HOW TO PROTECT YOUR SKIN

by Kathleen Browne, RN, BScN

Our skin is the largest organ in the human body.

The one we give the least amount of thought too, until we are not looking the way we remember ourselves. It all starts to change from:

1. exposure to the elements (sun, wind, rain, snow)
2. air pollution
3. smoking
4. dehydration
5. stress

All lead to premature ageing.

There are many different skin types and combinations thereof. Basic skin care is the same for all types. It is with the assistance of trained professionals who can recommend the best product combination for your skin type.

This is what you can do on a daily basis that does not require a lot of your time:

Cleanse. Tone. Moisturize. Apply Sunscreen.

Apply a broad spectrum sunscreen daily, with a minimum 30 SPF. This offers both UVA and UVB protection from the sun year-round. With sun exposure, UVA or UVB accounts for 90% of symptoms of premature ageing (ie. wrinkles).

Most people do not know how to apply sunscreen, nor how much is enough:

• Put sunscreen on first, before any make-up or insect repellent
• The recommendation is to apply 1 teaspoon to the face/head/neck
• Lip balm should have SPF, re-apply as needed
• Apply sunscreen to your chest/arms/hands, as they receive exposure from driving
• 2-3 tablespoons should cover the entire body
• Apply a second coat before leaving home
• Re-apply sunscreen 2 hours later

Things to Remember:

1. apply sunscreen everyday
2. stay hydrated
3. seek shade during the intense daylight hours (11 am to 4 pm)
4. cover-up with light coloured clothing
5. wear sunglasses with UV protection
6. use sunscreen with a minimum SPF 30
7. avoid tanning beds

Sun damage is preventable, not reversible.

Source: https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/sun-safety/sunscreens.html