Why Sunscreen is The Most Important Product in Your Skincare Regimen
In honor of National Sunscreen Day, we are here to share four reasons why incorporating SPF into your daily routine is the single best thing you can do for your skin, and why sunscreen is the most important product in your skincare regimen.
1.Sunscreen reduces the risk of skin cancer
First, you might not know that there are two kinds of UV rays that are radiated from the sun. The first is UVB, which affects the surface of your skin and causes burning. UVB=Burn
.Daily use of an SPF 15 or higher sunscreen reduces the risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) by about 40 percent and melanoma by 50 percent.” - Skincancer.org This fact alone should be motivation enough to be consistent with your SPF application.
2. Sun damage is the leading cause of premature aging
Did you know that 90% of skin aging is due to the sun?! That’s from UVA rays, which go deeper into the skin. UVA= Aging
UVA radiation from the sun causes skin proteins to deteriorate. This results in loss of volume and increased pigmentation, freckles, fine lines, wrinkles… all of which make you appear older. Luckily, this damage is manageable and the increased signs of aging due to sun exposure are virtually preventable with proper use of SPF.
Our top recommendation for sun-damaged skin
Lytera® 2.0 Advanced Pigment Correcting System
When used together, these six SkinMedica® products have been clinically shown to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation as well as overall photodamage, while maintaining and preventing the appearance of future discoloration. Includes broad spectrum sunscreen SPF 34.
3. Sunscreen protects your investment in medical-grade skincare
When it comes to glowing skin, the two products any aesthetician will recommend are retinol and sunscreen. Retinol is designed to go deep into your skin to promote skin cell turnover, increase collagen production, and decrease breakdown. It takes anywhere from 6-12 weeks to see optimal results from retinol, and you may notice slight irritation or sensitivity in your skin when using. It’s recommended to use retinol in your nightly skincare routine for two reasons. 1) It gives your skin a chance to recover while you sleep and 2) it helps to avoid sun exposure immediately after application. Why do you want to avoid sun exposure when using retinol? Simple! Because your skin is more sensitive. Furthermore, sun exposure can actually break down the retinol structure, reducing its efficacy.
Our Top Retinol + Sunscreen Recommendations
Pro-tip: You can get any SkinMedica item shipped to you with free 2-day shipping from the Urban You Brilliant Connections online storefront. Plus, earn and redeem your Brilliant Distinctions points on your purchases! We can even set up an auto-ship subscription for you, so you never go a day without sun protection. PLUS you will save 20% on your auto-ship orders.
4. Sunscreen protects your investment in medical-grade skin treatments
If you are 25 or older, you are likely investing in regular monthly medspa skin treatments (and if you arent, you should be ;] ) Whether that be a Hydrafacial, Diamond Glow Facial, Microneedling, Chemical Peel, or other customized services, each treatment uses a form of exfoliation to increase the skin cell turnover rate to give your skin that youthful glow and even texture. Much like the use of retinol, exfoliation can make your skin more sensitive, making SPF absolutely essential, especially immediately after treatment.
Best SPF for post-treatment
NEW! sunbetter® TONE SMART SPF 68 Sunscreen Compact
Broad spectrum protection in a tone-adapting compact that provides a hint of color.
The perfect protection and light coverage for summer! Now available at all Urban You locations in Grand Rapids and Northville.
There you have it, four reasons that sunscreen is the most important product in your skincare regimen.
If you have questions about SPF, skin treatments, or anything related to modern beauty and wellness we recommend scheduling a complimentary consultation with one of our skincare experts! They can do everything from recommend products to build a personalized treatment plan to help you reach your glowing skin goals.
Spoiler: Sunscreen will be a part of your regimen and treatment plan ;]