Elta MD

the sun and your skin

The sun emits a spectrum of rays that all affect the skin: ultraviolet rays (commonly known as UV rays), visible light (HEV or Blue Light) and infrared rays.

UVA: The Aging Rays
• Penetrate deeply into skin, damaging collagen and cells
• Cause wrinkling, pigmentation and loss of elasticity
• Increase the risk for skin cancer
• Can pass through glass (like office and vehicle windows)
• Are not affected by weather or altitude
• Are present all day, every day of the year

UVB: The Burning Rays
• Mostly affect the outer layer of the skin
• Cause sunburns and tanning, increasing the risk of skin cancer
• Vary with time of day and seasons and are stronger in summer

HEV: High Energy Visible Light (aka Blue Light)
• Natural rays responsible for the blue color of the sky
• Reaches skin every day, whether from the sun or as artificial light from devices
• Can cause skin damage with long-term exposure

IR: Infrared Rays
• Invisible to the human eye but felt as heat
• Can produce free radicals and diminish skin’s natural antioxidant capacity

it all starts with sunscreen

There’s nothing like feeling the warm kiss of sunshine on your cheek. However, unprotected exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause skin cancer and premature skin aging in people of all skin types and tones.

Daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen—one that protects against both UVA and UVB rays—along with other protective measures is shown to significantly reduce the risk of sunburn, skin cancer and early signs of skin aging. It’s the foundation for healthy, beautiful skin.

what sun protection measures are important?

• The American Academy of Dermatology recommends use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF of 30 or higher.1
• Limit time in the sun, especially from 10 am to 4 pm
• Wear protective clothing and sunglasses

Sources: 1 American Academy of Dermatology, October, 2018, aad.org
U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Sunscreen, October, 2018

our not-so-secret ingredient

We formulate all of our sunscreens with Zinc Oxide, a natural mineral that acts like a shield, protecting your skin from the widest range of UVA and UVB rays.

Our Zinc Oxide formulas are designed to be silky and blendable with a transparent fi nish. They’re also photostable, meaning they won’t lose their protective ability in the sun.

But there’s more to love about this mineral than its UV-blocking properties. It’s also known for its anti-inflammatory and healing benefi ts, and it’s safe for pregnant women, children and those with sensitive or acne-prone skin. To learn more about Zinc Oxide, visit our blog at: https://live-freely.eltamd.com