As summer comes to an end, it’s easy to think sunscreen season is over too. But it’s actually important to be applying regular sunscreen year round — even in Vancouver’s rainy months.
Harmful UV rays may be filtered by cloudy skies, but they aren’t blocked altogether. In fact, overcast days can be most dangerous, as we aren’t as likely to be thinking about the power of the sun when we’re not enjoying beautiful weather. Even on days that you aren’t leaving your house, UV rays can pass through your windows and impact your skin.
We recommend incorporating a sunscreen of at least SPF 30 into your daily morning routine, to ensure you are always sun safe, regardless of forecast or season. Apply it onto freshly washed skin, underneath any moisturizer or makeup, about thirty minutes before going outside. If you’re spending a significant amount of time outside, be sure to re-apply every two hours. Reapplication doesn’t have to disrupt your routine or make-up. Our team favourite is a brush-on mineral powdered sunscreen (SunForgettables by Colorescience) which makes reapplication on the go a breeze! Remember that tans and freckles are also signs of skin damage and can lead to unsightly wrinkles and sunspots over time.
An SPF 30 sunscreen will block about 97% of the sun’s rays. As your SPF (or sun protection factor) increases, the percentage of rays blocked will increase marginally, but no sunscreen is capable of blocking 100% of the sun’s rays.
Choose a sunscreen that offers broad spectrum protection to protect yourself from UVA and UVB rays, and opt for a waterproof option whether or not you’re heading to the beach, to ensure that sweat, rain and other skin care products don’t wash it away.
Dr. Humphrey recommends that patients "choose a sunscreen formulation that you love especially since you’re using it every day. I personally prefer a hydrating sunscreen, whereas someone with oily skin may prefer an oil free or powder formulation."
With so many brands on the market, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. Here are a few of our sunscreen favourites:
Sunscreen is a critical part of your preventative skin care routine, but it isn’t the only thing you can do to protect your skin long-term. Visit our in-clinic boutique, or book a one-on-one consultation to learn more about the combination treatments that will keep you looking youthful and vibrant over time.