Did you know that sun exposure is the leading cause of premature ageing in Australia? Not only this, we still have the highest rate of skin cancer in the world, and only 55% of our population wear sunscreen on a daily basis.*
Exposure to the sun causes both the deeper epidermis and superficial layers of the skin to age prematurely, resulting in pigmentation, dark spots or static fine lines. It's a myth that applying sunscreen is only important during summer, on sunny days or with intentional and prolonged exposure to the sun. Wearing sunscreen daily is more important than ever before.
What to consider when choosing your sunscreen..
1. Look for broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays.
UVA rays account for 95% of UV radiation reaching the earth's surface. It penetrates deep into the skin's epidermis and is the main cause of photo ageing and skin damage. UVA also penetrates through clouds and glass, meaning incidental exposure – such as when you're driving for short periods of time – can also account for pigmentation and ageing damage in specific areas. UVB rays penetrate the superficial layer of the skin and is the principal cause of redness and sunburn. Both are direct contributors to skin cancer with prolonged exposure. Ella Baché's suncare range offers both UVA and UVB protection.
2. Choose the right SPF.
Sun Protection Factor (SPF) measures how well a product protects individual skin from sunburn. For example, when using an SPF30 sunscreen it will take 30 times longer for skin to show redness, compared to how long it takes unprotected skin to show redness. Therefore, the required SPF for a person differs according to several factors including skin tone (whether you have fairer skin prone to burning or darker skin that doesn't burn easily) and the time of exposure to the sun. It is recommended to opt for a minimum of SPF30, and should be applied 20 minutes before exposure to UV and re-applied at least every 2 hours when outdoors, after swimming or perspiration.
3. Ensure your sunscreen is tested and approved by the TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration).
This is a division of the Australian Department of Health, responsible for regulating and safeguarding Australian products. Unlike many other suncare products on the market, Ella Baché’s suncare ingredients undergo rigorous testing to ensure the products are of the highest standard and suitable for Australia’s climate. Ella Baché’s range is made and tested in Australia with our harsh climate in mind.
4. Look for ingredients with antioxidants.
It's important to keep in mind that UV filters never provide 100% protection. Antioxidants combined with SPF can decrease the risk of early skin ageing. Antioxidants are part of the skincare benefits that are in all Ella Baché sunscreens – including Green Tea, Vitamin E and Pomegranate – providing a valuable second line of defense by providing cellular protection from UV rays.
What else can you do to protect your skin?
Wear protective layers - Cover up when possible with long-sleeved shirts and pants. Keep in mind that different garments offer different levels of protection. For example, lighter-coloured garments have less UV protection than darker-coloured garments.
Limit sun exposure between 10am and 3pm - This is when the sun's rays are strongest. Even on an overcast day, up to 80% of the sun's UV rays can get through the clouds. Stay in the shade as much as possible throughout the day.
Use a generous amount of sunscreen - It is very unlikely that you’re applying too much sunscreen. The average-sized adult should apply more than half a teaspoon of sunscreen to each arm and the face/neck, and just over one teaspoon to each leg, the front of the body and the back of the body.
Check 'use by' date on packaging - Unless indicated by an expiration date, the standard international requirement is that all sunscreens be stable and at their original strength for at least 2 years after opening.
Our best-selling SPF products
*Cancer Council Media Release: https://www.cancer.org.au/news/media-releases/almost-half-of-australians-confused-about-sunscreen.html