:: The Spa provides more reasons to shun the sun

We are all very familiar with the important consequences of long-term unprotected sun exposure. However, this knowledge is not always heeded.  We should protect ourselves, year-round, from over exposure to the sun's harmful rays.

Spa treatments now give us all even more reason to shun the sun. The exposure to sun makes the skin more sensitive and more likely to react adversely to most spa treatments and products. 

Most medical spas will advise to always avoid sun exposure before any laser or ILP treatments. It is recommended to avoid the sun for four to six weeks before and after treatments and to use sunscreen regularly. Clients are also advised to stay out of the sun for the entire course of the laser hair removal treatments - which may mean a period of 10 to 14 weeks.

Following facial peels, waxing and aromatherapy, stay out of the sun.  Retin-A and other chemical peels remove the top layer of skin and make the skin especially vulnerable to sunburn and sun damage.  Even after waxing, although skin may appear normal, it has been treated with products and will be sensitive.  Some of the oils and herbs used in aromatherapy treatments can make some people more sensitive to sunlight. 

Many spa treatments are designed to correct sun damage - removing freckles, fine lines and wrinkles - paying for these should be a great incentive to stay out of the sun and spend the funds on more therapeutic spa treatments like a relaxing body massage, hand and foot therapy and yoga, to name just a few.  It is always a good idea to get advise from the spa aesthetician about sun exposure in connection with your specific spa treatments.

Sun Safety Year- Round:

Q: What are the effects of sun overexposure?

A: Ultraviolet rays (URV) can cause skin health issues that include premature aging, abnormal pigmentation problems, reduced immune response and, of course, cancers such as melanoma.

Q: What is melanoma?

A: A melanoma is a cancerous (malignant) tumor that begins in the melanocyte cells that produce pigment in the skin.  They are found in the bottom of the epi-dermal layer. 

Q: How can I reduce the risk of developing melanoma?

A: Prevention is the key.  Know what you can do to avoid melanoma, follow the precautions regarding sun exposure, check of new or changing moles and visit a dermatologist if you find any.

Q: How do sunscreens work?

A: Sunscreens are formulated with unique chemicals components to absord Ultraviolet A (UVA) and Ultraviolet B (UVB). They use titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to block the sun's rays physically or absorbent ingredients that easily absorb the UV rays.  Some sunscreen products use a combination of the two. 

Q: How much SPF is enough?

A: The SPF rating was developed to describe the amount of protection that a sunscreen provides.  The higher the SPF number, the more protection provided.

A recommeded SPF of 15 for daily use and an SPF of at least 30 for outdoor activies such as golf or hiking. 

Don't be part of the rising skin-cancer statistics. There are plenty of options to keep your skin healthy and protected .  In addition to sunscreens, make hats and cover-up clothing part of your everyday wardrobe. 

Your skin will thank you for it - year after year.

Links and References:

http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/iyh-vsv/life-vie/sun_soleil_e.html#ho

http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/iyh-vsv/life-vie/sun_soleil_e.html#mi

http://www.msc-smc.ec.gc.ca/education/uvindex/introduction_e.html

http://www.msc-smc.ec.gc.ca/education/uvindex/protecting_yourself_e.html