It’s getting hot out there!

 

I love this time of year, springtime coming into summer which is my favourite season. Most kiwis like to play and live at the beach over the summer months. In the height of summer our sun is really strong and we are exposed to stronger UV rays in New Zealand than anywhere else. The reason for this is because there is less ozone to block the UV rays that cause sunburn. We also have less pollution here so the harmful UV rays can get through more easily.

While we enjoy the summer time we need to be aware of this so that we don’t join the 50,000 people in New Zealand who are diagnosed each year with skin cancer or the 200 people who die. Look at your skin all over your body regularly and if any spots or moles change in colour or become itchy go to the doctor to see if it needs further investigation. If in doubt check it out. Ask your beauty therapist and massage therapist to also look out for any suspect spots – often it’s hard to see what’s on your back.

There is a difference between UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays penetrate deeper into your skin causing a lot of damage and prematurely ages your skin; this can be happening even if you’re not getting sunburnt. The UVB rays penetrate shallower, therefore creating the burn.

So what can we do for protection? Stay out of the sun during the high burn times of the day, wear hats, cover up and use sunscreen. Not all sunscreens are created equal and you should be using one all year round, especially if you want to prevent the deeper damage of premature ageing on your face.

We have New Zealand-made natural sunscreens that offer high protection and are safe to use all year round. Apply generously when you use your sunscreen and if you’re on the water go for a water resistant brand. Most Beauty clinics stock brands that protect you from both UVA and UVB rays. Some people are very sensitive to the chemicals found in sunscreens so ask for a sample of a natural sunscreen to check that you won’t react. You can also purchase oil-free tinted sunscreens that give you the UV protection and also even your complexion, so great for your face.

If you like the look of a tan, try out a spray tan. It’s a great alternative to a burn. There are lovely natural looking spray tans that are organic in ingredients, definitely better for you than the harmful UV rays that the sun and sun beds give you. The best preparation for a spray tan, to give you the perfect result, is to exfoliate your body first removing all dry dead skin cells; mitts/gloves and body scrubs will do this. I love spray tans and treat myself coming into summer. You can also use self-tanning creams, just prepare your skin first and apply it evenly taking care to wash the palms of your hands afterwards.

If you are normally a sun worshipper, try to be sun smart this summer. Remember that 200 people every year in New Zealand die from skin cancer. Find a sunscreen that you are happy with and is safe to use every day; make it part of your routine. If you like the tanned look, give a spray tan a try. You can get different colour tones to suit you. Make the choice to protect your skin and be healthy. A tan is really just a burn and skin damage.

NOTE: We are now opening extra days in Waipu – late nights Tuesday and Thursday – plus an experienced therapist is now working in this salon.

n Alex Donald is owner of Pure Essence Face & Body Clinic and has worked in the beauty industry for 20 years. Visit pureessence.co.nz