WHY are estheticians CRAZY about SPF?!

It's no secret that estheticians (including myself) are fanatics about SPF; ingredients, frequency of use, different forms, proper application, and alllll the benifits. It is usually the most important product we make sure you have, and the one we keep on our person at all times. But why is this (sometimes controversial) tube of gold such a big deal? Sit tight my dears and I will break it down for you.

I dont know about you but when I step outside and feel those warm sun-shiney rays on my face I instantly feel better. Its as if mother nature is blessing me with a big 'ol hug and I am more than willing to reciprocate- with my SPF on, of course. Sun exposure on areas without SPF is important for Vitamin D production in moderation. We NEED the sun to function properly. No one understands that better than those of us living in the PNW. SAD is real and its paramount that we keep those Vit D stores producing. So why is it that we estis preach the importance of continued SPF use, even on days when it isnt sunny outside? Short answer.. it comes down to the ability of UVA and UVB rays to absorb directly into your face.

UVA and UVB have waive lengths that are shorter than visible light and therefore have a greater chance of causing us biological damage; ie damage to our skin cells. Most suncreens only protect against UVB rays so you have to be mindful of using a BROAD SPECTRUM SPF. Only then will you be protected against UVA rays. While UVB rays partially penetrate ozone and clouds they cant go through glass windows. UVB rays are responsible for tanning and burning. UVA rays on the other hand can penetrate ozone, clouds AND windows. THESE are the rays responsible for PREMATURE AGING!!

A great analogy I like to use involves house plants. We have a wall of windows at our house and half of it is obstructed by house plants. Scattered throughout the rest of the house are additional plants adorning shelves and tables. And you know what? They're all thriving. Ask yourslef what are the two main sources that feed houseplants.. water, and sun. If your monstera is inside your home growing and living its best life that means its getting properly cared for. And if its indoors soaking up sun to feed its stalk and leaves then you can count on your skin soaking up that same amount of sun- the same harmful UVA rays penetrating your windows.

Have you seen those pictures circulating the internet comparing twins in which one uses SPF on a consistent basis, and the other does not? Although they have the exact same DNA makeup, their skin appearance is completely different. Take a look below.. can you guess which twin is an active sunscreen user? I can almost gurantee the one on the left also uses a physical sunscreen, and im not talking about wearing a hat. Stay tuned for next weeks post where we go over the differences between physical and chemical suncreens and they matter!

Sunscreen vs. No Sunscreen