Tuesday, October 26, 2010

What's New: Only Skinning The Surface


Sunscreen makes some shudder and others scream.

It’s notorious for being sticky and oily, with the texture sparking a flood of childhood memories.

Remember being rubbed and shoved while having sunscreen slapped on?

Sun Exposure Risks
With one of the highest incidences of skin cancer, Australians need to be conscious of sun protection.

Yet over 1.8 million Australian women are still unprepared to cover up in summer.

The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can’t be felt or seen but are showing their presence in Australia’s skin cancer rates.

With two in three Australians being diagnosed with skin cancer by the time they’re 70, it’s time for Australians to start covering up.

‘UV rays cause the outer layer of our skin to release chemicals that cause our blood vessels to swell and leak fluid, which causes sunburn’, says Professor Ian Olver, CEO of the Cancer Council.

UV rays are a combination of UVA and UVB rays, which penetrate deep into the skin’s dermis causing irreversible damage and increasing the risk of developing skin cancer.

The Effect
Accelerated appearance of wrinkles and ageing spots causing irreversible damage to the skin’s structure.

These rays, in addition to regular environmental pollution, constantly bombard the skin, accounts for 70 percent of the signs of aging.

Despite the importance of skin protection throughout the year, with summer just around the corner it should become part of our daily routine.

Protect Yourself
For added protection, tightly-woven fabrics are great for shielding the skin from unwanted sun exposure, with hats and sunglasses perfect for additional sun defence.

Professor Olver suggests covering up in five ways including ‘slipping on a shirt, slopping on sunscreen, slapping on a hat, sliding on sunglasses and seeking shade.’
Reapplication of sunscreen every two hours is recommended by the Cancer Council as ideal when out in the sun.

Advancements in sunscreen mean that the lighter texture, in combination with stronger preventative ingredients, have seen women prioritising sun protection.

So what are the best sunscreens for summer?


Olay Complete Defence SPF 30+ $14.69



It’s the perfect size for popping in your handbag or glove box while the lightweight formula won’t leave skin feeling clogged and oily.
For more, go to olay.com

L’Oréal UV Perfect SPF 30+
$24.95



A combined sunscreen and moisturiser with a fine fluid that is quickly absorbed into the skin. This product also provides intense hydration - ideal for preventing premature ageing.
For more, go to loreal.com

Kit SPF 30+ Face Sunscreen
$31.95



A broad spectrum protection option that’s smooth and is suitable for acne-prone skin. Pop it on after you moisturise and its matte-finish leaves a great base for your makeup.
For more, go to kitcosmetics.com.au

Clinique City Block Sheer SPF 25
$36


An alternative to everyday sunscreen that provides a tinted and sheer finish. It’s perfect for those with sensitive skin as it is 100 percent fragrance-free.
For more, go to clinique.com.au

Invisible Zinc Environmental Skin Protector SPF 30+
$35





Hydrating while neutralising aggressors such as pollution and UV rays. Invisible mineral reflectors are used to physically repel UV rays instead of the commonly used chemical filters which absorb UVB rays.
For more, go to invisiblezinc.com


Get Involved




National Skin Cancer Action Week, between the 21st and 27th of November, raises awareness of skin cancer. With a male emphasis this year, the Cancer Council and ambassador Australian cricketer Michael Clarke are urging you to remind the men in your life to be more proactive in their approach to skin cancer awareness.

For more information
• Cancer.org.au
The Cancer Council’s website suggests great ways for you to protect your skin this season.
• Sunsmart.com.au
Take a look at this website for preventative ways that can lower the risks of sun exposure.



NB Thanks to Ash, Steph, Tara, Brook and Paul for their help.

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