As the season of winter arrives, we often forget about the importance of protecting our skin from the harsh winter realties. Throughout the summer months, most of us routinely follow the slip-slop-slap fundamentals that we get ingrained into our memory from a young age.
 However, come winter and spring we often forget about the harm it can do to our skin. We leave our skin exposed to dangers such as high intensity winds and sun reflection, when what we need to remember is that even though there is a chill in air and the sky is overcast the sun might be doing irreversible damage.Â
Most of us do not know about the effects of ultra-violet (UV) radiation and so don’t change our routine skin-care products as the seasons change. The sun continuously emits UV rays, even on the greyest and cloudiest of days, and scientists consider these UV rays as one of the most harmful forms of radiation for humans.  According to the Cancer Council, chances of skin cancer soars during winter and complete protection should be taken to minimise the risk.
The visible effects of these radiations are premature wrinkles, sun spots and skin with lost elasticity. Many develop brown spots on their face and hands (especially on the right side, which gets more exposure to sunlight through the driver’s-side car window) and are more likely to build up red crusted spots which can later extend into skin cancer. So our advice is to use a clinically tested sunblock cream all year long - even during the winter season when you think you may not need it.
Know the facts….
Ultra-violet rays are not minimised during the winter. Even the most cautious outdoor enthusiasts may unknowingly put their skin at risk by leaving it unprotected or under-protected.
Fresh snow reflects up to 80 percent of the sun’s rays. This means that UV radiation not only reaches you directly, it reaches you indirectly as well when scattered and reflected by the snow. Water and snow are like concrete mirrors that significantly increase sunburn. Skiing supporters should also be particularly careful to protect their eyes and skin while enjoying vacations on the higher altitudes.Â
The Cancer Council of Australia has recently released an information sheet to help people know about the facts related to skin cancer: Â http://www.sunsmart.com.au/about_us/our_research/facts_and_stats_at_a_glance
The most (biggest) damage to our skin is often done in our youth and if you don’t look after your skin when you’re still young, chances are you will have problems later in life. By giving your skin full protection until 25, you can reduce the risk of skin cancer by more than 50 per cent. So don’t wait for the signs of aging to occur and the risks of cancer to increase, be proactive instead of reactive, as once the damage is done it’s too late. Taking a couple of minutes out of your day to apply a sun block can save you from skin problems in the future and add years to your life.
Don’t let the winter chill fool you, always slip slop slap no matter what the temperature is.
Keep in mind…..
As we strive for convenience and companies promote products as all in one healers, it is important for us to remember to use a separate sunblock, as the one mixed in with your makeup or moisturiser is usually not sufficient for the harsh weather conditions. To safeguard your skin, we offer these tips:
- If you are enjoying the fresh breeze at the beach or are outside for more that 20 minutes, wear a broad-spectrum sunblock all year-round which filters both UVA and UVB rays.
- Consult your physician if you continuously have itchy skin for more than 3 days. Have adequate knowledge about sunburn; do not assume every winter rash as windburn. In cold winter conditions, a lot of people mistake sunburn for windburn due to the similarity in symptoms.
- Devote time to make sure your face is evenly protected throughout the day and ensure you reapply. The Cosmedix range we use at The Ashley Centre offers a spray on design of sunblock for added convenience.
- Choose an SPF of 30+ or above when at higher altitudes, around snow or water.
- Wear a hat as the scalp is especially susceptible to sunburn in higher altitudes. And don’t forget to shield your eyes from UV; they can get burned too! Use sunglasses with UV protection in the snow. You’ll definitely look gorgeous and your eyes will thank you.
- If your line of work demands routine sun exposure, such as a landscaping, building, visits to construction sites etc, never underestimate the damage your job may attract. Consider sunblock as a part of your everyday routine.
At the Ashley Centre we like to remember that beautiful skin is a wonderful way to flatter the inside YOU.
So, try not to forget the importance of sun block during the cooler months, fundamentally apply it 20-30 minutes in advance before you go out. Let your skin shine and allow it to help you look younger and healthier.
