Sunscreen: Is it Necessary in February?

When clients come to see me for facial treatments like glycolic and vitamin C peels, a few common skin care topics tend to come up over and over again. Some of the questions I hear every day deal with winter skin care, and since these issues are important, I thought I’d share them here.

My freckles are increasing and I seem to have uneven patches and sun damage. But it’s February. What does this mean?

It means you’ve been in the sun! Winter sun in Michigan has the same UV rays as a Florida beach sun in July. It’s the same sun. And if you plan to be out and about during the day, you’ll need to use the same protection, no matter the season and no matter where you live. Don’t neglect your skin. Sunglasses and felt hats on the streets of Manhattan are just as important as big shades and floppy beach hats in Miami.

Okay, okay, I get it! I’ll take care of my skin, I promise. What sun protection products should I use?

Add years to the resilience and even tone of your skin by applying PABA free sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Every day. I recommend skin care products by Aveda and Intelligent Nutrients.

Should I protect my hair as well?

Of course. Have you ever seen a plastic awning or an old poster in the window of an ice cream shop? Have you seen how the surface cracks and the colors fade after just a short period of exposure? The same forces are at work on your hair. Of course, sun damaged hair can’t cause serious health problems like sun damaged skin, but dryness, dullness and fading are all part of the package. Try Suncare Protective Hair Veil, by Aveda. This product contains UV filters derived from natural plant oils and green tea extract, and it forms an invisible shield that helps sun-drenched hair retain its moisture and vibrancy.