Hey there, sun lovers! We know how important it is to get out and enjoy every moment of summer in Maine, especially after a particularly dreary winter and spring. But, we want to make sure we help preserve the work you’re doing to keep your skin healthy and beautiful. So, in honor of summer—and UV Awareness Month—we’re here to share some tips on how to keep your skin as healthful and radiant as possible while you make the most of this short-lived sunshine. Here are some of our top sun safety tips that you can use in summer (and all year round), plus an added bonus about our top treatments to reverse the effects of existing sun damage.
Stay Sun Savvy: Sun Safety Tips
It’s no secret that UV exposure can impact skin health and appearance. But do you know why? UV radiation is strong enough to burn the visible outer layer of the skin, the epidermis, but it is also able penetrate beyond that layer, reaching the connective tissue below. Not only does this increase one’s risk for skin cancer, which is the most important concern, but this can also lead to premature aging of the skin, called photoaging. That can manifest as wrinkles, pigmentation, sun/brown spots, and a decline in general skin elasticity. In other words, many of the most common reasons you came to us in the first place!
There’s no better way to protect your skin from harmful UV rays than seeking shade. But that’s not always possible, nor in the plans. From beach trips to baseball games, summer sun is strong and ever-present. When possible, do seek out some cooling shade during peak UV hours (usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.), when the sun’s rays are strongest.
The next most important thing is wearing sunscreen with a broad-spectrum SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 30 or higher. And don’t skimp on the ‘screen! Apply it generously to all exposed areas, including commonly overlooked spots like your ears, neck, and the backs of your hands.
Remember, makeup with SPF isn’t the same as sunscreen! Having SPF in your makeup or daily moisturizer is an incredible extra layer of protection, which is why we offer so many SPF skincare products in our store, but that doesn’t mean you can skip the straight-up sunscreen (and yes, we offer those, too so you don’t have to go looking for one that suits your individual skin type and needs!). Reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating – and even when you plan to be in the shade, because you’ll still be exposed for periods of time, and going unprotected even for a short period can be dangerous.
Also, don’t underestimate the power of protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses to shield yourself from harmful UV rays, plus SPF tops, coverups, shorts, and more. If you were considering going sans sunscreen for something like a wedding or another outdoor event, picture us begging you not to—and then head online for some really stylish SPF clothing options.
While we can’t reverse time, we can reverse past sun damage
Information about the sun’s effect on skin appearance has come a long way over the past few decades. But even those of us who were always conscious of what the sun could do to our skin, our younger, less sunscreen-conscious selves did quite a number on our complexions. That’s where Nordlys IPL and PicoWay Resolve come into play.
Nordlys IPL: This innovative treatment utilizes powerful light pulses to target sun spots, sun damage, freckles aging, facial veins, redness, and even melasma. With precise and controlled energy, Nordlys IPL stimulates collagen production and helps your skin regain its natural glow.
PicoWay Resolve: This effective, targeted solution helps men and women address pigmented lesions caused by sun exposure by employing ultra-short picosecond laser pulses to precisely target and break down irregularities in skin tone. This advanced, FDA-cleared laser treatment also stimulates collagen production and rejuvenates your skin, resulting in a more even complexion and a youthful appearance.
To achieve optimal results, the fall season, with its milder sun exposure, is an ideal time for these popular skin rejuvenation procedures so your skin can recover without being exposed to intense sunlight. Plus, that gives you plenty of time to schedule ahead and leave your free time this summer for basking (safely) in the sun.
As with all of our services, if you’re interested in one of these treatments, our experienced team will guide you through the process, tailoring a plan to meet your specific needs, and help you achieve your desired results.
Suspicious moles and spots
At CEC, we want to help you look and feel your best, but above all, skin health is our most important goal. That’s why our consultations and treatments are so involved and individualized. Our skilled team is also renowned for helping address questionable or suspicious lesions and moles, performing biopsies to evaluate and diagnose such areas, offering you peace of mind—and a plan of action—if we suspect further care is needed. We prioritize your health and well-being by addressing these concerns and providing the necessary guidance for further evaluation or treatment.
This summer get out there and live life to its fullest without setting your aesthetic goals back.
Interested in more information about what skincare products are best for you, or how to reverse existing signs of sun damage and aging skin? Contact us today to schedule a complimentary consultation with one of our aesthetics experts.
Cosmetic Enhancement Center of New England