why we need SPF in our skincare routine

Apr 3

Last week, we talked about the benefits of antioxidants and how they protect our skin. Now, it’s time to talk about the most valuable product in any skincare lineup—SPF!

You may be rolling your eyes and thinking, “okay, okay we get it, sunscreen is important,” and we’re glad that you do! But, let’s take it a little deeper and talk about what sunscreen actually protects your skin (the largest organ in your body!) from.

Sunscreen shields the skin from ultraviolet (UV) exposure, which increases the risks of developing skin cancer, among other permanent skin-damaging conditions.

There are two types of UV rays:

UVA: penetrates deep into the skin (dermis), causing premature aging (wrinkles and fine lines) and damage to the collagen and elastin of the skin.
UVB: causes sunburn and superficial damage to the outer layer of skin (epidermis).

UVB rays are not as prominent in the winter, but UVA rays are present all year round.

UVA rays are strong enough to pass through thick clouds and even windows, so when it’s a rainy day and you’re sitting inside—you still need to wear your sunscreen!

If your skin is not protected from sun exposure, all the skincare products and treatments you’re investing in, are going to waste. Why? There is no magical serum that can protect your skin from wrinkles, fine lines, pigmentation and sagging if you’re skipping sunscreen.

Tip: To provide enough coverage for the full face and neck, use a nickel-sized blob (1/2 tsp) of sunscreen, and then REAPPLY, REAPPLY and REAPPLY again every 2 hours to ensure you’re fully protected, all day long.

Everyone, everywhere, every day should be applying a broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB protection) sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.

It can be tricky finding a sunscreen that feels good, blends into the skin well and doesn’t leave a white cast so when you find the one, don’t let it go!

Don’t know where to start? The Image Skincare Prevention+ line has sunscreen options for all skin types. Our favorite is the Oil-Free Daily Matte Moisturizer SPF 32+. It provides UVA/UVB protection, is rich in antioxidants, oil-free, formulated with zinc and doesn’t leave a white cast!