Keeping Sensitive Skin Protected From the Sun

When summer has finally arrived, or the sun is cheerfully shining down making it feel like it has, it can be a very exciting time for everyone. After all, with warm weather comes fun activities such as lounging by the pool, splashing around at the beach, going on nature hikes and other outdoor events.

If overcast days are more your speed, it may be surprising to know that harmful UV rays can still penetrate through the clouds, and in some cases, even become magnified by them. If you have especially sensitive skin, going outside and enjoying the fresh air may seem easier said than done.

For people with sensitive skin, the potential risks that come with the extra rays, range from mild, such as gradual premature skin aging, to outright painful, such as sunburns. Thankfully, with the proper sun care routine, even those with the most delicate skin can feel more confident enjoying activities that are held out in the open.

Skin Needing Extra TLC

If you haven’t already had the displeasure of dealing with the aftereffects of excessive sun exposure, then it’s important to understand some factors that might make you more sensitive to the extra rays. Having sensitive skin means that you can burn more easily, intensely and have a more difficult time recovering from sun damage.

People with certain characteristics typically need to be more vigilant about protecting their skin on extra sunny days. You will likely need to be more proactive if you

• Require medication that makes you more sensitive to UV rays
• Are undergoing skin treatments
• Have a history of sun allergies
• Have skin that is prone to acne and other types of breakouts
• Have atopic skin
• Have pale skin that lacks melanin
• Are much older or younger in age

Sunscreen

When it comes to protecting sensitive from the harmful effects of the sun, people of different skin types include sunscreen in their daily skincare routines. Sunscreens come in many different forms with varying degrees of protection which can come in handy for getting the perfect match for your skin type and activity level.

Sunscreens can come as stand-alone products or built into other products that are used every day. For example, Glo Skin Beauty Oil Free SPF 40+ Sunscreen is a light, non-greasy formula that can be simply smoothed on by itself or worn under other products. Since it does not contain heavy fillers, it can work great with sensitive skin.

You can also have sun care built into other products as well. For example, Colorescience Sunforgettable Brush On Sunscreen SPF 30 is a loose, mineral-based powder that provides sun protection while its pigment gently diffuses uneven skin tones.

Beauty Products

If you happen to love beauty products, you might be excited to know that many of your favorites may already have SPF. Contrary to popular belief, it’s not just foundation either. Some lipsticks, shampoos and even mascara are known to have sun-protecting properties in their formulation.

For makeup lovers with sensitive skin who are looking for even more sun protection, Colorescience Sunforgettable Brush On Sunscreen SPF 50 is a great choice. Its higher SPF means that it can block a higher percentage of UVB rays which is perfect for people with skin more prone to sun damage.

Aftercare

The truth of the matter is that sometimes life happens, and you may not have been prepared for the weather or to have been outdoors longer than expected. Even worse, you may have accidentally skipped your sun care routine altogether.

Red, peeling, or worse, burnt skin, are good indicators that you need to step up your sun protection. While dermatologists the world over will likely advise you from allowing your skin to even get to this point, there are many strategies and products that can help speed up the healing process.

While proper hydration, staying indoors and wearing breathable, protective clothing will help the recovery process, products containing aloe, soy and coconut oil can be very soothing to damaged skin.

Other Side Effects

Protecting yourself from the sun isn’t all about vanity and aesthetics either. Other than damaged skin, there are many known harmful effects of excessive sun exposure. It’s important to remember that being outdoors unprotected can also lead to heat exhaustion, dehydration and even skin cancer.

Proper Planning

Despite the cautionary tales of extreme cases, there are many benefits of being outdoors that can’t be denied. The following are just some of them that barely scratch the surface:

• Can be a refreshing break from being stuck indoors
• Provides much-needed doses of Vitamin D
• Can help lessen the effects of Seasonal Affective Disorder
• Provides fresh air and scents of the outdoors
• Is a natural energy booster

Having sensitive skin doesn’t have to stop you from enjoying them, too. Wear practical, protective clothing such as hats and long-sleeved shirts, stay hydrated and keep your favorite sun-friendly products from LaLa Daisy in stock so you can enjoy a few extra rays with a clear conscience.