Summer has finally arrived! Your salon guests look to you as experts on all things indoor tanning – let them know that you’ve got the knowledge about tanning outdoors, as well. [gap height=”25″]
Here is some basic info you can share regarding sun protection:[gap height=”25″]
In the northern hemisphere, UVB irradiance (the wavelength responsible for sunburn) is greatest in the summer months, and between the hours of 10am and 2pm. UVA irradiance (the wavelength that penetrates the skin more deeply) continues throughout the day and can exceed that of UVB energy by ten- to 1,000-fold. [gap height=”25″]
SPF stands for “Sun Protection Factor” (maybe it should stand for Sunburn Protection Factor) and is the standard means of expressing a sunscreen product’s effectiveness in protecting the skin from UV overexposure. It represents a ratio of the Minimal Erythemal Dose (MED – the length of UV exposure needed to produce perceptible reddening 24 hours later) to the natural level of sun protection your skin has. The SPF value of a sunscreen product refers to the length of time a person can be exposed to UV without burning when the sunscreen product has been applied, compared to the effect of that exposure without the product. For example, an SPF of 15 means one can be exposed to UV energy 15 times longer with a sunscreen than without it. The average person’s bare, un-tanned skin has a natural SPF of 1.[gap height=”25″]
Chemical sunscreen agents are divided into three groups: those which absorb UVA, those which primarily absorb UVB and those which absorb both UV wavelengths. It is preferable to use a broadband or full-spectrum product, as they protect against penetration of both UVB and UVA rays. They also will mitigate the cumulative damage of photoaging (wrinkling) and can minimize photosensitivity reactions, both of which can be caused by UVA.[gap height=”25″]
A sunblock is an opaque formulation which absorbs, reflects and scatters up to 99% of both UV and visible light. They are often used on localized, sun-sensitive areas such as the nose, lips, ears and shoulders. Because they are often messy and may stain clothing, sunblocks may not be practical for application over large areas of skin. An example of a sunblock agent is zinc oxide.[gap height=”25″]
On the other hand, sunscreens absorb specific UV wavelengths and are classified as drugs by the FDA. Sunscreens are considered more cosmetically refined tan sunblocks due to their pleasing, more lotion-like consistency and are, therefore, typically used for effective photoprotection.[gap height=”25″]
If you decide to use a spray-booth or self-tanner to create an “immediate” tanned look, remember that the ingredients in these tanning products do not provide your skin with a natural barrier (or photoprotection), and will leave you susceptible to sunburn when you’re outside or otherwise exposed to UV light.[gap height=”25″]
When it comes to UV exposure – indoors and outdoors – moderation is key! Always use an SPF product when spending extended periods of time outside, and re-apply regularly.[gap height=”25″]
In addition to sun protection info, be sure to stock your shelves with SPF products from your favorite indoor lotion manufacturer![gap height=”25″]
