Attention gentlemen, this one's for the boys! While many women are asking themselves if they should apply sunscreen before or after makeup, most men are still considering the idea of suncare altogether. While the sun may be your constant companion for outdoor escapades, it can also pose a threat to your skin. The damaging effects of sun exposure do not discriminate based on gender, and men are equally vulnerable to its harmful rays. Prolonged sun exposure can result in sunburn, premature aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer. However, it is often overlooked by men who assume that their thicker skin provides sufficient protection. Read on as we break down the basics of sun damage, why sunscreen is essential for men’s skincare, and how to include SPF in your daily life.
HOW DOES THE SUN DAMAGE OUR SKIN?
While men's skin may be denser and contain more collagen than women’s, it remains susceptible to UV damage. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun penetrates deep into skin's layers causing damage at a cellular level. UVA rays penetrate the skin more deeply, leading to long-term damage like premature aging, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity. On the other hand, UVB rays primarily affect the skin's surface, causing sunburns and increasing the risk of skin cancer.
Together, these rays contribute to the breakdown of collagen and elastin, essential proteins responsible for maintaining the skin's firmness and suppleness. Additionally, UV radiation generates free radicals, unstable molecules that can damage DNA and disrupt normal cell function. The result? Sun-damaged skin that showcases signs of aging, pigmentation issues, and an increased susceptibility to skin cancer.
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HOW DOES SUNSCREEN PROTECT OUR SKIN?
Sunscreen creates a protective barrier between skin and the sun. It contains active ingredients that absorb or scatter UV radiation, preventing it from penetrating deep into the skin. SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is a measure of a sunscreen's effectiveness in blocking UVB rays. The higher the SPF, the greater the protection.
SPF not only helps prevent painful sunburns but also reduces the risk of long-term damage like premature aging and skin cancer. Applying sunscreen with a broad-spectrum protection, which shields against both UVA and UVB rays, is key. Studies actually indicate that men face a higher risk of developing skin cancer due to their infrequent use of sunscreen and limited visits to dermatologists. Which is why it is imperative for men to elevate their skincare regimen to embrace sunscreen.
HOW TO INCORPORATE SPF INTO A MEN’S SKINCARE ROUTINE?
The sun doesn’t discriminate based on gender when it comes to damaging skin. Luckily though, neither do Lancôme sunscreens and SPF skincare. Using them is easy. If you want to keep things super simple, you should at least opt for a moisturizer with SPF for men, but we recommend going for a full-on sunscreen. UV Expert Aqua Gel is a beauty basic for men that you can easily make a morning habit.
Take a look at UV Expert Supra Screen SPF 50+ too. It’s the superhero your men’s skincare routine needs. UV Expert Supra Screen SPF 50+ combines our highest level of hydrophilic filters in an invisible UV serum formula for very high protection against UVA, XL UVA, UVB, and pollution to prevent signs of photo-aging. Its patented formula can defeat photo-aging in just one month. In addition, if you’re seeing signs of photoaging (wrinkles, dark spots, dullness, sagging, etc) you can do more with your men’s skincare to treat them. Consider an all around serum like Advanced Génfique to strengthen your skin and fight these sighs, or Absolue The Serum for extra anti-aging advantages.
