Leigh-Ann Dolan, a 3000BC WellMed Spa medical esthetician, has shared with me her top three ingredients she says are imperative in any anti-aging skincare regimen. The first two were revealed in the previous posts, The Anti-Aging Trifecta and The Anti-Aging Three: Part #2. And now, as we get closer to beach season, the third seems all the more important…you guessed it- sunscreen!
I know, I know, everyone is telling you to wear it and odds are you are probably either turned off by it all or scared to look out a window without being covered head to toe.
But why would sunscreen be included in an anti-aging routine? It’s not a “power-house serum”, and it won’t instantly erase your wrinkles or fine lines. It does, however, help (in big ways!) to prevent them, and a slew of other visible signs of aging. Exposure to UVA and UVB rays accelerate collagen breakdown, create free radicals (see Part #2 of this series), and slows the skins’ natural ability to heal itself. About.com‘s post entitled Preventing Wrinkles with Sunscreen states,
‘Exposure to ultraviolet light, UVA or UVB, from sunlight accounts for 90% of the symptoms of premature skin aging including wrinkles.’
Ninety percent…that’s a big, scary number! But the point of this post- and I know is Leigh-Ann’s intention as well in sharing- is to educate, not send you off on a fear-induced sunscreen shopping splurge. So let’s make buying sunscreen a snap instead of a headache, shall we?
The Breakdown
Step 1: SPF
This is what blocks UVB radiaton, the rays that effect the outer layer of the skin. Be sure to select one that has an SPF of at least 15.
Step 2: UVA
These rays are what effect the layers underneath the surface of the skin and are known to be fast-acting. Check the ingredient list for one of these UVA-protecting options:
~avobenzone
~titanium dioxide
~zinc oxide
Step 3: Skin Type
As with any skincare product, you’ll want to make sure it’s right for your skin type, of course. If you have been turned off before by the effects of sunscreen on your skin, I strongly encourage you to give it another go…there are so many options available now! 3000BC offers 3 different sunscreens, each scientifically geared to protect your skin and address different ‘type’ concerns. Here’s a look at what we offer:
Physical Sun Shield: This oil and chemical free formula provides broad spectrum protection and a powerful blast of free radical quenching antioxidants. Designed for anti-aging, sensitive and rosacea skin types, this matte finish is perfect to apply under makeup.
Nourishing Sun Shield: Combat free radical damage with the ultimate in sun protection. This nourishing blend containing the highest level of broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection, is great for all skin types and perfect under makeup. Contains powerful active ingredients including parsol 1789 and micronized zinc oxide.
Active Sun Shield: The ultimate in sun protection. This nourishing, oil-free and fragrance-free blend minimizes UV free radical damage and is great for all skin types. This sheer protection from ultraviolet rays contains four powerful active ingredients for broad spectrum protection.
A special thank you to medical esthetician Leigh-Ann Dolan for her invaluable knowledge on anti-aging skincare. Call see Leigh-Ann for a skin analysis and treatment today!
3000BC WellMed Spa
215-247-6020
Keep an eye out for more info on sunscreen as summer approaches!
Best,
Korin.
