Summer is finally here in Metropolitan France, and it's time to enjoy the sun and outdoor activities. However, before you dive headlong into the sunshine, it's essential to prepare your skin for safe exposure. In this article, we explain how to take care of your skin to avoid the dangers of overexposure to the sun!
Excessive exposure to the sun can lead to skin damage, sunburn, premature aging and even an increased risk of skin cancer. Fortunately, there are many ways to protect yourself against these risks:
Avoid direct exposure to the sun during the hottest hours of the day
The sun's rays are most intense between 10 am and 4 pm. It's best to stay indoors or in the shade during these hours to reduce exposure to the most harmful UV rays.
Wear protective clothing
Clothing can provide an effective barrier against the sun's rays. Opt for long-sleeved clothing, preferably tightly woven, to block UV rays. Also wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face, ears and neck.
Use the right sun cream
Choose a sunscreen that offers protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Look for a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30, which indicates the level of protection against sunburn. Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed areas of your skin, including your face, neck, arms and legs. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, or more frequently if you sweat a lot or go swimming. Even water-resistant sunscreens can fade or be washed off by water or perspiration, so it's important to reapply to maintain adequate protection.
Protect your eyes
UV rays can also damage your eyes. Wear sunglasses with appropriate UV protection to shield your eyes from the sun's harmful rays.
Be aware of the environment
Bear in mind that certain surfaces, such as water or sand, can reflect UV rays and increase your exposure. Even in the shade, you may be exposed to indirect UV rays. So be sure to take protective measures even when you're in the shade.
The protective power of astaxanthin
Astaxanthin is a natural pigment found in some seafood, algae and fish, and is known for its ability to act as a powerful antioxidant. When consumed or applied to the skin, astaxanthin helps protect cells against damage caused by free radicals generated by exposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays. Free radicals can damage skin cells, causing premature aging and contributing to the development of skin problems such as wrinkles or sun spots.
A study published in the Journal of Dermatological Science in 2010 examined the effect of astaxanthin on human skin cells exposed to UV rays. The results showed that astaxanthin had protective effects by reducing the production of free radicals, increasing antioxidant enzymes and inhibiting UV-induced inflammatory reactions. Another study, published in Experimental Dermatology in 2009, assessed the effect of astaxanthin on the skin of mice exposed to UVB radiation. The results showed that astaxanthin reduced DNA damage, decreased skin inflammation and improved the skin's antioxidant response. These studies suggest that astaxanthin may have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and DNA-protective properties, which may contribute to skin protection against UV radiation.
Because of its many beneficial properties, astaxanthin is a highly valued ingredient at Ecosystem Laboratoire. We market many products containing astaxanthin, such as our Living Gold in our dietary supplements range, or our Cana'Bo CBD Serum and our new Cana'Bo CBD Balm in our cosmetics range.
