Top Sunscreens for Anti-Aging

Aging happens to everyone and at some point that rosy glow and healthy, tight skin, will begin to change. And while aging is inevitable, HOW we age isn’t. We don’t have control over our genetics, but we do have control over our sun habits.

“Preventing premature aging should start when you’re young enough to think “it will never happen to me.” That’s why it’s so important to wear sunscreen in your teens, 20’s and early 30’s when you feel the most invincible.” –Dr. Yam, EverYoung physician

Preventative Measures

You’ve heard it a million times. The sun is not your skin’s friend. Unfortunately, this has little impact when skin barring bikinis and the desire for a golden glow is the priority of the moment. We’re not saying not to enjoy the summer, but to take some preventative measures. Along with the risk of skin cancer, UVA rays prematurely age the skin and create damage now that will appear on the skin later.

1. Always wear sunscreen. A L W A Y S
2. Cover up with protective UV clothing / hat / sunglasses
3. Avoid the sun between the hours of 12:00 to 3:00 or when the UV index is at its highest
4. Suntan beds contribute to skin cancer. Don’t do it.

Sunscreens to try

Being in the beauty business, our staff has the unique opportunity to try multiple sunscreens and evaluate them on their ability to block UVB (burning rays) and UVA (aging rays), effectively and safely. Equally important is the texture and wearability factor in real-life conditions; alone, under makeup, while on a tropical vacation. First up—we only carry physician grade products—a designation reserved for medical doctors to ensure that the products work while respecting the physiology of the dermis. The sunscreens below are the sunscreens our doctors and staff use year-round.

ELTA MD ®

This superior range of sunscreens has a huge following of loyal fans, including celebrities such as Drew Barrymore, Justin Beiber and Zac Efron. Why do the boys love it? Because it is divinely lightweight and the “barely there” feeling appeals to anyone who is over heavy, sticky sunscreens. The girls rave that it is
the perfect makeup base for a flawless look with or without makeup. The formula comes in clear or a tinted version to add a hint of colour for a healthy looking skin with or without makeup, and provides antioxidant protection to keep skin young.

Good to know: Elta MD sunscreens are composed of zinc oxide to create a physical barrier that is not absorbed by the skin. Elta MD will not cause outbreaks or irritation and comes in a variety of formulas suitable for all skin types. This is our top choice (and the choice of dermatologist’s world-wide) for beach days or prolonged sun exposure. The formulas are fragrance-free, oil-free, paraben-free, sensitivity-free and noncomedogenic. Available for the face in SPF 30-46.

ZO ® SKIN HEALTH

ZO is the brainchild of renowned dermatologist Zein Obaji, MD. One of our favourite sunscreens from the line is the ZO Sunscreen + Primer SPF 30. This is our choice for daily wear when we are out and about—but want to prevent aging while looking fab. This sunscreen smoothes the look of fine lines and visible pores for a flawless, matte complexion. Beautiful alone or under makeup—the science behind this baby is impressive. A subtle tint and silky matte finish are a bonus.

Good to know: This non-greasy, quick drying sunscreen is Oxybenzone free and is engineered with a time-release complex to shield the skin from UVA, UVB and IR-A rays, as well as HEV light. It is composed of titanium dioxide (a physical block), plus melanin and vitamin E. Perfect for year-round use for the patient who wants the best in anti-aging protection.