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Why you should encourage your clients to use sunscreen daily
Whether or not to wear sunscreen on your face and neck every day should not be optional, but rather a necessity.
Especially pertinent to this country with the harsh South African sun, the difference in appearance of skin that has enjoyed the regular application of sunscreen over the years and one that hasn’t can be really significant.
The sun’s harmful UV rays have the potential to harm and even destroy skin cells, resulting in hyperpigmentation, sunburn, wrinkles, a leathery skin texture and, in some cases, skin cancer.
According to the experts at sun care provider Piz Buin, despite the accessibility of sunscreen products, some people are still reluctant to use one, thinking they don’t need it. Or they forget to apply it.
Salons should explain to clients that the sun’s rays emit UV light, which is an invisible form of radiation. Says the Piz Buin team: “Exposure to this radiation can result in damaged skin cells, which manifests in the form of wrinkles and discolouration (also referred to as hyperpigmentation). UV exposure can also result in skin cancer.
“While those with fair skin and light hair are at higher risk, the truth is that anyone can get skin cancer, no matter what your age, skin type or ethnicity. UV radiation is not just a summer concern. The sun’s rays can damage your skin on overcast and wintery days too, so it’s important to stick to your sun care regime all year round.
“It is recommended that everyone (including children and babies over the age of six months) wear a broad spectrum SPF on all exposed areas of the body, whenever they go outside. Broad spectrum means that it offers protection against both UVA rays (the rays that are responsible for ageing the skin) and UVB rays (the rays that are responsible for burning the skin).
“The skin on our necks is as vulnerable as the skin on our faces, and because both are usually exposed, it’s essential that they are protected by sunscreen every time you step outside.”