Skincare during the holidays

By Arusha Campbell-Chambers

As we continue to celebrate Christmas, we continue our look at skincare products that help us put our 'best skin forward'. Moisturisers act by reducing water loss from the skin's surface and/or by attracting water to the skin. They can therefore help prevent dryness of the skin and may reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. They may consist of combinations of oil and water, however, some are oil-free.

Some moisturisers contain special added ingredients like sunscreens, retinoids, vitamins, botanicals and minerals that may improve the skin's function. However, some may not reach very deep in the skin to fulfill all the manufacturer's claims on the label. Moisturisers are important in caring for dry skin and can be used morning and evening and reapplied during the day if necessary. Individuals with combination and oily skin types can use oil-free moisturisers at least daily, ideally morning and evening. People with sensitive skin should use moisturisers which are labelled 'hypoallogenic' or 'for sensitive skin' and should ideally use fragrance-free products.

Sunlight contains ultraviolet (UV) rays. Sunscreens are products used to reduce the amount of UVA and UVB that is absorbed by the skin. Ultraviolet radiation is the number one cause of skin cancer, premature ageing of the skin, and uneven pigmentation of the skin. All skin types are vulnerable to these effects, though skin cancer is most common in fairer skin types. Sunscreen should, however, be used by everyone as a part of one's daily skincare regimen. It is also perhaps the most effective topical anti-ageing product ever!

Sunscreens contain ingredients that can be classified as physical sunscreens and/or chemical sunscreens based on how they work. Physical sunscreens form a barrier which reflects or scatters UV rays. They are rarely associated with allergic reactions and so are suited for individuals with sensitive skin. Examples of active ingredients in physical sunscreens include titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.

Chemical sunscreens absorb then scatter UV rays. Some ingredients in chemical sunscreens may cause allergic or irritant skin reactions. Most sunscreens contain a mixture of different types of ingredients. Oil-free or 'non-comedogenic' sunscreens are suited for oily and combination skin types. Some sunscreens contain added 'anti-ageing' ingredients, while some make-up products also contain sunscreen.

Sunscreen labels

The sun protection factor or SPF number on sunscreen labels indicates the ability of a sunscreen to delay the onset of sun-induced skin redness. This number only gives a measure of our protection from UVB. Sunscreens labelled broad spectrum protect against both UVA and UVB. Sunscreen labels have recently been changed to be more informative and accurate.

It is advised that you generously apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with a sun protection factor of at least 30 to all exposed skin and reapply approximately every few hours, even on cloudy days, and after swimming or sweating. Sunscreens and sun-protective behaviour should be practised all year round.

Wishing you and yours a holy, happy and healthy Christmas as you take care of yourself inside and out!

Dr Arusha Campbell-Chambers is a dermatologist and founder of Dermatology Solutions Skin Clinics & Medi-Spas. Email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com