Sun protection in the city
Photos DR
Words Anthony Vincent
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Although sunglasses are definitely stylish, sun cream is essential.
As soon as the first rays of sunshine appear, everyone dons their favorite sunglasses. Sunscreen is a completely different story. Yet, while on the way to the office, seated on a terrace for an after-work drink or on a sunny weekend getaway, the skin needs sun protection more than ever. During the first few days of sunshine, the risk of sunburn is at its peak, as we have just emerged from winter. Our skin is not at all prepared for sun exposure and therefore becomes thicker in order to protect itself.
Harmful urban sun
In the city in particular, it is essential to effectively protect yourself from the elements and pollution (carbon monoxide, exhaust fumes, heavy metals, the stress of a hectic lifestyle that accelerates skin ageing, etc.), which exacerbates the harmful effects of the sun. Even more so due to the white walls and glass facades of city buildings that intensely reflect the sun's rays. What's worse, UVA rays - which penetrate deeper into the skin than UVB rays - can pass through windows, reaching you even when you're in your car or at the office.
A protective layer each morning
As soon as spring arrives, it is important to use sun protection in order to safely start tanning and prevent skin ageing. Generally speaking, you should choose a sun protection factor (also known as SPF) of 20 or higher if you value your health. This minimum is suitable for darker skin tones, while SPF 50 will protect fairer skin. For the majority of the population, SPF 30 should be sufficient, which is great news, because our Mattifying Face Moisturiser is also available in SPF30.
Sunscreens for everyday, on-the-go use
Individuals with fair and sensitive skin that is also prone to redness and rosacea, should always carry compact sun protection with them. Just like you don't wait until you're on holiday to slip your sunglasses into your bag "just in case", sun protection cream should also become a reflex, provided you choose a practical format that is always on hand.
As sun protection loses its effectiveness the longer you wear it, it’s a good idea to keep a stock of it in your bag or desk drawer so that you can easily reapply it after a lunch on the terrace or before heading to the rooftop. Again, sun cream does not prevent you from getting a tan. On the contrary, it will even help you to achieve a healthier and longer lasting tan, because your skin will be healthier. Effectively protecting your skin in the city will help ensure that you don’t burn to a crisp when you are finally on holiday.