Using Sunscreen and Skin Treatments to Heal Winter Skin

We’ve all heard about the harmful effects of the sun and the importance of regularly wearing sunscreen.  However, it’s easy to forget to apply that SPF 30 (or higher) everyday, especially when the gloomy, grey winter weather is anything but sunny.  The trained estheticians at Laser Lights Cosmetic Laser Center remind us however, that the UV rays present during overcast weather can be even more damaging than those we’re used to feeling during the warmer months.

Both types of rays emitted by the sun (UVA and UVB) are potentially damaging to your skin.  UVA rays produce premature aging by penetrating deep into the layers of the skin and slowing the body’s ability to produce collagen- eventually resulting in wrinkles.  UVB rays are responsible for burning the skin.  Because sunburn typically (depending on your skin tone and type) makes one more susceptible to developing skin cancer, cumulative UVB damage is also very dangerous.  Unlike the highly specialized light from laser resurfacing equipment, whose penetration and reach can be mechanically controlled, light from the sun’s rays can unpredictably impede future skin cell development.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) report on sun protection, certain mineral components of broad spectrum sunscreen are not only useful in preventing sun damage, but also useful in healing certain skin conditions.  Zinc oxide, a physical compound within sunscreen that protects skin from UV harm by reflecting light, is also helpful in soothing minor skin irritation (wind burn and chapping) and aggravated, dry skin patches.  Used for years as an active ingredient in healing compounds like diaper rash creams, zinc oxide might be just the healing mineral your winter skin craves.

The estheticians at Laser Lights use sunscreen as part of many after care regimens following microdermabrasion and other skin procedures.  In addition to zinc oxide, Laser Lights private label sunscreen contains other soothing ingredients like green tea and vitamin A to maximize the healing benefits of each application.

To learn more about the anti-aging skin treatments and skin care products available at Laser Lights visit call our center at (770) 495-9322 and continue to read our blog for more information.