With the Pacific Northwest’s unique blend of urban charm and natural beauty, Seattle residents have countless reasons to spend time outdoors. Yet, whether you’re exploring the lush landscapes of the Pacific Northwest or simply enjoying a sunny day in the city, protecting your skin is paramount.
Incorporating a quality sunscreen into your daily routine is not just about preventing sunburn; it’s a critical step in a holistic skin care regimen. Regular use of sunscreen, particularly on the face, hands, and other frequently exposed areas, can significantly reduce visible signs of aging, such as wrinkles and sunspots. Moreover, for patients undergoing certain non-surgical aesthetic procedures—especially laser and light treatments, such as BBL® HERO™ or Halo™ hybrid fractional laser resurfacing—a quality sunscreen is vital, since these treatments can temporarily enhance your skin’s sensitivity.
At our Seattle-based skin care clinic, KMP Aesthetics, we understand the significance of sunscreen in maintaining skin health and supporting long-term anti-aging efforts. Below, our knowledgeable experts offer guidance on how to select a quality product that is tailored to your unique skin and lifestyle needs:
- Broad Spectrum Protection: First and foremost, look for sunscreens that offer broad-spectrum protection. This means they protect against both UVA rays, which age the skin, and UVB rays, which burn it. Broad-spectrum sunscreens ensure that your skin is shielded from the full range of harmful sunlight, crucial for preventing premature aging and lowering the risk of skin cancer.
- SPF Value: SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, measures how well a sunscreen can protect the skin from UVB rays. We recommend using a sunscreen with at least SPF 30, which blocks about 97% of UVB rays. Higher SPF values offer slightly more protection, but no sunscreen can block 100% of UVB rays.
- Water Resistance: For patients who enjoy outdoor activities, water-resistant sunscreen is a must. Whether you’re kayaking on Lake Union or hiking in the Cascades, a water-resistant formula will ensure your sunscreen stays effective longer, even while sweating or swimming. Remember, reapplication every two hours is key, especially after toweling off or sweating.
- Skin Type Considerations: Tailor your sunscreen choice to your skin type. For oily or acne-prone skin, look for non-comedogenic formulas that won’t clog pores. If you have sensitive skin, mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are less likely to cause irritation. Our clinic can help you identify your skin type and recommend the most suitable sunscreen options during a personalized consultation.
- Consider Investing in Medical-Grade Skin Care: While any sunscreen is better than none, not all products are created equally. Our online store features a number of scientifically-proven skin care products that have been handpicked by our staff for maximum effectiveness. During a consultation, we can help you select the optimal sunscreen for your skin type and lifestyle.
At KMP Aesthetics, we’re dedicated to helping our patients achieve and maintain healthy, radiant skin. Embracing the use of quality sunscreen is fundamental in this journey. Protect your skin today to enjoy its timeless beauty tomorrow. Contact KMP Aesthetics today to learn more about skin care and the comprehensive selection of non-surgical aesthetic treatments we offer.