The end of August, days like this are ahead of us, when we will see less and less sun or none at all. Some of us, as soon as the weather deteriorates, hide our sunscreen creams at the bottom of a drawer, which is unfortunately a skincare mistake. Research clearly shows that just because we can't see the sun, it doesn't mean that UV radiation doesn't reach us. Quite the contrary - UVA, penetrates through clouds and glass and, by penetrating deep into the skin, leads to skin damage. And so it can be a cooler autumn evening and still the UVA waves will be able to harm your skin.
There is, unfortunately, a persistent belief that sunscreen should only be applied during the holidays. Advertisements for products with SPF depict warm, exotic locations, while the truth is that skin should be protected whatever the weather or season. Lack of proper care, i.e. applying sunscreen all year round, leads to photo-ageing of the skin and increases the likelihood of cancer. We recommend sunscreens to our guests, as they are a must-have skincare item for those who care about looking beautiful and healthy. When choosing creams, lotions or other products, it is therefore important to pay attention to whether they offer UV protection.
Why is UVA radiation so harmful?
There are 95% of UVA radiation reaching the Earth. This is divided into UVA-1 (340-400 nm) and UVA-2 (320-340 nm). UVA-2 has a similar effect on the skin as UVB, but shows greater carcinogenicity. UVA-1 penetrates deeper into the skin, but is less harmful. Generally speaking, UVA emissions initiate the formation of a tan, but also penetrate the reticular and papillary layers of the dermis, causing more damage than UVB radiation. Therefore, UVA is said to be responsible for photo-ageing of the skin and also contributes to photoallergic reactions.
A delayed reaction involving nucleic acids and proteins occurs here. Bridging between protein molecules occurs, which leads to the phenomenon of collagen cross-linking and the reconfiguration of elastin molecules, leading to so-called solar elastosis [1].
The term 'photoageing' itself describes the many adverse changes in skin appearance, function and structure caused by excessive and prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation and artificial UV irradiation, such as in a tanning bed. As much as 50% of UVA rays reach the aforementioned papillary and reticular layers of the dermis, where they affect fibroblasts, dendritic cells, inflammatory infiltration cells, including T lymphocytes, granulocytes and mast cells, and vascular endothelial cells [2].
The changes induced by UVA exposure depend on the length and frequency of exposure. The main ones include dryness and roughness of the skin, the occurrence of precancerous lesions (solar keratosis), deep wrinkles, cracked capillaries, hyperpigmentation of varying intensity, reduced elasticity, skin flaccidity, and the formation of large blackheads [3,4].
So remember that the sun damages the skin all year round - even in winter. Even though during this period we think that it is not as intense and, above all, does not burn the skin, UVA radiation is still at the same level.
The approaching autumn and winter period is a time when we introduce substances such as retinol or acids, for which photoprotection is particularly important. We guarantee that using sunscreens 365 days a year will pay off in a few years. SPFs are products with which it takes time to notice changes. In the future, this will result in a lack of hyperpigmentation, a nicer skin tone and an overall better skin condition.
As I mentioned in a previous blog post, Quadrille Spa, in its range of light cream Caudalie with a very high SPF50+ protection, which effectively shields the face and neck from UVA/UVB rays while protecting even the most sensitive skin from oxidation. As professionals, we appreciated its very light, invisible texture and lack of fragrance. We recommend its daily use. We and the guests who have had the opportunity to use it feel that it is sensational and perfectly moisturising. It works well both solo and under make-up. It does not weigh down or roll with other products applied to the skin. Without make-up, its finish gives the skin a slight glow. And, most importantly, this cream spreads lightly, absorbs quickly, does not leave a sticky film on the skin, and does not whiten or pinch, even around the eyes.
Ewelina Araszkiewicz
Spa & Wellness Operation Manager
Bibliography:
1. Adamski Z., Kaszuba A., Dermatology for cosmetologists, Scientific Publishing House of the Karol Marcinkowski Medical University, Poznań 2008.
2. Adamski Z., Kaszuba A., Dermatology for cosmetologists, Elsevier Urban & Partner, Wrocław 2010. 3. Bender S., Pielęgnacja ciała, MedPharm, Poland 2009.
3 Rucińska A., Clinical and histological changes in the course of photoageing of the skin, Polish Journal of Cosmetology 2008.
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