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Well, after decades of skin science, the verdict is in. Sunscreen can, in fact, slow skin aging — but maybe not in the way you think. Though sunscreen cannot pause the hands of time, it can stop the harmful radiation that exacerbates the signs of skin aging, such as dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles. Let's review the facts behind this skincare myth once and for all!
To understand the truth behind sunscreen's anti-aging effects, it's important to first discuss why we need sun protection in the first place. (Hint: It's not just about avoiding sunburn.) The sun emits two types of ultraviolet radiation (UV rays) that reach human skin. Ultraviolet B (UVB) rays are the stronger of the two and are responsible for sun damage like sunburn and most skin cancers.
Ultraviolet A (UVA) rays, on the other hand, have slightly less energy than UVB rays and are known to cause skin cells to age. Repeated exposure to UVA rays has been linked to several skin aging effects, including but not limited to dilated blood vessels, increased melanin pigment, and fine lines across the skin. It also creates elastotic material, which can give the skin a textured appearance.
In other words, sun exposure can directly lead to skin aging. So, we must apply sunscreen that protects against both UVB and UVA rays — often known as broad-spectrum sunscreen — to shield our skin from age-inducing damage. Don't believe it can help? Studies show that those who use a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily experience 24% less skin aging. Yes, really!
So, if we know that sunscreen can protect the skin from harmful UV rays that
cause severe sun damage, why do some people believe that sunscreen as an anti-aging concept is a myth? Well, the truth is, no product is truly anti-aging. The skin will always age, no matter what you put on it! However, the right products (like sunscreen) can definitely limit the signs of aging.
For instance, we've all seen this infamous picture of the truck driver veteran with dramatically more signs of aging on the side of his face exposed to the driver's-side window. While this gentleman's entire face shows obvious signs of aging, it's evident that the side constantly exposed to UV rays has drastically deeper wrinkles, more cross-hatched lines, and dark spots.
Any esthetician will tell you that you cannot stop your face from aging. We're only born with one face, and as we go through life, several environmental and lifestyle factors will cause our skin cells to age. Fortunately, you can delay the signs of aging with a trusted broad-spectrum sunscreen and a regimen of proven skincare products. My favorite Korean sunscreens offer excellent protection while being lightweight and easy to wear daily. Here are the products I recommend to my clients!
Estie Tip: Find every product you need to fight skin aging with my Anti-aging Skincare Routine Bundle!
Serums should be applied after cleansing but before moisturizer for maximum penetration and optimal results. These powerful formulas deliver concentrated ingredients directly to the skin, targeting specific concerns for visible improvements.
Moisturizer locks in each anti-aging ingredient you layer and provides a dose of hydration to combat fine lines and wrinkles. Opt for a rich, creamy formula to deeply nourish your skin and maintain its suppleness throughout the day. Remember, well-moisturized skin is more resilient and better equipped to handle environmental stressors.
Estie Tip: Always apply a conducting gel (like the CBE Botanicals Conducting Gel and Mask) before using devices!
If you feel like you've tried everything under the sun to slow skin aging, you might be missing one thing: sunscreen! I cannot overstate just how important proper sun protection is. Remember to slather on a generous layer of broad-spectrum sunscreen on your face, neck, décolleté, and anybody parts exposed to the sun. Fighting skin aging begins by fighting the sun's UV rays!
Q: Can sunscreen really prevent wrinkles? A: Yes, sunscreen can help prevent wrinkles by protecting your skin from the harmful UVA and UVB rays that cause skin aging.
Q: How often should I apply sunscreen? A: Apply sunscreen every morning and reapply every two hours if you are exposed to the sun. Don’t forget to reapply after swimming or sweating.
Q: Do I need sunscreen if I stay indoors? A: Yes, UVA rays can penetrate through windows, so it’s important to wear sunscreen even if you’re indoors.
Q: Can I use makeup with SPF instead of sunscreen? A: While makeup with SPF is helpful, it’s usually not enough. Use a dedicated broad-spectrum sunscreen underneath your makeup for full protection.
Want to access additional tips to slow the signs of aging and improve the appearance of skin tone, texture, and tightness? Join me in the Christine Byer Beauty Club! Inside, you can access personalized support for your skincare questions, unlock savings on products, and even win a free consultation with me! Begin your 14-day free preview of the Beauty Club today.
Trying to keep our skin healthy and glowing is a lifelong process. It protects us, shields us, and defines us in a lot of ways! But every layer of the skin acts as our armor in a different way. On the very top, we all have a "skin barrier" that requires its own care for long-term health.
