Summer Skincare: How Antioxidants Can Supercharge Your Sun Protection
Summer skincare often revolves around a singular hero: sunscreen. While an SPF is a must for protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful rays, it’s not the whole story. Sun exposure, even with sunscreen, can generate free radicals within the skin. These unstable molecules damage skin cells and accelerate signs of ageing. This is where antioxidants come in – powerful allies that can significantly boost your skincare routine during the sunny season (and beyond).
Sunscreen Basics
Sunscreen acts as your skin’s shield against ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Two main types of UV rays affect your skin: UVA and UVB. UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin’s layers, contributing to premature ageing and wrinkles. UVB rays are responsible for sunburn and can damage the skin’s DNA, potentially increasing the risk of skin cancer.
Sunscreen comes in two types: mineral and chemical. Mineral sunscreens, containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, sit on top of the skin and physically reflect UV rays. Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, which is then released from the skin.
While broad-spectrum sunscreen is a must-have for summer skincare, it’s important to understand its limitations. No sunscreen offers 100% protection. Even sunscreens with a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) allow some UV rays to penetrate the skin. Here’s a breakdown of SPF effectiveness:
- SPF 15: Blocks about 93% of UVB rays
- SPF 30: Blocks about 97% of UVB rays
- SPF 50+: Blocks about 98% of UVB rays
Another factor to consider is sunscreen application. Most people don’t apply sunscreen as generously or as often as they should for optimal protection. Additionally, its effectiveness can be altered by high temperatures – like those encountered at the beach or pool, even if kept in the shade. This is why you need to reapply sunscreen regularly throughout the day and avoid using sunscreen left over from the previous year.
A Formulation Challenge: Why Sunscreens Don't Always Play Nice with Others
While sunscreens are essential for safeguarding your skin, formulating them is no easy task. Both mineral and chemical sunscreens present unique challenges. Every UV filter (either chemical or physical) whether added to another product (makeup or moisturiser etc) or when formulated as a stand-alone makes the final product more unstable.
However, the complexities go beyond the initial formulation. Once a sunscreen formula is approved, manufacturers are often cautious about adding other ingredients, like antioxidants. This is because introducing new elements can disrupt the product, potentially affecting its SPF or protection rating. This is why some sunscreens on the market lack the additional benefits that antioxidants can provide.
How Antioxidants Benefit Your Skin
Sun exposure is a major producer of free radicals, unstable molecules which are the real culprits behind skin ageing. Antioxidants, on the other hand, are the superheroes that combat them. Antioxidants are capable of neutralising and preventing free radicals from wreaking havoc on your skin. This translates to a multitude of benefits for your summer skincare routine:
- Enhanced Sun Protection: Antioxidants act as a secondary defence system, fighting the free radicals that evade sunscreen’s protection.
- Reduced Signs of Ageing: By combating oxidation, antioxidants help reduce wrinkles, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation caused by sun exposure.
- Improved Skin Health: Antioxidants can soothe irritation caused by environmental stress and strengthen the skin’s barrier function, leading to better hydration and overall healthier skin.
Which Antioxidants Are the Best for My Skin?
The world of antioxidants is vast and exciting. There isn’t a single “best” one, but rather hundreds of amazing options, both natural and lab-made that work together with sunscreen to enhance its anti-ageing effects. Here at Twelve Beauty, after extensive research and rigorous testing, we’ve identified two of our plant-based favourites:
- Artemisia Umbelliformis: Found in the alpine regions of Europe, this botanical extract boasts exceptional antioxidant properties. Studies show it possesses 8 times more free-radical-fighting power than pure vitamin C, a long-standing industry favourite but without the associated stability issues. Also, it is gentle and well-tolerated by most skin types.
- Buddleja Davidii: This shrub, also known as the Butterfly Bush, is a treasure trove of antioxidants. Its leaves are packed with flavonoids and phenylethanoids, offering potent protection against UV damage and promoting skin cell health. Buddleja is also known for its calming and antibacterial properties.
Important Note: When choosing skincare products with antioxidants, look for those formulated with traditional, well-studied ingredients from sustainable sources.
Including Antioxidants into Your Summer Skincare Routine
Now that you understand the power of antioxidants, you might be wondering how to incorporate them into your summer skincare routine. Here are some easy and effective ways to achieve this:
- Antioxidant Serums: Apply a serum containing antioxidants underneath your sunscreen. This allows the antioxidants to penetrate the skin’s layers, offering an extra layer of protection.
- Sunscreen with Antioxidants: Some sunscreens are formulated with antioxidants built right in. These offer the convenience of a single product while providing both SPF protection and antioxidant benefits. When choosing a sunscreen with antioxidants, look for one formulated with stable molecules like those mentioned above.
Summer Skincare Must-Haves: Products to Consider
Here are some product recommendations to help you create a summer skincare routine that incorporates both sunscreen and antioxidants:
- Ideal Moisture Level Serum: This lightweight serum contains Buddleja and Artemisia extracts, along with calming Mallow Flower, to provide deep hydration and antioxidant protection. It’s perfect for layering under sunscreen.
- Ideal Rebalancing Level Serum: This oil-free formula harnesses the antioxidant power of Epilobium alongside Buddleja and Artemisia to help regulate sebum production and minimise pores. It’s a great option for oily or combination skin types.
- Ideal Brightening Corrective Serum: This 100% natural serum combines Buddleja, Artemisia, and 10 other botanical extracts to tackle sunspots and other hyperpigmentation concerns. Use it alongside sunscreen to prevent further damage and promote a brighter complexion. Can be used day and night.
- Artemisia Power Protection Moisturiser SPF50+: As mentioned earlier, incorporating antioxidants into sunscreen can be tricky due to stability concerns. However, Artemisia Power Protection Moisturiser SPF50+ breaks the mould. This innovative formula combines the power of both Buddleja and Artemisia. But that’s not all. This innovative formula uses non-nano zinc oxide and titanium dioxide technology, offering a lightweight, non-greasy texture that leaves your skin with a beautiful fresh finish.
Remember: For skin that stays healthier for longer consistency is key. Regardless of the products you choose, ensure you incorporate antioxidants and sunscreen into your daily skincare routine throughout the year, not just during summer.
