Yes to a tanned complexion in complete safety!
Whether it's windy, rainy, hot or cold, our skin knows how to adapt to defend itself and play its role as a waterproof barrier thanks to the continuous production of a hydrolipidic film and the organization of 'a well-sealed “wall” of paving stones. Under the influence of the sun, it has also developed its small defense mechanisms to play a photo-protective role in our cells. In fact, it immediately activates the production of melanin which diffracts and absorbs light and creates a shield effect that protects the cell nucleus and neutralizes UV oxidation. All of this well-established mechanism is a first defensive reaction for the skin, but it is not enough on its own to provide a global response to the action of solar radiation and even less in the event of overexposure. So how does our skin react to heat and then to the sun, which still has beneficial effects that should not be underestimated?
How our skin reacts to heat
When the temperature rises, our body will react in two possible ways to regain its thermal balance, namely the way of perspiration either the way of sweating.
In the first case, you may lose up to 1 / 2l of water per day without realizing it. It is the continuous insensitive evaporation, a normal and natural effect of the body, that explains the reason for always drinking.
In the second case, it is simply the sweating which will be more or less important depending on the exposure to heat, physical exertion and emotion. Depending on the activity of your sweat glands, you may be able to eliminate up to 1l of water per day. In particular on the palm hands and the soles of the feet which for the record have no pores!
In the case of the face, these phenomena clog the pores and prevent the proper absorption of your skincare or sunscreen products. It is therefore recommended to purify and cleanse your skin morning and evening and to apply a mask. The masks, in particular those with clay, are strongly recommended because clay exchange its minerals against toxins released by perspiration.
The beneficial reactions of the sun on the skin
Indeed, we will start with the positive notes and not the least! UV radiation allows the synthesis of vitamin D which is extremely beneficial and even essential for the strength of our bones and our skeleton. The sun is also a source of heat and energy for our bodies. It is an anti-depressant, a mood regulator that brightens our days. Phototherapy helps to treat certain pathologies such as psoriasis, eczema atopic or infant jaundice. It has an effective action against bacteria and it gives us that magnificent tanned complexion for which we are ready to travel thousands of kilometers in the middle of winter.
The harmful consequences of the sun on the skin
The most common of course is sunburn, which you might find scientifically known as actinic erythema. It is caused primarily by UVB rays and to a lesser extent by UVA rays, the reaction on the skin can range from simple inflammation to second degree burns.
We can also have photosensitization to foreign molecules. Some medications don't mix well with the sun and can lead to pimples, itching, and even pigmentation spots. Remember to read the leaflet of your medication before exposing yourself.
There is of course the phenomenon of more or less intense photoaging of the skin depending on the intensity of exposure to UV rays. This phenomenon starts with skin inflammation with redness or even itching. The epidermis becomes dry and wrinkled and age spots appear. At a more advanced level and in case of overexposure, the dermis is affected, the capillaries - small, very thin blood vessels - dilate, elastin and collagen fibers break down. The skin becomes dull, loses all its elasticity and liveliness with the formation of "sunburns cells" Cells destroyed by UV.
In the long term, the most feared effect of overexposure to the sun is the onset of the serious skin cancer called malignant melanoma. Rest assured, we know that you are attentive to your skin and looking for advice on how to make the most of this beautiful star anyway. Here are some good practices to help you prepare your skin for sun exposure.
The secrets of a skin ready to welcome and make your tan last
Before exposure, exfoliate, but be careful, this will be beneficial as long as you practice them gently with a light hand. Go for very gentle exfoliators. Exfoliation makes it possible to obtain a smooth surface with a superficial layer of the skin comprising "units" of approximately the same "age" and therefore allow good penetration of the treatments and sunscreens – not less than SPF 50 - and also help reactivate cell renewal. Your skin will thus be well hydrated, well prepared to attack pigmentary disorders and inflammation. During this period, especially avoid all irritants such as fruit acids or vitamin A acid.
During the exhibition, it's war, the defense mechanisms will be at the peak of their action to fight against the radiation. Hence the need to apply maximum sun protection against UVA and UVB rays. If you want more details about the different types of UV and their effects, we invite you to read our article "the tan: keep only the best!". For information, the terminology“ Water resistant/ water resistant ”does not mean waterproof. No sun protection is waterproof and / or sweat proof. Be sure to reapply your sunscreen every time you get out of the bath after a fresh water rinse.
After exposure, it's time to repair, pamper your skin, opt for anti-inflammatory, soothing, moisturizing and restorative treatments. Drink, drink, drink and pamper without counting, now is the time!
