At Van Lennep Clinic, we take our skin health very seriously. Sun protection is an important factor in keeping the skin healthy. Most people think that SPF is only necessary in the summer, but nothing could be further from the truth. Fleur, one of our skin therapists, explains to you today why using SPF in autumn is so important.
Fleur: “As a skin therapist, I regularly get asked whether protecting the skin in autumn and winter is really that important? And the answer is: absolutely!”
Of course, the sun's power (also known as the UV index) and the hours of sunshine per day decrease significantly in autumn, yet the sun's harmful radiation is still present. This harmful radiation is UVA radiation and it penetrates deeper, even through clouds and glass. As a result, sun protection is still crucial on grey and rainy days.
The UVA radiation has a negative effect on the skin and causes skin aging such as pigmentation, lines, wrinkles and sagging. And because prevention is better than cure, I recommend everyone to stay comfortable all year round
Now there is often the question whether enough vitamin D is still produced by the skin when there is so little sun and the skin is also covered with a layer of protection. Luckily, that's not something to worry about.
This is because vitamin D production in the skin is mainly stimulated by UVB radiation. In addition, we often produce enough vitamin D in the summer to get through the winter months. Finally, there is also the option to supplement your vitamin D with supplements in consultation with a doctor.
Do you want personal advice on the use of sun protection or do you want to expand your protocol with a good SPF? Feel free to schedule a free consultation with Fleur or one of our other skin therapists. You can also visit one of our clinics without an appointment for expert advice from our front office staff.