As we come into summer, it is important to protect our skin from the UV rays that the beautiful summer sun brings. Sun damage is responsible for approx 85% of the aging of our skin. So this includes those fines lines, wrinkles and sun spots. If only we knew the damage we were doing as kids, but moving forward, we know now, and can do whatever we can to protect our skin, and that of our little ones. Protection is key! But what do we do if the damage has been done? I am happy to say, that there are a number of things that we can be doing, and ingredients that you can be using at home each day that will help to repair and refresh your sun damaged skin. Here are some ways that you can help to prevent further damage, and tend to the damage that has already been done.
Sunscreen is key!
No matter how long you think you will be in the sun, you need to use sunscreen every single day! Our skin cells feel the effects of the UV even if we are just at the clothesline, or driving in the car, so cover up! Whether you choose a mineral, or a chemical sunscreen, you need to be sure to apply enough to cover your face and body, and if you are in the sun all day, or out for a refreshing swim, you must reapply regularly to ensure the protection will last.
Avoid the sun at its peak!
The sun is at its most powerful between the hours of 10am and 2pm. This is when we need to be most careful, and unless absolutely necessary, we need to stay out of its rays. A good thing to keep fresh in your mind, If your shadow is shorter than you are, seek shade. Also remember to be extra careful near water, snow, and sand. They reflect the damaging rays of the sun. This can increase your chances of sunburn.
Try these active ingredients to help reverse sun damage
Topical Retinols
Retinol, a derivative of vitamin A, works by encouraging cell turnover and increasing collagen production, both of which help set damaged skin cells on a healthier course. Retinol also gently exfoliates your skin and increases collagen production, which can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, giving your skin a fresher, plump appearance. Retinol may not be for everyone. Some skins do not tolerate it very well, but if this is you, don’t worry! Bakuctiol is your go to. This vegan botanical alternative to traditional retinol that helps brighten the look of skin and visibly improves the appearance of an uneven skin tone. Your vitamin A is best applied in the evening, starting just a couple nights a week, and gradually increasing to nightly use over time. If you are using this powerhouse ingredient. However, you must be diligent with your sunscreen as regular use will make your skin more delicate to the sun, which may result in further cellular damage, so another reason to slip slop slap!
We love Skin Matrix Revive A+
This Encapsulated Retinol Peptide complex is your skins best friend, encouraging cellular and collagen renewal, whilst nourishing, soothing and repairing sun damaged skin. Cloudberry offers a rich source of beta carotene, Vitamin E, minerals and skin hydrating qualities which help visibly repair a compromised skin. Packed with loads of Vitamin C, Cloudberry brightens and energizes a dull complexion and is perfection for even the most sensitive and dehydrated skin.
How to use
Use every other night until the skin has adjusted. Then use it nightly. Revert back to every other night if needed. Apply 1 pump after cleansing and moisturise after application.
Cosmedix Bakuchiol Complete
Help reduce the look of fine lines while hydrating the skin with this unique PlantBased Retinol Alternative Serum. Bakuchiol Complete is a light and conditioning serum that is powered by Bakuchiol. How to use. Apply a small amount onto freshly cleansed and toned skin morning and/or night.
Vitamin C
Adding a Vitamin C serum or moisturizer to your morning routine will help to neutralize the harmful effects of UVA and UVB rays and encourage the production of collagen and prevent further DNA damage. Vitamin C is also known for its brightening properties, and may also help to reduce pigmentation. Your skin cells will love this powerful antioxidant!
Niacinamide
Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B. B3 to be exact will stimulate and ensure healthy DNA repair. Yes, please! Using niacinamide daily can
• Minimise hyperpigmentation
• Reduce fine lines and wrinkles
• Decrease redness and inflammation
• Improve skin elasticity
Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B. B3 to be exact will stimulate and ensure healthy DNA repair. Yes please! This essential key nutrient helps build and strengthen proteins in the skin and offers protection against environmental damage. Niacinamide helps to deeply hydrate by preventing the evaporation of moisture from the skin, and will also help to reduce inflammation, and redness in the skin. Using Niacinamide each day will make sure your skin in happy, healthy plump and hydrated
We love Skin matrix IQ Serum
It takes your vitamin B and C serums to a whole new level. This one stop serum takes the layering out of your routine as it delivers the perfect cocktail of actives to you skin daily.
Benefits
• Contains Mega Doses of Vitamin B (Niacinamide Vitamin B3), and Vitamin C which are effective ingredients that target ageing, pigmentation, capillary damage (redness, rosacea), sensitivity, sun damage & scarring.
• Contains proteins required by the skin to produce collagen and elastin and give the skin a more youthful appearance.
• An effective anti-ageing serum that does not contain Vitamin A, meaning you can use it morning and night and can use whilst pregnant and lactating.
• Contains Hyaluronic Acid which is a great skin hydrator, smooths the skins surface, reduces fine lines and calm irritated skins.
• Contains an oil soluble form of Vitamin C that penetrates and is absorbed into the skin more effectively than other forms of Vitamin C. It is also a highly stable form of Vitamin C, unlike L-Ascorbic acid that oxidises very quickly. This C will not oxidize meaning longer shelf life and more results for you!
• Contains no acids, it is gentle on the skin, luscious silky texture.
How to use
Apply after cleansing morning and night
Unfortunately, sun damage is something that we are all too familiar with. But, no matter your age, or severity of damage, there are things you can do from home. While you may have considered treatments such as fillers, laser, and other invasive, costly, and often painful treatments to improve your sun damage, it is always nice to know that there are more natural approaches available. xx
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