Black girl sunscreen leads the way for mature skin and helps women age gracefully. But what specifically is it doing to keep you looking fresh and supple?
That’s the topic of this post. We look at how sunscreen can transform your complexion and protect you against the sun’s harmful rays.
How Sunscreen Protects Aging Skin
Sunscreen protects people against aging by stopping ultraviolet (UV) light from contacting the skin (hence the name “sunblock”). Some products physically stop the light from getting through, while others use chemicals that absorb unwanted UV energy. However, both reduce DNA damage and skin cancer risk.
Key Features to Look For
Not all sunscreens are the same. Some are fantastic, while others are lackluster. Here’s what to look for:
Broad Spectrum Protection
Ensure the sunscreen offers both UVA and UVB protection. These are fancy names for different wavelengths of light but both can harm your skin. Some sunscreens only protect against UVB rays, meaning the sun could still damage your skin even if you slather it on thick.
SPF Rating
SPF rating also matters. Ideally, it should be 30 or more for comprehensive sun protection.
Ingredients
Check the formulation includes ingredients that will protect you. Mineral sunscreens should contain zinc or titanium dioxide while chemical sunscreens may have oxybenzone, avobenzone, or homosalate.
Additional Skincare Benefits
Finally, look for sunscreens with added moisturizers or concealers. These can help you feel your best when wearing them.
Types of Sunscreens
As discussed, there are various types of sunscreen.
Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreens
Mineral sunscreens work by blocking ultraviolet radiation, creating a physical barrier. By contrast, chemical sunscreens absorb the energy from ultraviolet radiation through chemical interactions. Furthermore, the best sunscreens combine both approaches.
Water-Resistant Formulas
There’s no such thing as waterproof sunscreen. However, water-resistant sunscreens do exist and won’t wash off as soon as you expose them to water.
Premium products contain beeswax – a natural compound. Cheaper options use mineral oil. Both have a similar effect, causing water to bead without dragging active ingredients with it.
Top Sunscreen Ingredients for Aging Skin
Here are the top ingredients for aging skin:
Zinc Oxide
Zinc oxide creates a layer on top of the dermis, preventing age-accelerating UV from penetrating. And because it doesn’t absorb, it’s ideal for sensitive skin.
Titanium Dioxide
Titanium dioxide also creates a layer on top of the skin with the same effect, preventing ultraviolet radiation from getting through.
Antioxidants
High-quality sunscreens may also contain vitamin C, vitamin C, and other antioxidants known to protect and enhance the skin. These can bolster your natural defenses.
Hyaluronic Acid
Formulations sometimes contain hyaluronic acid, a hydrating compound that keeps skin moist in dry heat.
Peptides
Finally, some sunscreens contain peptides. Some evidence suggests these help to maintain your skin barrier in high UV environments.
Common Myths About Sunscreen and Aging Skin
Unfortunately, myths about sunscreen and aging skin are everywhere. But, as with most falsehoods, they’re easy to debunk.
Sunscreen and Vitamin D Deficiency
For example, no clinical studies show that wearing sunscreen causes vitamin D deficiency. Moreover, other analyses show that those who do wear sunscreen can actually still keep their levels high (and avoid deficiency).
Sunscreen in Winter Months
Not needing to wear sunscreen in the winter months is another myth. That’s because UV rays still come through the atmosphere and hit the face, causing sun damage, even on cloudy days.
Summary of Key Points
In summary, sunscreen is an essential addition to an anti-aging skincare routine. It is the most effective defense against DNA damage leading to thinning, lines, wrinkles, hollows, age spots, hyperpigmentation, and other complaints.
