tips:
Reduce your exposure to the sun between 11 am and 16 pm (the period when the rays are more concentrated) are planning your outdoor activities at the beginning and end of day.
Stay in the shade by choosing outdoor cafes with umbrellas or veranda or playing in the shade whenever possible.
Wear clothes that cover your arms and legs.
Wear a wide-brimmed hat and large sunglasses provide protection against UVA and UVB rays.
Sun protection for children
Creams or lotions are not recommended in children aged less than six months. At this age, children should rather wear clothes that protect from the sun. In addition, it is recommended not to expose babies and young children to direct sunlight. In children over six months, it is recommended the application of a lotion or a cream with an SPF of at least 30. It is suggested to opt for hypoallergenic products, specially designed for children.
To choose the lotion or cream best suited to your needs, do not hesitate to consult your pharmacist.
The brightness of the sun is not only essential to the physical life, but also the mood. Will it something softer than a ray of sunshine that caresses the skin?
Unfortunately, the sun's rays are not as beneficial. In fact, they are often responsible for skin aging and skin cancer. The good news is that it is possible to prevent these effects: a good protective cream, good attitudes and voila!The effects of sun rays
The tanThe tan develops when the rays penetrate the deeper layers of the skin and stimulate the production of melanin, which migrates to the surface of the skin, giving the tan. Contrary to popular belief, a tanned skin is not synonymous with health. In fact, it is rather a skin response to assault. Generally, the higher the tan is darker, the skin damage is severe. Also note that a tanned skin does not replace good sun protection since tanning is roughly equivalent to a SPF (sun protection factor) of 4.
The skin agingSun damage on the skin are many: decreased hydration and elasticity, irregular pigmentation, roughness and dryness of the skin, etc. Prolonged and frequent exposure to sunlight and aging skin.
SunburnSunburn can develop within hours after excessive exposure and usually reaches its peak after 24 hours. Severe cases, including headache, fatigue or fever, require medical consultation. For an infant or young child, regardless of sunburn, it is best to consult a doctor.
Photosensitivity reactionsPhotosensitivity is an abnormal response of the skin to the combined action of certain substances and exposure to sunlight. Many products of all kinds, as some cosmetics or perfumes, do not mix with the sun. Less known phenomenon, some medications can also cause sun intolerance and local reactions. These medicines include antibiotics and diuretics, hormones, birth control pills and medicines against acne. Protection with an SPF of 45 or 60 is then suggested.
The skin cancerIf we do not adequately protect, UV rays can affect the body's defense mechanisms and promote the emergence of problems such as skin cancer. In the presence of a lesion, such as a mole from an abnormal appearance, it is better to talk with a health professional. You can suspect a more serious skin problem, such as melanoma (cancer) in the presence of a lesion with the following characteristics:
asymmetry;
irregular borders;
multiple colors;
dimension greater than 5 mm;
clear evolution.
When in doubt, it is best to consult a doctor.Sunscreen
The sun's rays can be reflected by sand, snow, white paint, aluminum foil and water. For example, the snow reflects 80% of sunlight. The protection is called for winter and summer.
The choice of a sun protection depends on several factors. The Canadian Dermatology Association recommends, to protect the long-term effects of sun exposure, an SPF of at least 15 for all. However, it suggests a higher SPF in various situations, such as children, pregnant women, people who take photosensitizing products that have a lighter or sensitive skin or who suffer from certain diseases.
The frequency of application of sunscreens varies activities. For example, if you work out several applications during the day will be needed. In this regard, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions on the packaging of the product used.
Finally, to enjoy outdoor activities, you have to protect property:
Use sunscreen with an SPF appropriate for your situation and provide UVA / UVB broad-spectrum protection, as Ombrelle®.
Choose a photostable UVA / UVB protection which retains its effectiveness during sun exposure.
Apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before sun exposure and repeat the application regularly, every 2 hours.
Apply sufficient lotion or cream.
Use at least an amount equivalent to the rounded palm full of sunscreen (about 30 mL) for application to the body.
Lotions and creams are not the only solution. Here are some tips:
Reduce your exposure to the sun between 11 am and 16 pm (the period when the rays are more concentrated) are planning your outdoor activities at the beginning and end of day.
Stay in the shade by choosing outdoor cafes with umbrellas or veranda or playing in the shade whenever possible.
Wear clothes that cover your arms and legs.
Wear a wide-brimmed hat and large sunglasses provide protection against UVA and UVB rays.
Sun protection for children
Creams or lotions are not recommended in children aged less than six months. At this age, children should rather wear clothes that protect from the sun. In addition, it is recommended not to expose babies and young children to direct sunlight. In children over six months, it is recommended the application of a lotion or a cream with an SPF of at least 30. It is suggested to opt for hypoallergenic products, specially designed for children.
To choose the lotion or cream best suited to your needs, do not hesitate to consult your pharmacist.
