It’s common knowledge that sun exposure causes aging-related changes to the skin. However, what many people may not realize is that sun exposure accelerates the aging process and is actually responsible for up to 70% of skin aging. Sun exposure causes collagen to break down, resulting in thinner skin, fine lines and wrinkles, darkening pigmentation, larger pores, and a range of other skin problems.
Many people think the answer is simple: just wear sunscreen with a good SPF. But the reality is, not all sunscreens are made equally. Further, if you don’t use sunscreen correctly, which is a common problem, you won’t get the results you want. I share all the details on this in my video, and below on how to use sunscreen to help slow the aging process. If you’re younger, in your 20s and 30s, you can start now and be way ahead of the game.
Ready to take care of your skin at a new level and take control of the aging process? Read on to learn how to get right what most people get wrong!
1. USE THE RIGHT TYPE OF SUNSCREEN.
What is the right type of sunscreen? Look for a sunscreen that has an SPF of 30 and above. Your sunscreen should not just be a chemical block but a barrier block against the sun. Find a sunscreen that is mineral-based and broad-spectrum. This type of sunscreen has mineral ingredients such as zinc and titanium oxide at 6%-9% and above.
There are two types of radiation: UVA and UVB. UVA causes skin aging. UVB causes sunburn and skin cancer. A chemical sunscreen can’t block UVA radiation. You will want a sunscreen with both UVA and UVB.
2. WEAR SUNSCREEN INDOORS.
Wearing sunscreen outdoors is a no-brainer, but most people don’t think about how important it is to wear sunscreen when you’re inside. If you’re working near a window, your skin is being exposed to the sun, as UVA and UVB aren’t blocked by glass. In this case, you might as well be outside.
3. RE-APPLY FREQUENTLY.
Apply sunscreen several times a day, beginning after your morning skincare routine. 3-4 hours is the longest an application of sunscreen can last. This is something many people don’t know when they are using sunscreen. They apply sunscreen one time and don’t realize that after a few hours, they may as well have nothing on their skin to protect them.
4. DON’T ASSUME MAKEUP WITH SPF IS GOING TO ADEQUATELY PROTECT YOUR SKIN.
Despite what marketing messages might tell you, there is no makeup that has enough SPF to adequately protect your skin. Makeup with SPF can be thought of as a secondary level of protection. But don’t think of it as full protection. Instead, consider a powder-based, tinted sunscreen that can work as a foundation under your makeup.
5. APPLY THE RIGHT AMOUNT.
Use more than you think you need–you want enough to fully cover your face and neck. Consider what you need to cover the entire face, neck, chest area, and the back of your hands. This is usually more than people think.
Double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Amir Karam
Amir Karam MD
Dr. Amir Karam is a world renowned facial cosmetic surgeon and an authority in his field, with over two decades of experience helping patients achieve a younger, refreshed appearance. His dedication to helping people extends beyond his surgical procedures and into the world of skincare. With Dr. Karam's guidance and products, patients and customers can experience a truly transformative skincare journey, and feel confident, beautiful, and empowered in their own skin.
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