Protect Your Skin: Why Daily Sunscreen and Skin Monitoring Matter

It’s not just for the month that we are evaluating our clients and taking a close look at their skin for any irregular patterns or changes.

I myself needed to have a physician take a look at a precarious spot. My staff had looked at it and believed it was nothing, but because of its location, right on the bridge of my nose, I needed confirmation.

I often take photos of a spot in question, sending it to the client for a source of reference. A skin cell life cycle is between 28 to 45 days depending on age, that’s how fast they can transform.

Following the advice of a professional licensed skincare provider instead of a social media influencer can help reduce confusion and misinformation around the health and well-being of your skin.

It is advised that sunscreen be worn on a regular basis, yes that means daily.

This is not to say that the sun isn’t good for you, it is. But the reality of how much sun you get for it to be healthy depends on many factors related to age, ethnicity, and overall health.

The purpose of sunscreen is to protect the skin from UVA and UVB radiation rays. UVB (burn rays) are the primary cause of painful sunburns. UVA (aging rays) break down collagen and elastin, causing premature aging. Sunscreen aids in shielding skin cell DNA from UV damage, which helps lower the risk of developing skin cancers, including melanoma, as well as helping prevent the formation of dark spots, sunspots, and melasma.

Sunscreen protection has come a long way over the years, helping clients decide on the right formula best suited for their skin and their needs. As a master aesthetician, I take the time to evaluate what formula is best for each skin type, activity level, and lifestyle.

There are two different types of sunscreen, physical and chemical. Physical, organic, or mineral sunscreens create a veil of protection on the skin. Chemical formulations are absorbed by the skin and may take up to 30 minutes before they are activated to reflect the sun.

At Summerfield Spa, Integrated Skin Center, I take it a step further and use a Skinscope, which helps clients identify for themselves: are they applying enough sunscreen, is the sunscreen giving the stated SPF, and are they being efficient with application and covering the entire face?

Keep an eye on your skin, or find a professional you trust to help you evaluate any changes that may cause concern. Take photos of any spots you see changing. Find a sunscreen you feel comfortable wearing daily.

It is not an age thing, it is a cellular thing. Protect your investment.