Why SPF is the best investment towards healthy aging.

As Estheticians, we have heard it all: "I need a base tan before my vacation" or "I tan naturally, so I don't use SPF." We have been there and understand the temptation to get a sun-kissed glow. However, many of us overindulge sun exposure in summer months and expect to reverse the damage come fall with aggressive treatments. This summer, protect your skincare investment by incorporating SPF in your daily routine!

SPF Misconceptions: 

A common SPF myth is you don't need it on a cloudy day, but you do! The UV index, which describes the chance of exposure to burning rays, changes throughout the day but doesn't disappear when the sun does. For those who rarely burn, don't be fooled; there are two types of harmful rays, both affecting the skin differently.

UVA: Aging rays have a longer wavelength, which penetrates the deeper layers of the skin and causes premature aging. UVA rays can cause skin laxity (lack of firmness), collagen reduction (plumpness), and produce sunspots years after exposure. 

UVB: Burning rays have a shorter wavelength and affect the top layers of the skin. UVB rays are responsible for the sunburn you experience after exposure and can cause different types of skin cancer over time.

Although your makeup might advertise SPF as an ingredient, there is commonly not enough per application to protect your skin. At Sorella, both of our SPF's are broad-spectrum and have mineral-based formulas. Broad-spectrum protects against UVA and UVB rays, and mineral-based means they do not penetrate the skin or contain harmful chemicals. Our Tropical Topical Matte SPF 30 will leave your skin feeling shine-free, an excellent option for those who are breakout prone. The Quench and Protect SPF 30 has vitamin B5, which is known to repair the skin barrier, a no-brainer for sensitive or dry skin! 

We understand routines take time to build and maintain. If you are new to SPF, give it a whirl, your skin will thank you over time. Better yet, rock the healthy no-makeup glow all summer long, and be sure to reapply your SPF throughout the day! Although the effects of UV damage are not always immediate, an SPF can be your skin's best chance at aging gracefully.

Written by Sorella Apothecary