Blog
Stormvoe - Favourite Cleansers For Different Needs
Aug 19, 2019Stormvoe wrote a blog post about their 'Favourite Cleansers For Different Needs'.
"I have been testing a few products from Ark, a British, cruelty-free skincare brand including this Conditioning Cleanser* from the Age Defend range specifically created for 30 plus skin types. Being in my thirties I started paying more attention on what I put on my skin and over the years I have found a handful of products that deliver. I’m always on a hunt for something affordable with good ingredients to make a difference to my skin. Not only does this cleanser remove impurities but it also cares for your skin. It includes Morninga oil, which contains Vitamin A and C. All of these prevent your skin from losing its moisture while making sure it’s clean. What’s more, Kiwi and Passion Fruit oils combined with Omega 3 fatty acids boost hydration levels and Blue Lotus extract improves skin elasticity and firmness."
"If you’re after something that is designed purely for removing make up this Pre Cleanse and Make-Up Remover* from Ark could be for you. It’s a definite step up from your regular micellar water type of product. Infused with a combination of fruit oils (kiwi, grape seed, avocado), Omega 3, 6 and 9, it dissolves dirt and make up thoroughly while being gentle and soothing on the skin at the same time."
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Read the full blog post HERE
Shop our Cleansers HERE
Beauty | Let's take it off, Let's Talk Cleansers - The Naughty Forty Diaries
Aug 06, 2019Tracey from 'The Naughty Forty Diaries' wrote a blog post all about her favourite cleansers. "I thought I’d share 3 cleansers with you that I have received over the past month or so. Cleansers I am really enjoying using . I will probably purchase them all for myself after they have ran out." She featured our Age Defend Conditioning Cleanser.
"This cleanser is great for my second cleanse. It has been formulated especially for men and woman in their 30’s and 40’s .
The pump dispenser hygienically disperses just the right amount of clear gel cleanser that has a pleasant but not overpowering scent.
I apply a couple of pumps directly onto my BeGlow TIA before massaging around my face for a further few minutes.
It is a targeted cleanser with hydrating Moringa Oil to remove impurities, gently exfoliate and boost elasticity.
Kiwi, passion fruit lipids, Vitamin A and high levels of Omega 3 and Omega 6 to assist skins fitness and defend against moisture loss.
It leaves my skin feeling comfortable and clean without any dryness. Lines and wrinkles appear softer. It’s just a really lovely cleanser."
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Shop the Age Defend Cleanser HERE
Read the full Blog Post HERE
Radiance Serum - as seen in The Hills being used by Stephanie Pratt
Aug 02, 2019Stephanie Pratt was seen in 'The Hills: New Beginnings' using ARK Skincare's Radiance Serum to get ready for a night out in Vegas, July 2019.
The Radiance Serum is one for glow-seekers like Stephanie Pratt. Our Radiance Serum will brighten, soothe, hydrate and illuminate skin for a radiant dewy look in an instant. Helps reduce the appearance of hyper pigmentation. Stephanie Pratt adds a few drops to her foundation for that extra glow.
Shop our Radiance Serum HERE now
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We have joined The Mustcard! - Love Local Living
Jul 23, 2019The Mustcard gives you instant access to exclusive offers and discounts within local independent businesses. There's everything from children's activities to architects, exercise classes to dog walkers and an abundance of the very best shops, cafes and restaurants in and around Surrey, West Sussex and Hampshire.
Join The Mustcard today at www.themustcard.com. for £19.99 per year or trial our membership for 30 days for absolutely nothing. You’ll get an instant confirmation email with details of your virtual membership and login details to access your online account so that you can make the most of The Mustard straight away. Whatever membership you opted for we’ll get your personalised card to you within 14 days. However, in most cases we aim for it to be with you in just a few days.
Show your card or use your unique discount code whenever you buy from one of the independents to save money and feel good about supporting your local community. ARK are offering 20% off all full price items! Find us under the beauty and wellness section of the website HERE.
Lippy in London - Age Defend Cleanser & Moisturiser Review
Jul 19, 2019'Lippy in London' tried out our Age Defend Cleanser & Moisturiser and here is what she thought!
"I had wanted to try ARK Skincare for quite a while so I'm really happy I've had the opportunity to try a couple of products over the past few weeks. Cruelty Free, vegan-friendly and utterly joyful to use, these two have been a welcome addition to my skincare stash but before I get into the details, here's a little bit about ARK."
"The cleanser and moisturiser both contain Kiwi and Passion Fruit lipids which are rich in Omega 3 and help to retain moisture levels in the skin. Blue Lotus also features in both products. Touted as the 'sacred flower of anti-ageing', Blue Lotus is an effective antioxidant which helps to maintain firmness and elasticity."
"The award-winning Conditioning Cleanser is designed to cleanse, nourish and aid the skin's natural exfoliation process via a soothing gel formula. The cleanser contains Moringa Oil which is naturally rich in Vitamin C and A to help create a radiant, glowing complexion as it cleanses away makeup and dirt. 'Conditioning Cleanser' is a spot-on name for this formula as it's very comfortable to use - skin feels nice and clean but not tight or stripped. The Conditioning Cleanser also rinses away easily (this isn't necessarily a washcloth job) and is just really pleasant to use overall. It's worth mentioning that it also smells incredible - sort of herbal and both invigorating and relaxing at the same time. I realise that makes very little sense but you're just going to have to trust me on this."
"First and foremost, I really, really rate this moisturiser. From the packaging through to the finish of the formula, I'm very impressed! A cream formula with a slight gel consistency, the moisturiser has a Shea Butter and Olive Oil base enriched with Co-enzyme Q10 and skin plumping peptides including Matrixyl. Along with the aforementioned Kiwi and Passion Fruit lipids and Blue Lotus, the Replenishing Moisturiser also contains Retinal Parmitate which is gentle enough for sensitive skin and works to increase collagen production and help to keep skin plump and resilient. Like the Age Defend cleanser, this moisturiser smells pretty amazing, which is always a bonus when it's going on your face."
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Read the full blog post HERE
Shop our Age Defend range HERE
Boy Does Beauty - Our Skincare is for males too!
Jul 19, 2019
All of our products are Unisex! Boy Does Beauty tried out our Vitality Hand & Body Wash and our Age Defend Conditioning Cleanser and here is what he thought; 'The body wash...is great for sensitive skin and especially people with eczema prone skin like mine! It contains vitamin B5 and aimino acids. This product for me is divine!!!...The scent is 100% natural and makes me want to stay in the shower all morning.'
'The conditioning cleanser is next on my list, this for me is beautiful! I was sold by reading the ingredients! It contains moringa oil which is rich in Vitamin A and C and gently removes make-up and grime while ensuring skin retains essential moisture. Also soothes redness and inflammation!'
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Follow @boydoesbeauty on Instagram
Shop our Age Defend Cleanser HERE and our Vitality Hand & Body Wash HERE
Back to you Beauty's list of 'perfect cleansers on all budgets' - ARK Skincare Age Defend Conditioning Cleanser
Jul 17, 2019'Back to you Beauty' did a blog post in her mature skin series; 'The perfect cleansers on all budgets' and featured our Age Defend Conditioning Cleanser. Her blog post is a concise list of new cleansers that a perfect for all skin types, but especially for mature skin. Her advice is that if you are not cleansing your skin properly, no other products will work efficiently!
"ARK Skincare is a recent find of mine and one i am enjoying exploring more. This award winning, cruelty free brand is making waves in the beauty industry with their Bioactive Natural Ingredients, their ethos and the belief that you can have beautiful looking skin at every age...With a Spa like qualty to all their products they really make for a luxurious, daily pleasure that ensures peace of mind and balance to the skin."
"Age Defend Conditioning Cleanser contains Moringa Oil which is rich in Vitamin A and C and gently removes make-up and grime whilst ensuring skin retains essential moisture. With Kiwi and Passion Fruit lipids which are packed with Omega 3 fatty acids to boost skin’s moisture levels. Blue Lotus, the ‘sacred flower of anti-ageing’ is a powerful antioxidant which helps skin firmness and elasticity. This is a beautiful cleanser. It removes make up and excess sebum, making it a lovely first cleanse, plus helps with any sensitivity or redness in the skin. The gel texture melts quickly into the skin making it easy to work in."
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Read the full blog post HERE
Shop our Age Defend Conditioning Cleanser HERE
"It's silky heaven" read why Susie Amy will always double cleanse.
May 07, 2019Clean skin is vital - and I mean clean skin. There is little point in applying expensive serums and moisturisers to skin that isn’t clean- they just won’t sink in. Instead they sit on top of a layer of grime, sebum, pollution and dead skin cells.
Make up wipes are a huge sin - firstly they are appalling for the environment - and secondly they do not leave the skin clean. They push dirt and make up around the face. If everyone could see their skin under a microscope after using a wipe they wouldn’t be so appealing.
The solution - double cleanse. First with an oil cleanser then with your age intelligent cleanser.
Read moreSusie Amy - 'My Pregnancy And Baby Favourites'
Mar 01, 2019Our brand ambassador Susie Amy wrote a blog post all about pregnancy and her baby favourites. She talks through a few products which she loved while being pregnant and having her beautiful daughter Noa, from Muslins to beauty products!
One of the products she has been loving is our Conditioning Body Serum; "I used this daily throughout my pregnancy. I had the first bottle from the production line with me in Ibiza at ‘The Bodycamp’ where I found out I was pregnant – so literally from the day I knew I was using this serum. I have to say I have been exceptionally lucky with my skin, and managed to escape stretch mark free (I do appreciate there are contributing factors to this – an interesting fact is that younger skin can actually be more prone to them) but I was religious with this delicious serum. It’s vegan friendly – as is the whole range, and is packed with 100% natural oils rich Omegas 3, 6, & 9."
Shop our Conditioning Body Serum HERE
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Read the full blog post HERE
Can super foods help your skin?
Feb 28, 2019
ARK Skincare products are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and lipids, many of which are sourced from nutrient rich foods known as superfoods.
Superfoods have a very high density of nutrients which makes them particularly good at ensuring our health and wellbeing. But which super foods are used in skincare, and how are they beneficial to our skin?
Superfoods have a very high density of nutrients which makes them particularly good at ensuring our health and wellbeing. But which super foods are used in skincare, and how are they beneficial to our skin?
The Age Protect range (for teens and 20s) is high in lipids sourced from Avocado and Peach, antioxidants sourced from White Tea, and Vitamin E. Avocado and Peach provide softening benefits with a light non greasy feel suited to younger skin. White Tea has anti microbial and anti inflammatory properties to clam as well as balancing sebum levels.
The Age Defend range (for those in their 30s and 40s) is high in levels of Omegas from Kiwi and Passion fruit lipids; rich in antioxidants from Blue Lotus; and high in a gentle form of Vitamin A, as well as containing Prickly Pear. Kiwi lipids contain high levels of Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, the most important building blocks of skin cells.They decrease inflammation, reduce redness, and prevent dehydration. Prickly Pear derived from the Nopal plant, is a potent ingredient which brightens skin, and increases collagen production.
The Age Defy range for those aged 50 onwards contains lipids from Blackcurrant and Starflower; antioxidants from Gojiberry; Red Algae, and Vitamin C. Blackcurrant and Starflower contain intensive levels of Omegas 3 and 6. Gojiberry is one of the richest antioxidant herbs and is moisturising, vitalising and soothing. Red Algae contains Zylose and Galactose which give the skin a luminous glow and reduce pigmentation or brown spots.
Discover more about the bioactive ingredients sourced from super foods and herbs by visiting our product pages.
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Click HERE to shop now
Our Terracycle Zero Waste Beauty Boxes
Nov 13, 2018Recycling your packing at our Haslemere Boutique
Here at ARK Skincare we are passionate about doing our bit to help the environment and take more steps towards sustainability. Whilst we know we’re still far from perfect, we have made lots of positive changes this year and are committed to doing more.
One of the positive steps we have made is finding a recycling solution for containers which can't be recycled in council collections. Simply bring back your empty beauty containers to our boutique where we now have a zero waste box they can go into and we'll take care of the rest...
The empty packaging will then be sent to Terracycle for recycling. So instead of being landfilled or incinerated, the plastics will be sorted and turned into raw materials that can be reused. Plus, we'll give you 10% off next time you shop!
Who are Terracycle?
Terracycle are a recycling company who recycle typically hard-to-recycle materials and break them down into pellets to make furniture and other consumer goods - rather than letting them head to landfill.
What can go into the Terracycle box?
ARK Skincare will take back any used beauty containers that can’t be taken by council collections, and pass these on to Terracycle. They do not have to be ARK Skincare products – they can be from any brand.
The following items are accepted:
- Tubes
- Airless pump packs (ARK Skincare SPF bottles, lip cream bottles, moisturiser jars)
- Pumps, Caps or pipettes
- Shampoo bottles and caps
- Conditioner bottles and caps
- Hair Gel tubes and caps
- Non pressurised hair spray bottles
- Lip Gloss and Lip Balm tubes
- Soap dispensers and tubes
- Lotion Bottles and tubes
- Mascara tubes, concealer tubes, eye shadow tubs
All packing must be cleaned before it is added to the box.
Please note the following items are NOT accepted:
- Nail polish bottles and nail polish remover bottles
- Plant-based or biodegradable plastics (ie PLA), wood or bamboo products
- Sheet masks for face, hands and feet
- Hazardous waste (sharp, flammable, reactive, corrosive, ignitable, toxic, infectious, or pathogenic) which presents a danger to the environment, or to people
- Batteries, pressurised canisters, glass and medical waste
If you would like to send your containers back to us, please email office@arkskincare.com for more details. We are really pleased to be making this positive change and look forward to receiving your empties. Every little helps!
To learn more about Terracycle click HERERead what Susie Amy has to say HERE
When did you last wash your makeup brushes?
Oct 25, 2018
When did you last wash your makeup brushes?
Dirty make up brushes can be responsible for the transfer of bacteria, viruses and fungi and can cause cold sores, acne flare ups, conjunctivitis or worse. One woman even contracted MRSA from sharing her friend's make up brush, which is pretty alarming. Read more here.
There have been a number of studies into how much bacteria can live on make up and make up brushes, and one test of 35 brushes showed 58% had high recorded levels of bacteria with 34% of them having dangerously high levels of bacteria on them. Alarmingly it was found that 44% of 1000 people surveyed said that they have never cleaned their brushes!
Applying make up with dirty hands or brushes can allow the bacteria, viruses or fungi present to enter any broken skin causing skin irritations and infections. If you suffer with sensitivities, congested skin or acne you may want to reevaluate how hygienic your make up and make up brushes are. It could be one reason for your skin concerns. Go and clean those brushes now!
Did you know?
Bacteria lives on our hands all the time. Many are totally harmless but some can be pathogens. Pathogens are bacteria or viruses which cause infection.
Bacteria lives on our hands all the time. Many are totally harmless but some can be pathogens. Pathogens are bacteria or viruses which cause infection.
To ensure you do not transfer harmful bacteria into your skincare products use brands which have contamination free jars. That is, containers which you do not put your fingers in. If your skincare comes in an open pot or jar, make sure you use a spatula to access the cream or lotion. Putting your fingers into a jar, however clean you think they are, will transfer bacteria and allow them to multiply in the formulation.
All ARK Skincare products are housed in contamination free packaging. You can not put your fingers into any of our formulations to keep them hygienic. For example our moisturisers cleverly dispense from an airless jar via a push down pump.
Learn more about our award winning products on our website, at one of our partner salons or by giving our friendly customer service team a call on 0203 740 3303
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Eye Care: Preventing Dark Circles & Puffiness
Sept 26, 2018Eye Care: Preventing Dark Circles & Puffiness
Eyes seemingly have it all when it comes to first impressions. Eyes can often be the first thing people notice about us. Sparkling, awake looking eyes are considered healthy, engaging and attractive. They also have the ability to communicate more than we would ever say, and give instant information on how we are feeling. Are you looking after yours?
Having someone comment that "you look tired" is never something we want to hear. Even if we are feeling fantastic, the appearance of our eyes may let us down. Dark circles, puffiness, and heavy eye lids all make us appear more tired than we are. But these may be caused by number of factors, and not just fatigue.
What causes dark circles?
Age - As we get older skin becomes thinner and blood vessels under the surface of the skin can become visible, appearing as dark shadows.
Allergies - allergic reactions release histamines which dilate blood vessels making them visible. Allergies can also make eyes dry and itchy increasing the likelihood of rubbing your eyes which can damage the delicate blood vessels and create dark circles.
Genetics - some families are simply more prone to dark circles, as it can be an inherited trait.
Dehydration - a lack of fluids can cause eyes to become sunken looking, and shadows to be cast.
Fatigue - the well known cause of dark circles, a lack of sleep makes skin more pale than usual, allowing dark tissue and blood vessels to show.
What causes puffiness and heavy eye lids?
Age - as we age the muscles supporting the eye area weaken and fat in surrounding tissue may migrate.
Fatigue - once again a prime cause, eyes may appear more puffy and eye lids heavy when lacking in sleep or when waking up first thing.
Smoking - eyes can become more swollen and fluid retained as a result of smoking
Salty foods - salty foods can result in fluid retention and an increase in bags under the eyes.
Can eye creams really help?
Being well rested, avoiding smoking and reducing salt intake can all help with the appearance of our eyes. However sometimes we need a little extra help. Using a cool compress can reduce puffiness and swelling, and restrict blood flow to small capillaries, and so reduce dark circles. But can any eye creams actually help too? Or can we just use our usual facial moisturiser?
Eye creams contain more oil than a regular facial creams and have a lot of active ingredients that help the dryness of your skin. They also contain carefully chosen ingredients to insure they do not irritate the delicate eye area. In addition active ingredients are often included to specifically neutralise dark circles that can show age and fatigue.
What makes the ARK Skincare eye cream so effective?
Beautifye - an extract from The Persian Silk Tree - has been shown to strengthen skin and lift the fold of the eye lid, preventing heavy looking eyes. It also contracts blood vessels to fade dark circles and reduce puffiness.
Amino Acids - a blend of amino acids to offer optimal hydration for the delicate eye area. These amino acids are naturally present in human skin, this offers a boost to the usual moisture level.
Grape Seed Oil - rich in fatty acid Linoleic Acid which has the ability to plump and hydrate as well as leaving a silky feel to the skin.
Aloe Vera - well known ingredient used to soothe and hydrate.
Allantoin - used for centuries to promote healing, it can repair and protect delicate and sensitive skin.
The packaging - the cream is housed in a contamination free, airless pack, with an innovative static roller ball for use during application. The metallic ball allows hygienic massaging of the delicate eye area, and provides a cooling, soothing effect to calm, cool and reduce any swelling.
Bioactive content - The formulation is 96% naturally derived and free from all known irritants.
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References:
https://www.saga.co.uk/
Have you lost your usual glow? Is your skin looking tired?
Jul 19, 2018There may be a variety of reasons why your skin has lost its usual healthy glow.
Ask yourself the following questions:
Ask yourself the following questions:
Are you dehydrated? Drinking water is essential to happy healthy skin. We know we should drink two litres a day and that it will benefit our overall health in a number of ways, but in the course of a busy day it can sometimes be hard to achieve. How to fix it: Carry a water bottle with you at all times and take regular sips - you will feel and see the benefit. In addition make sure you do not use cleansers which strip out moisture from the skin but instead look to cleansers which balance and hydrate. Plus use hydrating treatment products such as a serum or a hydration masque.
Do you live in a polluted area? If you live in an urban area your skin will be exposed to pollutants which may cause daily damage. How to fix it: Ensure you use antioxidant rich skincare products to combat the damaging effects of free radicals. Look for products which specifically mention anti pollution systems and incorporate a protective serum or finishing product into your regime. BUT most importantly, remember to remove all daily grime at the end of the day. Follow a double cleanse routine to leave your skin free of all make up, dirt and daily pollution.
Do you exfoliate? When old skin cells build up on the surface of the skin it can look dull and tired and can become congested. How to fix it: Exfoliate regularly to remove dead cells and encourage new cells to the top. Your skin will be left looking fresh and healthy. Make sure you use products as directed and do not over stimulate sensitive skins. Look for innovative exfoliators with a triple action effect incorporating physical, enzymatic and fruit acid exfoliants.
Have you slept? Sleep deprivation can result in reduced circulation and raised stress hormones both of which make skin appear dull. How to fix it: Obviously it is important to make sure you get enough rest to see your skin's healthy glow restored. However, if your lifestyle means this is temporarily impossible, give yourself a boost with an eye cream to lift and open your eyes and make you feel wide awake even if you are not! Plus use a serum to combat the effects of lifestyle stress. You may also wish to add an instant glow.
Has your skin changed with age? As we age our hormone balance changes causing skin to appear dull and also causing areas of hyper pigmentation. How to fix it: Use skincare specific to the age you are look for ingredients with skin brightening properties to help address hyperpigmentation marks and always protect against damaging UV rays.
To find out more about pigmentation & dull skin, click here.
Want an immediate quick fix? Try ARK Skincare Radiance Serum - the one for glow seekers. Gives and instant healthy look to even the most tired skin.
"Radiance Serum is a miracle in a bottle. Obsessed is an understatement!" Stephanie Pratt, Actress
10 Things You May Not Know About Sunscreen
Jul 17, 2018
We all know that suncream is a must-pack holiday item, but not everyone knows how to use it properly. Poor or infrequent application can easily lead to burning and long-term skin damage - or even cancer, which is why we've put together this guide of often-overlooked sun protection essential facts.
For an easy way to incorporate suncream into your daily skincare routine all year round, try our award-winning SPF 30 Moisturising Primer.
10 Things You May Not Know About Sunscreen
1. You need a suncream which has both UVA and UVB protection.
The SPF value we are used to seeing on sun cream packaging only refers to the amount of protection against the sun's burning rays know as UVB rays, and does not explain the level of protection against the very damaging and ageing rays called UVA. You need a sunscreen with both UVA and UVB protection known as broad spectrum protection since both UVA and UVB can cause skin cancer. Look for details of broad spectrum protection on packaging rather than relying on the SPF value alone.
2. Higher SPF is not necessarily better.
Studies show that using SPF15 filters 93% of damaging sun rays. SPF30 filters 97% and SPF50 filters 98%. You do not therefore get double the protection if use SPF30 rather than SPF15. Using SPF30 is considered the optimum level of protection since it gives you extremely high shielding without the additional disadvantages of thicker high factor creams. Using SPF30 also ensures you are not lulled into the false sense of security that you are protected for longer. Liberal and regular application of SPF30 is recommended by experts.
3. Sunscreen is not the only protection you need.
We should not rely entirely on sun creams to shield ourselves from the sun. Protection against the sun is the single most important thing you should do to ensure healthy skin and prevent premature ageing. Use sunscreen, but also seek out shade, cover up with loose natural fibre clothing, and wear a hat.
4. Sunscreen isn't just for outdoor use.
Glass effectively blocks UVB rays but it still allows UVA rays to penetrate. Damaging rays can therefore reach your skin if you sit near a window, are in a car, or on a train. UV exposure is cumulative, and research shows that skin exposed to UV through office or car windows can cause long term significant skin damage.
5. Sunscreen expires.
Sunscreen products expire and the effectiveness of them reduces over time, or if stored in extreme heat or damp environments. Ensure the product you use is within its recommended shelf life. If in doubt, re stock regularly.
6. No sunscreen is totally waterproof or sweat proof.
Sunscreen which claims to be water resistant still needs to be reapplied after swimming or after excessive sweating. There is no product which is entirely waterproof. Reapply liberally after swimming or exercising.
7. If sunscreen is not applied correctly it is no use.
Suncream must be applied as directed. Use liberally and often. Patchy or sporadic application will not offer the protection you need. Always apply your product at least 20 minutes before going outside.
8. Even the darkest skin tone needs to use Sunscreen.
All skin, irrespective of tone, needs to be protected from damaging UV rays. Skin with high pigmentation does offer more natural protection against UV but all skin is vulnerable to skin cancers and to premature ageing effects of the sun.
9. You need to use sun screen all year round.
The sun's UV rays can cause damage to your skin all year round. Sunscreen should be applied to exposed skin, and especially the face, 365 days of the year.
10. Supplements are not enough protection. You still need sunscreen.
Small studies have suggested taking supplements or having a diet rich in beta-carotene, cocoa, vitamin C, and/or vitamin E may provide modest protection from sun damage to the skin. It has also been reported in the Daily Mail that there may be a pill to stop skin cancer see http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-47937/The-pill-end-sunburn.html However, the advice still remains to use sunscreen in addition to supplements.
The SPF value we are used to seeing on sun cream packaging only refers to the amount of protection against the sun's burning rays know as UVB rays, and does not explain the level of protection against the very damaging and ageing rays called UVA. You need a sunscreen with both UVA and UVB protection known as broad spectrum protection since both UVA and UVB can cause skin cancer. Look for details of broad spectrum protection on packaging rather than relying on the SPF value alone.
2. Higher SPF is not necessarily better.
Studies show that using SPF15 filters 93% of damaging sun rays. SPF30 filters 97% and SPF50 filters 98%. You do not therefore get double the protection if use SPF30 rather than SPF15. Using SPF30 is considered the optimum level of protection since it gives you extremely high shielding without the additional disadvantages of thicker high factor creams. Using SPF30 also ensures you are not lulled into the false sense of security that you are protected for longer. Liberal and regular application of SPF30 is recommended by experts.
3. Sunscreen is not the only protection you need.
We should not rely entirely on sun creams to shield ourselves from the sun. Protection against the sun is the single most important thing you should do to ensure healthy skin and prevent premature ageing. Use sunscreen, but also seek out shade, cover up with loose natural fibre clothing, and wear a hat.
4. Sunscreen isn't just for outdoor use.
Glass effectively blocks UVB rays but it still allows UVA rays to penetrate. Damaging rays can therefore reach your skin if you sit near a window, are in a car, or on a train. UV exposure is cumulative, and research shows that skin exposed to UV through office or car windows can cause long term significant skin damage.
5. Sunscreen expires.
Sunscreen products expire and the effectiveness of them reduces over time, or if stored in extreme heat or damp environments. Ensure the product you use is within its recommended shelf life. If in doubt, re stock regularly.
6. No sunscreen is totally waterproof or sweat proof.
Sunscreen which claims to be water resistant still needs to be reapplied after swimming or after excessive sweating. There is no product which is entirely waterproof. Reapply liberally after swimming or exercising.
7. If sunscreen is not applied correctly it is no use.
Suncream must be applied as directed. Use liberally and often. Patchy or sporadic application will not offer the protection you need. Always apply your product at least 20 minutes before going outside.
8. Even the darkest skin tone needs to use Sunscreen.
All skin, irrespective of tone, needs to be protected from damaging UV rays. Skin with high pigmentation does offer more natural protection against UV but all skin is vulnerable to skin cancers and to premature ageing effects of the sun.
9. You need to use sun screen all year round.
The sun's UV rays can cause damage to your skin all year round. Sunscreen should be applied to exposed skin, and especially the face, 365 days of the year.
10. Supplements are not enough protection. You still need sunscreen.
Small studies have suggested taking supplements or having a diet rich in beta-carotene, cocoa, vitamin C, and/or vitamin E may provide modest protection from sun damage to the skin. It has also been reported in the Daily Mail that there may be a pill to stop skin cancer see http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-47937/The-pill-end-sunburn.html However, the advice still remains to use sunscreen in addition to supplements.
Remember. The single most important thing you can do to protect your skin from skin cancers and from premature ageing is to protect it from the sun.
Learn more about our SPF 30 Primer here.
