The truth about the spring sun: Why your skin is at risk before summer
Although we often associate sunscreen with holidays and the beach, ultraviolet (UV) rays from the spring sun are already intense enough to damage the skin. During this time of year, we spend more hours outdoors and our skin, emerging from winter with less melanin, is more unprotected. Applying a daily photoprotector to the face not only prevents photoaging and spots, but is also the most effective health measure against skin cancer. Remember to choose a protection factor adapted to your skin type and reapply it if you spend a long time in the sun.
The danger of the “lazy sun”: Why does spring confuse us?
In spring, we have a false sense of security. Since the ambient temperature is not yet very high and there is often a cool breeze, we think the sun does not burn. But beware: the intensity of ultraviolet radiation does not depend on how hot it is, but on the position of the sun.
From April onwards, the UV index rises rapidly and reaches levels similar to those in August. Furthermore, our skin arrives in spring “asleep” and pale after months of winter; it has a lower amount of melanin (our natural defense), which makes the risk of suffering hidden burns much higher.
Consequences of not protecting yourself during these months
Damage from solar radiation is cumulative. The skin has a memory, and the sun you take in today while having an aperitif on a terrace, walking through the park, or going on a mountain hike has a direct impact on your health:
- Minimum SPF 30 or 50: For daily use in the city, a factor 30 may be sufficient if you do not spend much time exposed, but if responsibilities or work force you to be outdoors, opt directly for SPF 50.
- Quantity matters: There is no point in applying just a drop of cream for the entire face. The correct measurement is two fingers of product to cover the face, ears, and neck.
- Include it in your morning routine: Photoprotector should be the last step of your beauty routine, right after moisturizing cream and before makeup (if you use it).
Seek advice from professionals
Every skin has a different need: acne-prone skin will need an oil-free texture, while mature skin will appreciate a protector with antioxidant active ingredients such as vitamin C or hyaluronic acid.
If you have doubts about which is the best sunscreen for your skin type or how to combine it with your daily creams, come to the pharmacy. We will be happy to analyze your skin and recommend the perfect shield to enjoy spring with total safety.
