Did you know that sun exposure is a leading cause of ageing, and that even one severe sunburn can significantly increase your chances of skin damage? Although you may think we are 2/3 of the way through Summer, and our skin has toughened up a little, it is still very important that we continue to protect our skin. According to Nivea research:
- Over a third (39%) of women admit they have sun damage they wish they had done more to prevent
- Almost 2 in 10 (17%) Australian women don’t apply sunscreen to their face (this one surprised us at Beauty Over 40)
- Almost two thirds of Australians (63%) have spent some money on skin care or treatment in the last 3 months in order to reverse the effects of ageing or sun damage.
- Australian feet are the body part least likely to be protected by sunscreen when exposed to the sun with only 28% saying they applying sunscreen to their feet.
To help slow down the ageing process, and to minimise our chance of getting sun damage, it is important that we cover up and apply sunscreen every time we are out in the sun, and look to limit our sun exposure when the UV index is at its highest. Look for a good sunscreen of at least SPF 30, that offers Broad Spectrum (UVA – Ageing, and UVB – Burning) sun protection, and make sure you apply at least 7 teaspoons over your entire body to ensure you are adequately protected (1 for your face, 1 for each arm, 1 for your torso front and back, and 1 for each leg and feet). To protect our skin, we love these Nivea beauties – Nivea Sun UV Face BB Cream SPF 50, with its light, non-greasy, non-sticky formula (even in the most humid conditions), provides Broad Spectrum UVA and UVB protection against the sun, the tinted pigments in the single shade also adapt to suit most skin tones to cover blemishes. Naturally derived antioxidants help to protect your skin against sun, and other damage. 50ml RRP $12.99. For our body, we love the Nivea Protect & Light Feel SPF 30, a super fast absorbing lotion which is formulated to feel like an every day body lotion, whilst providing Broad Spectrum UVA and UVB protection, with 4 hours water resistance. The addition of vitamin E and panthenol helps to hydrate our skin, keeping it silky and supple, without feeling greasy. The handy size means we can pop it into your bag for protection on the go. 100ml RRP $10.99. And don’t forget your delicate lips. According to Nivea Skincare Expert Robyn Hutch, “our lips are an area of the body that tends to be forgotten when it comes to sun protection. They are actually one of the most common places you can get burnt, as they are covered in a much thinner, more delicate skin than the skin on our face. Applying an SPF lip balm can protect your lips from UVA and UVB rays, preventing sun damage”. To protect our lips, every time we go outside, we love the Nivea Sun Protect Lip Balm SPF 30. The formula is dermatologically tested for skin compatability, and is water resistant for up to 4 hours. Enriched with sunflower extracts, and Hydra IQ, the deeply moisturising formula leaves your lips smooth and protected. 4.8g RRP $3.95. There really is no excuse not to protect ourselves from the sun – it is cheaper, and simpler in the long run, and your skin will thank you!
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