Probably one of the more common questions after a facelift or botox procedure is what should I do to take care of my skin everyday?
One key component of that is finding a daily sunscreen to wear. The is is a key in preventative aging. Here is the science on this in a simplified format. Our skin ages in two different ways: intrinsically (our cells getting older) and by the sun (dermatohelosis or photoaging). A daily use of sunscreen will help limit our exposure to harmful sunrays UVA and UVB. Even if you are driving, UVA rays can penetrate your car window. This is the reason most of us in the States have more aging on our left side, while those in Britain have more aging on the right side.
The problem with just any sunscreen is that it has to feel good on your skin, be effective, and non-irritating. In order to be effective, your sun screen must block both UVA and UVB. The spF number just means that it can block UVB. It must state that it can block UVA as well. Sometimes patients will believe that a spF 70+ is way better than a spF15. While there is more sunblocking ability, spF 15 product will block 92% of sun, while a spF 30 will block 96%.
If a product does not feel good on your skin, you will not use it- plain and simple. If it causes irritations or breakouts, again the product is not likely to be used.
There are a large number of great sunscreens, particularily in the daily moisturizers, out there. Some of my favorites (all block UVA/UVB) include:
La Roche-Posay Anthelios SPF 40 ($40) – fantastic UVA blocker with Mexoryl SX:
Clinique City Block Sheer Oil Free Daily Face Protector spF 25 ($18)
and for sensitive skin Vanicream Sensitive skin ($13)
Durable and Long Lasting favoriet is Neutrogena Healthy Defense SPF 45 ($13)
For Oily Skin Purpose Dual Treatment SPF 15 ($9)
Acne Prone Skin, UV Essentiel by Chanel ($48)
