A radiant complexion remains sought after year-round, something the summer months can help with. Post-summer, Dr. Richards often witnesses an increase in patients grappling with recurring acne and visible damage from sun-exposed skin losing its tan. Yet, this season presents an optimal opportunity to invigorate and reassess your skincare routine. Here on the Sunshine Coast we are provided with an abundant amount of beautiful sand and sea all year round, with this does come a high dose of harsh UV rays, but no matter where you live or where you travel, Dr. Richards advises everyone to re-evaluate their skin care and protection regime on a regular basis.
Key priorities like hydration and sun protection take center stage. Adjusting your skincare regimen with the changing seasons becomes pivotal for revitalising your skin and achieving that coveted summer glow. Summer doesn't just impact your skin via weather; factors like travel and dietary changes also play a significant role. Additionally, older products lose efficacy, especially if left open and unused for extended periods. Initiating these adjustments promptly can swiftly restore your skin's vibrance and boost your confidence.
Improve Your Awareness:
Introduced in the early 1990s by Canadian researchers, the UV index scale serves as a valuable tool for the public in managing exposure to UV radiation. This scale ranges from 0 to 11, with higher values indicating increased risks of skin and eye damage at a faster rate. During extreme UV conditions, it's prudent to minimize outdoor activities and remain indoors between 10 AM and 4 PM for optimal protection. When outdoors during high UV index hours, wearing protective clothing such as long sleeves, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses is highly advisable.
Accessible through platforms like Google or weather apps on smartphones, determining the UV index for your location on any given day allows for informed decision-making regarding sun exposure. These guidelines aim to ensure safe and responsible practices when outdoors.
The Bad Light:
The dangers of UV radiation, a known carcinogen, are widely acknowledged. Increasingly, people realise the importance of daily UV protection, considering these rays' year-round presence, especially here in Queensland. However, it's important to note that the damaging effects of light aren't just limited to direct sun exposure. Even indoor light and routine activities like driving have their implications.
Ultraviolet radiation comprises various rays, primarily UVA and UVB, capable of detrimental effects on the skin. UVA rays, penetrating deep into the skin, significantly contribute to premature aging, accounting for up to 90% of visible aging signs linked to sun exposure. Meanwhile, UVB rays, affecting the skin's surface, primarily cause sunburn.
While sunlight offers potential benefits for conditions like psoriasis and acne, it's a double-edged sword. Its intensity in summer exacerbates skin aging, pigmentation issues, and worsens conditions like rosacea and eczema. Moreover, sunlight and certain sunscreen components may trigger allergies or reactions in susceptible individuals.
The Good Light: LED Light Therapy
On the flip side, lights on the opposite end of the spectrum can be beneficial for the skin when administered by a doctor with medical-grade equipment. This serves true for photodynamic therapy for superficial skin cancer treatment and LED light therapy for healing, increasing collagen, improving skin hydration, treating acne and eczema, reducing skin redness and improving symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
Here at Aesthetic Astute, Dr, Danielle uses the MediLUX LED device which offers the ability to tailor light therapy to treat your individual skin concerns. This is a medical-grade LED device which requires a free no-obligation medical consultation with Dr. Danielle prior to using to ensure safety and suitability as well as treatment optimisation.
Book Your Consultation Today. LED therapy can often be offered on the same day.
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