Most people are confused about the correct use and effectiveness of various sunscreens and the application of these products according to the type of sunscreen used. DermaFix Cosmeceutical Skin Care sheds light on the regulations around Sun Protection with some sun care facts regarding application and protection of your skin;
1. The law changed in January 2014 with regards to the sunscreens and their descriptive terms used in advertising. Many brands make use of bold and misleading claims, such as ‘Broad Spectrum’ and ‘Sun Block’, these claims have been ruled out of all advertising by the CTFA. The change was to prevent the confusion amongst consumers that sun protections products claiming this would give a false sense of security with regards to the sunscreens ability to protect the skin entirely from both UVA and UVB exposure. More acceptable terms were to be used in advertising going forward such as, ‘High Protection’. New regulations are slowly being implemented but advertising terms are not compliant with the SANS 1557:2013, the gazetted law.
2. Dermatologists confirm that skin cancer in various forms, including non-melanoma and melanoma skin cancers, are associated with exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Studies have found that individuals prone to freckles and moles have a higher risk of developing skin cancer, while darker skin types must be aware as cancer is often not detected until later stages when it is more dangerous.
3. Some diseases and medications, including antihistamines and certain herbal remedies, can cause extra sensitivity to the sun’s rays.
4. Chemical-based sun protection ingredient work to absorb UVA/UVB radiation, however, they may cause skin and health related reactions which should be considered. Physical Ingredient compounds such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide work to reflect, scatter, and absorb UVA/UVB rays and do not typically cause allergic reactions. Patch testing should be encouraged for the allergy prone. All sunscreen ingredients are “actives” therefore informed choices must be made and carefully considered especially when applying to children who may be sensitive to chemicals used in sunscreens.
5. Sunscreen Sprays – The use of Sunscreen sprays should be limited as they are often not applied correctly. The mist flies everywhere except onto the area where it is intended for use. There is very little coverage in order to protect the exposed skin adequately. Face and ears are mostly missed out entirely and these areas are typically dangerous for UVA/UVB damage. Mothers often apply these sunscreen sprays in open air restaurants or under umbrellas before the children race off. This exposes the allergy-prone client to sunscreen as inhalation of fumes cannot be avoided.
6. Any sun exposed areas of the body must be covered with a High Protection UVA/UVB sunscreen. Sunscreens must be applied 30 minutes before sun exposure and reapplied liberally every 2-3 hours. Reapplication of sunscreen should always take place after swimming, sweating or rubbing the skin with towels. Make use of full protective clothing including wide-brimmed hats and umbrellas between 10am to 4pm in summertime. Children spending time outdoors, playing sports, swimming, or even hiking should be taught how to use sunscreen correctly to maximise protection against possible skin cancer.
The safe use of Vitamin D can be prescribed by your doctor for the prevention of free radical attack and the improvement of the skin’s immunity, preventing premature ageing.
The inclusion of DermaFix Ferulic + C + E can be incorporated into your daily routine, prior to the application of DermaFix DermaShield SPF40/50 High Protection sunscreen for cellular protection against environmental damage. DermaFix Ferulic + C + E offers up to 72 hours of anti-oxidant protection, this scientific formulation provides the skin with a high dose of Vitamin C, long reputed as being a superior anti-oxidant, helping to prevent UV-induced hyperpigmentation, bringing with it skin lightening benefits. It provides a potent barrier against the damaging effects of UV-radiation.
For more information on the DermaFix Cosmeceutical Skin Care Sun Protection Products, or additional sun care facts, contact us directly on 0861 28 23 23 or visit our website www.dermafix.co.za.