Everyone is aware that wearing sunscreen is essential. It prevents the skin from sun damage and reduces the risk of getting sunburns, age spots, skin cancer, and premature skin aging. However, people always ponder the question, “can sunscreen prevent aging?” the answer is yes. In addition to sunscreen preventing sun damage and sunburns, sunscreen also plays a significant role in keeping the skin youthful, healthy, and wrinkle-free. Take a peek at the guide below for a better understanding.
How Do Sunrays Damage Skin?
Sunrays/UV rays are of two types: UVA and UVB. Both damage the skin due to exposure to the sun. UVA rays are responsible for premature skin aging because they travel deeper into the epidermis layers. UVA rays cross the more profound skin barriers and cause the destruction of collagen and elastin, which is the main thing behind younger skin.
As a response to the damage, the body may try to make more elastin inducing the synthesis of metalloproteinase enzymes. These enzymes may destroy collagen in an attempt to heal and remodel disrupted collagen strands, resulting in skin that is improperly restored. Skin Cancer Foundation states that UV radiations are 90% responsible for the production of free radicals and signs of aging on the skin. Furthermore, UVB radiations are criminal for developing skin cancers and sunburns.
Outside of the Horizon of the Sun
Though solar light is the causative factor of physical aging, HEV and infrared light account for around 10% of the total. HEV, or high-energy visible light or blue light, is the type of light that is emitted through devices such as computers or mobile phones and the sun. The human eye can detect blue light. The human eye can still see this light shining as the sunsets. Infrared light is undetectable and is perceived as heat, similar to that produced by a microwave.
Luckily Infrared light and HEV are not linked with skin cancers. Still, research evidence shows that these forms of light can also contribute to the breakdown of collagen and elastin in the skin. As a result, it can lead to loss of skin elasticity and the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines on the skin.
Stay Young With Sunscreens
Skin experts recommend that incorporating sunscreen into your skincare routine can minimize the damage and oxidative stress caused by sun rays. It aids in preventing skin cancers, it can also help you avoid the indications of photoaging. Countless people believe that sunscreen is the best anti-aging tool for obvious reasons. In addition, the use of the broader spectrum of sunscreen in skincare regimes has been proved to resist photodamage for a reasonable amount of time.
Skincare experts say that a minimum of SPF30 is vital to be present in sunscreen, whereas the broader the SPF, the less sun will cause minor damage. It is also recommended to add mineral sunscreen to your routines, such as sunblock containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These minerals possess a broad spectrum SPF for reducing sun damage. In addition, skin scientists now know that they can fix DNA damage caused by excessive UV exposure because DNA mending enzymes are integrated into some sunscreens. A novel study of 2017 published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology shows that sunscreens can diminish signs of premature aging. More importantly, it can inhibit the menace of Actinic Keratosis, known as AKs, the most common precancer condition caused by chronic UV exposure, which can lead to a lethal form of cancer called Squamous Cell Carcinoma.
However, some ingredients and vitamins can aid in reversing the symptoms of sun damage, such as vitamin C and Vitamin E, which have many antioxidant properties that brighten the skin tone and keep it healthy and young. In addition, Retinol, a skincare superstar, can boost cell regeneration for mature skin to make it fit and youthful. Hyaluronic acid can be the next best friend your skin needs because it is the most gentle ingredient that your skin will love. Also, it keeps the skin super hydrated. The best thing about hyaluronic acid is that people with skin types such as dry skin or sensitive skin can use it, too, as it aids in keeping the skin smooth and plumped.
Choosing the Right Sunscreen
Skin experts always insist on choosing sunscreens with broader SPF with a PA rating of 3 plus (PA+++). PA ratings are typically mentioned on the packaging of sunscreen. The PA rating system was introduced in Japan to notify people about the degree of UVA light protection available in each product. Many makeup brands have incorporated PA in makeup products too. PA+ indicates that your sunscreen or moisturizer affords some UVA protection, PA++ indicates substantial saving, and PA+++ indicates the highest level of security.
In addition, there are two types of sunscreens available in the market. Chemical sunscreens and Mineral sunscreens are not made with the same ingredients, and the latter may include dangerous chemicals.
Chemical Sunscreens
This most common type of sunscreen could damage the overall well-being because the ingredients are absorbed entirely into the skin to combat photodamage. In addition, a few harmful substances include oxybenzone, avobenzone, and octinoxate. Whereas including these ingredients in sunscreens has been approved by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA). However, the organization is still researching the safety of using such substances in chemical sunscreens.
Mineral Sunscreens
Mineral sunscreens have two active ingredients: Zinc oxide and Titanium dioxide. The FDA has already approved that as secure and reliable. Instead of absorbing UV rays, this sunscreen acts as a reflective surface, bouncing the UV light.
To summarize, you should always check the ingredients mentioned on the sunscreen when choosing to buy one and go for broad-spectrum or SPF higher than 30 and a PA+++ rating. Also, do not choose sunscreen if it has toxic chemicals.
COOLA Products
COOLA company was manufactured in Carlsbad, a coastal town a few miles north of San Diego in Southern California. All of the COOLA products are manufactured in the United States of America. Sunscreens and several skincare products are available from this company. They claim that their products are made with natural and organic ingredients and have an eco-friendly formula.
Their products can keep your skin healthy and protected from sun damage minimizing the appearance of aging signs on the skin. They have a particular characteristic of aiding the skin to rejuvenate and maintain skin radiance while also protecting it from environmental irritants. They also help reduce the harmful effects of blue light, smog, and infrared sensitivity. These products are suitable for those who like to hydrate, clarify, and soothe their skin.
What Makes COOLA Products Unique?
The uniqueness of COOLA products is the presence of ingredients like meadowfoam seed oil, prickly pear extract, and raspberry seed oil. These ingredients support the skin barrier against free radicals and oxidative stress. In addition, monoi oil provides natural UV protection to the hair and helps repair dry and brittle hair. Furthermore, their products are vegan-free, cruelty-free, paraben-free, gluten-free, and free from GMOs. Below are the top 4 COOLA products that can help you fight premature skin aging and prevent UV damage.
COOLA Organic Mineral Matte Sunscreen SPF 30
This COOLA organic matte sunscreen is the best option if you require a sunscreen that provides a matte finish with mineral magic. The mattifying formula feels lightweight on the skin, keeps it hydrated, and helps reduce shine, meaning less oil production while retaining its moisture. It is readily available on Amazon and COOLA’s official websites.
Features
COOLA mineral matte sunscreen features:
- Broad-spectrum protection with SPF 30
- Based on mineral ingredients such as Zinc oxide and Titanium dioxide
- Water-resistant characteristic
- It provides sheer and lightweight coverage
- Free from fragrance
- Star ingredients include rosehip seed oil, plankton extract, and shea butter
Let us take a look at its star ingredients.
Rosehip Seed Oil
Rosehips are the rosebush’s fruit. Roses produce vivid reddish-orange, spherical fruit after they die and are left on the shrub. The nutritious fruits are said to have therapeutic properties. Rosehips are said to be packed with Vitamin C. Vitamin C is abundant in antioxidant properties. Studies show that Vitamin C aids the skin in reducing photodamage and has properties to fight free radicals. Vitamin C also aids in the formation of collagen, which aids in the reduction of wrinkles. Finally, vitamin C has improved wound healing and wards off dry skin.
Plankton Extract
Plankton is a very adaptable skincare component. It shields the skin from harmful UV and blue light while preventing allergens and chemicals from invading the skin. In addition, it inhibits the indications of rapid aging skin by decreasing oxidative stress and protecting cell DNA.
Shea Butter
Shea butter is an effective skincare ingredient for moisturizing skin due to its high content of fatty acids and vitamins. Anti-inflammatory and regenerative effects are also found in shea butter. Shea butter can help to condition, tone, and soothe your skin, especially your face. Thanks to fatty acids Omega-3 and Omega-6 in shea butter, they instantly soften and soothe the skin.
Directions for Use
It is ideal for people with combination skin to oily skin. It should be applied on the skin 15 minutes before going into the sun and reapplied every 2 hours.
COOLA Organic Sunscreen SPF 50 Sunblock Spray
This sunscreen spray works by administering four different chemical sunscreen components that, when combined, provide broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection. Antioxidants in the recipe boost safety from harmful toxins while also providing a solid defense against various environmental stressors and oxidative sun damage. It’s perfect for natural sunscreen enthusiasts looking for a substantial SPF to withstand sweat, swimming, and athletics. It retails for $36 on Amazon and COOLA’s websites.
Features
COOLA organic sunscreen spray offers:
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Fragrance-free
- SPF protection 50
- Water-resistant properties
- Packed with antioxidants
- Smooth spray-on application
Also, COOLA organic sunscreen spray features active ingredients such as Aloe vera, Avobenzone 2.9%, Homosalate 4.0%, Octisalate 4.9%, and Octocrylene 9.5%.
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is an ancient ingredient used in skincare and cosmetics. Widely used for sunburn, age spots, etc., it is also known to have healing powers for the skin against many skin conditions. In addition, the presence of this substance aids in protecting your skin against injury.
Fruit Extracts
Antioxidant-rich nutrients such as raspberry seed oil, meadowfoam seed oil, buriti oil, and prickly pear extracts create a powerful shield to defend skin cells from free radicals. As a result, these ingredients increase sun protection and boost the power of SPF.
Protective Chemicals
Avobenzone, Octisalate, Homosalate, and Octocrylene, are these blends of traditional reef-free sunscreen components responsible for providing broad protection from UVA and UVB.
Directions for Use
As written on the product, COOLA organic sunscreen spray should be applied 15minutes before sun exposure. The spray Should be reapplied after every 40 minutes for best results.
COOLA Organic Scalp Spray & Hair Sunscreen Mist SPF 30
Protecting the hair and scalp from sun damage is essential for the skin. This COOLA organic hair and scalp spray have plant-derived antioxidants that aid in freeing the hair from damage and dullness. In addition, it has a unique feature of protecting hair from fading its natural color because of excessive UV exposure. It is readily available on COOLA, Amazon, eBay, etc.
Features
COOLA organic scalp spray and hair sunscreen mist with SPF 30 features:
- It has ingredients that are certified and safe for use
- SPF 30 protection
- It is waterproof
- This sunscreen spray stops UV rays from fading hair color
- Safe for use on color-treated hair
- Lightweight on the skin and leaves no oil residue
- Gluten-free
- Paraben-free
- Vegan product
- Monoi oil strengthens hair and keeps them nourished
- Organic ocean salted scent
This sunscreen spray features active star ingredients such as Gotu Kola Extract, Panthenol, and Monoi Oil.
Gotu Kola Extract
Gotu kola is called a herb of long life and anti-aging. Ancient skin experts say it has properties to heal the skin, improve blood circulation, and keep the skin nourished. In addition, it aids the skin in wearing off toxic environmental stressors that can penetrate the skin layers and cause destruction. Gotu kola also helps retain skin moisture and acts as the best hydrating agent for the skin. Women can achieve dewy-looking skin from higher amounts of H2O contained in skin layers. So far, it is the best ingredient.
Panthenol
Panthenol, also known as Vitamin B5, is derived from pantothenic acid. It can be derived organically from plants and animals. When it is immersed in the body, it transforms into Vitamin B5. Its presence in hair care products can make the hair look shinier, enhances hair strength, and keep them soft. Panthenol also aids in reducing the damage caused by hair styling tools and UV radiation by storing moisture in hair roots.
Monoi Oil
Monoi oil has anti-inflammatory properties for the skin. It also aids in providing nourishment to hair and scalp. In addition, monoi fat has effectively reduced the protein loss from hair caused by damaging factors. In contrast to sunflower and mineral oils, monoi oil has a better affinity for hair receptors. As a result, it can permeate the hair shaft more effectively, leaving them soft and shiny.
Directions for Use
Spray the product on exposed portions of your scalp and hair 15-20 minutes before sun exposure. For better results, sunscreen should be reapplied after 2 hours. It provides water resistance for 80 minutes. This spray sunscreen is safe for use on color-treated hair.
COOLA Organic Radical Recovery After Sun Body Lotion
This organic lotion is ideal for use on the whole body. It claims to have ingredients that provide relief from sunburns, sun damage, and itching skin. In addition, it soothes the skin while giving deep hydration. Quickly get your hands on Amazon, eBay, COOLA, and Ulta beauty products.
Features
COOLA organic radical recovery after sun body lotion features benefits such as:
- The presence of Lavender oil
- The presence of aloe vera soothes sunburns
- Made from certified organic ingredients
- Packed with antioxidants
- Natural lavender scent
- Reef friendly
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan product
It also features ingredients such as Rosemary Extract, Lavender Oil, Organic Agave, and Sunflower Oil.
Rosemary Extract
Rosemary extracts promise to prevent the skin from getting damaged by harmful environmental stress factors and prevent premature skin aging. In addition, its anti-inflammatory properties can give relief from acne and eczema.
Vitamin Boosters
These Vitamin and antioxidant-rich ingredients, such as Lavender oil and sunflower oil, aid the skin from getting permanent damage from excessive sun exposure. These oils are rich in Vitamin A and Vitamin E that are known to have high moisture content. Lavender oil can also help the skin fight free radicals that are accountable for fine lines and wrinkles on the skin. In addition, vitamin A and Vitamin E-rich sunflower oil help the skin to keep moisture locked.
Organic Agave
Organic agave is derived from the Agave plant. In ancient medicine, Agave Nectar is known as the ‘Nectar of Gods.’ Old Aztec people used this herb to help soothe the skin from minor abrasions and burns. It has various beneficial properties for the skin. It provides deep hydration levels to the skin, making it appear softer and plumped and brightening the skin complexion. In addition, it is the best exfoliant for people with sensitive skin.
Directions for Use
It is suggested to use in morning and night skincare routines for providing deep hydration to the skin. In addition, COOLA radical recovery lotion should be used after a day in the sun to provide a calming effect on the skin.