As summer hits its stride, our longing for a sun-kissed glow intensifies. But let’s not forget that our skin—the body’s largest organ—needs special care during these sunny months.
Constant exposure to pollutants and UV rays can do a number on our skin, leading to not only skin cancer but also premature ageing.
Particularly vulnerable areas like the face, hands, and feet often bear the brunt of this exposure, showing signs of ageing faster.
Reality Check on Sun Protection Habits
A recent survey by Hada Labo Tokyo, Japan’s top skincare brand, reveals some concerning sun protection habits among UK women.
The study shows that a staggering 85% of women head outdoors without sunscreen even in warm weather. Only 35% of women consistently wear sunscreen when it’s sunny, and 69% skip applying it to their faces.
Dr. Hilary Jones, a GP and medical broadcaster, stresses, “Women are overlooking the need for daily sun protection.
Awareness about the importance of sunscreen isn’t where it should be. Nine in ten women believe more information should be available about why sunscreen is essential.”
Despite these figures, 91% of women know the sun can cause skin damage, and 88% understand the link between skin damage and ageing. Yet, an astonishing 57% skip sunscreen in hopes of achieving a better tan.
Dr. Nisa Aslam, a GP, skin specialist, and member of the Hada Labo Tokyo Skin Care Panel, adds, “The sun offers health benefits like vitamin D, but it also poses risks such as skin cancer and accelerated ageing. Sun damage can occur even on cloudy days, so sunscreen is a must.”
UVA vs. UVB: What You Need to Know
The research highlights a significant knowledge gap: 45% of women don’t know the difference between UVA and UVB rays. Younger women (ages 18 to 29) are more likely to understand this distinction.
Dr. Aslam explains, “UVA radiation, which makes up 95% of the sunlight that reaches Earth, is the primary cause of tanning and skin ageing.
UVB radiation, though not as penetrating, can cause severe damage to the skin’s upper layers and lead to skin cancer.”
Hydration: The Secret to Youthful Skin
Keeping skin hydrated is crucial for maintaining a youthful appearance. Dr. Aslam notes, “Well-hydrated skin looks younger.
While 70% of women regularly think about hydrating their skin, only 40% increase hydration during the summer.”
Interestingly, 62% of women under 30 are more likely to focus on skin hydration during winter.
Dr. Catherine Hood, a women’s health expert and Hada Labo Tokyo Skin Care Panel member, remarks, “Skincare education is improving among younger generations.
However, many women remain unaware of the full impact of UV rays and the importance of sunscreen.”
6 Ways to Protect Your Skin This Summer
- Wear a High SPF Dr. Hood advises, “Choose a sunscreen with at least SPF 50 that protects against both UVA and UVB rays.” Hada Labo Tokyo offers sunscreens with SPF 50 that are perfect for this.
- Look for Anti-Aging Ingredients Many women mistakenly believe sunscreen hydrates their skin. Dr. Jones says, “Sunscreen with hyaluronic acid can help keep your skin hydrated while protecting it.”
- Wear a Hat A wide-brimmed hat can shield your face and neck from UV rays. Dr. Hood suggests, “Consider UPF clothing for added protection.”
- Find Shade Dr. Jones recommends avoiding the sun during peak hours (11 am to 3 pm from March to October in the UK) and seeking shade whenever possible.
- Use the Shot Glass Method Apply a full shot glass of sunscreen for your entire body to ensure adequate protection. Dr. Jones emphasizes, “Applying too little reduces its effectiveness.”
- Apply Sunscreen Regularly One application won’t last all day. Dr. Aslam advises, “Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going out and reapply every 50 minutes when in the sun.”
Skin-Saving Suncare: The Last Word
Daily sunscreen use is one of the best secrets to glowing skin. However, 85% of women still neglect to wear it when it’s warm, and a third mistakenly believe it’s only necessary in intense heat. Hada Labo Tokyo’s SPF 50 products are designed for daily use, offering superior protection and hydration.
Must-Try Suncare Products
Hada Labo Tokyo Water-Resistant Moisturising Sunscreen: Face Cream SPF 50 This lightweight cream uses high-quality, photostable filters to shield the skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays.
It also replenishes the skin with panthenol and Super Hyaluronic Acid, ensuring intense hydration and protection.
Hada Labo Tokyo Water-Resistant Moisturising Sunscreen: Sun Lotion SPF 50 Offering the same benefits as the face cream, this non-greasy, quick-absorbing lotion is perfect for full-body coverage, even on wet skin.
It includes Super Hyaluronic Acid, panthenol, collagen, and elastin to keep the skin hydrated and youthful.
Hada Labo Tokyo’s products are available from: www.superdrug.com/ www.facebook.com/HadaLaboTokyoUK www.instagram.com/hadalabotokyo_uk/