By iS Clinical International Trainer, Deidre Ramdhanie
SPF application is an essential part of a daily skin care regimen. In the modern industry, experts and physicians are well versed on how and why forgoing SPF is the most damaging error a consumer can make. UVR [ultraviolet radiation] is the common factor that negatively impacts all skin condition, types, diseases, and disorders. The influence UVR has on our skin does not lessen based upon the hemisphere one lives in, season, age, ethnicity, skin tone, or gender. Many people believe the massive skin myth that SPF is not necessary during the winter, but at iS Clinical we make it our mission to educate on the importance of SPF usage throughout the year, via concrete evidence.
UVA & UVB
95% of radiation comes from UVA [ultraviolet ageing rays]. UVA penetrates the dermis, deteriorating skin’s scaffolding of proteins, such as collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid. UVA does not lessen in strength during the winter and is still active and present on the greyest and coldest days. UVA’s counterpart, UVB [ultraviolet burning rays], are equally damaging and are harmful even without tanning or burning. Believe it or not, there is no such thing as a “healthy tan”.
Skin Concerns
Skin cancer does not appear overnight: it is a cumulative process that does not seasonally deactivate. The same can be said for the ageing process, hyperpigmentation formation, and acne. With falling temperatures and dry air, the skin’s barrier is automatically compromised, as TEWL (transepidermal water loss) will increase and the lipid barrier can weaker, especially for those who have naturally dry or sensitive skin.
Picking a SPF
Now that you are convinced that SPF is important in the colder months as well, the next question is: which one?
When it comes to SPF, there is no wrong answer, only that one may suit you better than the other. Two main factors will be key in selecting the best SPF for you:
- Skin type
- Skin concern
Much of the product selection will simply boil down to textural preference.
Many people will gravitate to Extreme Protect SPF 30 or 40 once the brisk weather sets in. The name of this product says it all! With a superior blend of antioxidants, Extremozymes, and hydration and moisture sourced from aloe and olive leaf extract, this SPF option definitely covers the basis.
For those with a naturally dry skin type or those who feel noticeably dry once winter sets in, this will become a staple to your winter skin routine.
Eclipse SPF 50+, the lightest of the iS Clinical SPF family, may not be an obvious choice for winter skin proofing. However, there is a demographic of highly active individuals who opt for this product in all seasons. It is popular among athletes, as sweating in winter sports is still a factor in their decision making as Eclipse SPF 50+ is a lighter texture.
By forgoing daily SPF use, we see and feel a collection of manifestations on the skin and put our health at risk. UVR induces barrier impairment, allowing more pollutant, viral, and bacterial matter to permeate our skin. Reapplying is fundamental during active days outdoors, but with our savvy ways, reapplying may be challenging. This is where PerfecTint Powder SPF 40 becomes a must-have product for EVERYONE! This product does not disrupt makeup and it hydrates the skin.
Finally, we can’t forget the lips! Lip products, including those with SPF are always in high demand. Many of us may be genetically prone to dry or cracked lips, or experience this particularly in the winter time. LiProtect SPF 35 is another easy portable product loved by men and women of all ages. This is a gloss- and shine-free balm that moisturised and heals delicate lip skin with the added value of SPF.
We encourage strong SPFs habits all winter long – this will make a valuable, healthy impact on the skin!
