Living in Australia offers a unique lifestyle with beautiful beaches, outdoor activities, and abundant sunshine and isolation from most of the world. However, the harsh Australian sun can take a toll on our skin, leading to premature aging, sun damage, and an increased risk of skin cancer. In this article, we will explore the importance of sunscreen in protecting our skin from the damaging effects of the sun, and how combination treatments, such as wrinkle relaxers and other cosmetic procedures, can play a vital role in maintaining youthful and healthy-looking skin.
The harsh Australian sun and aging skin
Australia is known for its high levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, thanks to the hole in the ozone layer over the region, anyone that has made a trip to Esperance and surrounding regions will attest the intensity of burn is truly intense on skin. This increased UV exposure significantly contributes to skin aging. The sun’s UV rays penetrate the skin and cause damage to the underlying collagen and elastin fibers, which are responsible for keeping our
skin firm, smooth, and youthful.
Excessive sun exposure without adequate protection can lead to the premature formation of wrinkles, fine lines, age spots, and uneven skin texture. These signs of premature aging are primarily caused by the breakdown of collagen and elastin, resulting in loss of skin elasticity, firmness, and resilience.
The importance of sunscreen
One of the most effective ways to protect our skin from the damaging effects of the sun is by using sunscreen regularly. Sunscreen acts as a barrier, preventing harmful UV rays from reaching the skin and causing damage. It forms a protective shield that reflects or absorbs UV radiation, reducing its impact on our skin.
When choosing a sunscreen, it is essential to select one with broad-spectrum protection, meaning it shields against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin, leading to long-term damage and aging, while UVB rays are responsible for sunburns. Opting for a sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 is recommended, as it offers better defense against the sun’s harmful rays. Personally a SPF 50 is my preference, but each to their own.
So how regular is regular? Applying sunscreen should be a part of our daily skincare routine, regardless of the weather or season. It should be generously applied to all exposed areas of the body, including the face, neck, arms, and legs. Regular reapplication every two hours, or more frequently if sweating or swimming, is crucial for maintaining its effectiveness, probably something we could all get better at! Now lets not forget the other simple steps we can take to protect our skin, long sleeves and pants where able, a hat one with a wide brim that protects all of our head…and our ears and utilising the UV index for the times of day we are at greatest risk to exposed to the sun. For more information on effective prevention of skin cancer head to the cancer council.
Combination treatments for skin rejuvenation
While sunscreen provides vital protection against the sun’s damaging rays, it cannot reverse existing signs of aging caused by sun damage, but its never too late to start taking good care of your skin. Taking a few minutes each day to do this is also something that makes you feel nice too, so there’s good reason to invest this time. This is where combination treatments come into play, combination treatments involve the use of various cosmetic procedures and skincare products to address multiple skin concerns simultaneously.
Wrinkle relaxers, commonly known as neuromodulators, are one popular form of combination treatment. These injectables, work by temporarily relaxing the muscles that cause dynamic wrinkles, such as frown lines, crow’s feet, and forehead lines. By reducing muscle movement in these areas, wrinkle relaxers can soften existing wrinkles and prevent new ones from forming.
Combining wrinkle relaxers with other treatments, such as dermal fillers or skin resurfacing procedures, can enhance overall results. Dermal fillers help restore lost volume and plumpness to areas affected by sun-related volume loss, such as the cheeks, lips, and under-eye hollows. Skin resurfacing procedures, such as laser treatments or chemical peels, can help improve skin texture, tone, and reduce pigmentation caused by sun damage.
The key to successful combination treatments is customizing the approach to each individual’s unique skin concerns and goals. Consulting with a qualified and experienced cosmetic practitioner or dermatologist is crucial to determine the most suitable combination of treatments for your specific needs.
Simple steps taken on a daily basis can slow the aging process and in combination with injectable treatments can keep that bounce in our step longer!
Disclaimer: Content in this blog and linked materials is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. If you or any other person has a medical concern, professional medical treatment should be sought. Call your doctor or emergency services immediately if you believe you have a medical emergency.