Apply SPF Every Day
You've probably heard time and time again that you should always wear sunscreen—and it's true! SPF is essential every single day, not just when the sun is at its worst in the summer. "Do not get lazy about SPF," Au urges. While Dr. Harth agrees, "Applying sunscreen is a must for anyone, including people with acne and oily skin."
Although some skincare and beauty products have a little bit of SPF already built in, it won't be enough to prevent advanced aging from sun damage. "Many of my patients do not use sunscreen daily and for those that do, some think that just because there is sunscreen built in, their foundations would suffice. It is not enough; you will always need a good physical sunscreen every morning to end your morning routine," she notes.
Au says a lack of adequate UV protection could worsen signs of aging if you don't apply SPF everyday. "If you care about anti-aging, know that the UV rays (even when it is raining) will accelerate the aging process, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation," she warns.
Dr. Harth also adds that by skipping out on SPF, your skin could also suffer from clogged pores. "The UV light emitted from the sun causes the epidermis to be thicker and increases the risk of clogged pores," he explains. "The UV rays also cause the post-acne dark spots to be darker and, of course, cause premature skin aging." In fact, there is another popular skincare ingredient that can clog pores and cause breakouts!
How To Pick The Right Sunscreen
So, applying sunscreen is important for preventing wrinkles, but how do you pick the right SPF for your skin? Dr. Harth points out that using the wrong kind of sunscreen can actually worsen inflammation and acne in the summertime. "The wrong sunscreen can clog your pores and cause more acne breakouts," he says. That's why it's so important to pick the right type of sunscreen for your face.
"People with acne or acne-prone skin should use only sunscreens that are clearly labeled oil-free," Dr. Harth suggests. He also recommends avoiding sunscreens with zinc oxide and titanium oxide bases. "These sunscreens are thicker, leave a white cast on the skin, and tend to clog pores." Dr. Harth says you should instead opt for "invisible" chemical sunscreens. Additionally, he notes that people with acne-prone skin should choose water-resistant sunscreen, since "it will not get diluted by sweat and will stay longer on the skin."
At the end of the day, sunscreen can keep your skin protected. When you skip this crucial part of your skincare routine, not only do you put yourself at risk of wrinkles, sagging skin, and dark spots, but you also put your health on the line. "Skin cancer is the most common and potentially fatal cancer in the US. Why risk health?" Au emphasizes.
On a final note, when applying SPF, make sure you're being generous about the areas you're applying your sunscreen as well. First start on your face, and ears, bringing it down your neck, and then onto your chest and hands. These are areas that are often heavily exposed to the sun and may reveal your age.
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