Several studies have been carried out in response to world leaders and the WHO questioning if the wearing of face masks effectively slows the spread of Covid-19.
It has been claimed the wearing surgical masks can Lower Covid-19 spread, and significantly reduce the chances of those with COVID-19 infecting others in their immediate vicinity.
Hong Kong Study On Face Masks:
According to a study in Hong Kong, the rate of transmission of Covid-19 through airborne particles or respiratory droplets lowered by approximately 75% when face masks were used.
“The findings implied to the world, and the public is that the effectiveness of mask-wearing against the coronavirus pandemic is vast.” A leading microbiologist Dr. Yuen Kwok-yung, from Hong Kong University who helped identify the SARS virus in 2003, stated the study was the first of its kind.
Dr. Yuen said that his team conducted the study because he has long supported wearing masks. However, world leaders, including the World Health Organisation (WHO), had questioned their efficiency.
The study saw his team use two cages containing hamsters in different scenarios in a laboratory.
One group of hamsters was infected with COVID-19, and the other group was healthy. A fan was then used to circulate air around the infected animals – some of which did not show symptoms.
Researchers said they found that two-thirds of the healthy hamsters were infected within a week without any masks between the cages.
But when they situated masks on the cage with infected animals, the infection rate dropped to just over 15%.
The infection rate dropped by around 35% when masks were situated on the healthy hamsters’ cage.
The research found hamsters that became infected were found to have less of the virus in their bodies than those who became infected without a mask placed on their cage.
Dr. Yuen told a press conference: “In our hamster experiment, it shows very clearly that if infected, hamsters or humans, asymptomatic or symptomatic, the ones who ‘wear’ masks, protected others around them.”
“That’s the most robust result we showed here. Transmission can be reduced by 50% when surgical masks are used, especially when infected individuals wear masks.”
“Up to this stage, we do not have a safe and effective vaccine. What remains practical is still either social-distancing measures or wearing masks.”
Re-Use Surgical Masks:
Some masks can be re-used, but cleaning them is very important. One way to do this is by ‘steam cleaning.’ Boil a sauce pan of water and find a way to hold your mask over the steaming water for 10 minutes, do not let the mask become saturated. (see photo )It needs to be ‘air-dried’ thoroughly afterward. Once a mask is visibly damaged or badly soiled, dispose of it safely.
One method of steam cleaning Surgical Mask
Video showing the benefits of wearing a face mask to combat Coronavirus.
UK Government Advice On – Wearing Surgical Masks Can Lower COVID-19 Spread
The UK government initially said the wearing of face masks could not protect people. Scientists provide advice to the government, ministers ultimately decide. Still, it has revised its guidance and is now recommending people wear face coverings.
This advice is recommended for people who cannot remain two metres apart in settings such as small shops and public transport. Transport For London had also advised those still reliant on buses and the Tube network to wear face masks.
European countries, including Germany and Italy, have said people should wear masks in such public settings. Tourists will be expected to wear masks in shops and on public transport and taxis will only take two people at a time.
At the outset of the pandemic, which started in China, there was a scramble to buy face masks in Hong Kong, where people recollect the SARS impact. Sadly Hong Kong suffered 298 deaths from SARS, second only to mainland China. The territory has so far only reported four fatalities from COVID-19 (at the date of publishing).
People walking around without a face mask in Hong Kong, Japan, or North Korea is seen as irresponsible. Several US states are now advising people to wear them when out.
Men are more likely than women to view the wearing of a face mask as ‘shameful’ and not ‘cool’ and that the wearing of a face-covering is a sign of ‘weakness.’ Also, men are more likely to express negative emotions and stigma when wearing a face-covering mask.
It is thought that men are less likely to wear face masks when in public to protect against COVID-19 because it is a ‘sign of ‘weakness.’ Researchers established that more men than women believe that wearing a face mask is ‘shameful’ and not ‘cool,’ this came from a survey of 2,459 people living in the USA.
Participants were asked if they intended to wear a face mask outside the home, engaging in social activities and when around people from another household. The findings revealed that men were less willing to wear a face mask outside the home than women.
It was found that women were more likely to wear face masks during essential activities than men. The study also found that men have fewer intentions to wear a face-covering than women, especially in countries where the wearing of face-covering is not mandatory.
Research does show that both men and women were more willing to wear masks if they live in countries where the law stated they had to.
One reason men are less inclined to wear a face-covering is that they believe that they will be less affected by Covid-19 than women. That is contradicting because official statistics show that coronavirus impacts men more seriously than women.
Preventive Measures for COVID-19 Disease According To WHO:
Based on current evidence, the COVID-19 virus is transmitted between people through close contact and droplets. Airborne transmission may occur during aerosol-generating procedures and support treatments (e.g., tracheal intubation, non-invasive ventilation, tracheotomy, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, manual ventilation before intubation, bronchoscopy)1; thus, WHO recommends airborne precautions for these procedures.
For all, the most effective preventive measures include:
maintaining physical distance (a minimum of 1metre) from other individuals;
performing hand hygiene frequently with an alcohol-based hand rub if available and if your hands are not visibly dirty or with soap and water if hands are dirty;
avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth;
practicing respiratory hygiene by coughing or sneezing into a bent elbow or tissue and then immediately disposing of the tissue;
wearing a medical mask if you have respiratory symptoms and performing hand hygiene after disposing of the mask;
routine cleaning and disinfection of environmental and other frequently touched surfaces. Source: who.int
Your Thoughts On Wearing Face Masks?
Have you considered wearing face-masks when out in public? If you have, have you encountered problems with buying face masks? Have you had to resort to making your face mask, do you feel as safe going out using a homemade face mask? Please leave any comments or questions below, and I will be happy to discuss them with you.
Face masks have become part of the ‘new’ everyday uniform around the world following the recommendation from health authorities that people wear them in public. But merely wearing one doesn’t necessarily mean you’re protected ― or protecting anyone else.
Simple Mistakes People Make When Using Face Masks:
The purpose of wearing face masks is to help prevent you from accidentally spreading or catching an infectious disease that, like COVID-19, it is spread through respiratory droplets primarily.
It is estimated that 25% of people infected with the novel coronavirus may not be experiencing any symptoms. And it is for this reason people are now encouraged to wear masks to protect others when they are out in the community.
Knowing that some asymptomatic people could spread the virus before they have symptoms. We now need to live our lives with the view that anyone you meet could potentially infect you. That is the awful reality of this pandemic.
To stop the spread of COVID-19, and avoid infecting yourself, you need to follow essential guidelines when putting on your mask and avoid making these consequential yet straightforward mistakes.
When worn correctly, N95 respirators, the type that doctors use, they are fitted closely to the face. Whether you are using a surgical mask or a homemade mask, you may have the sides away from the cheeks, which are open and fitting too loosely. You do not want the mask to ‘bulge’ out in this way.
The objective is to create a barrier, to keep out as much air/virus as possible. You are not going to achieve a flawless seal when wearing a surgical mask or with a homemade mask. You aim to make it fit as tight as possible and secure enough to not slide down the face.
It also needs to be comfortable on your face. You may have to wear it for many hours, depending on your workplace.
Surgical masks tend to have a bit of gap on the sides, and around the nose, people need to do their best to tighten and close these spaces with the straps or metal strips across the nose where fitted.
A problem for men is if they have facial hair/beards. It can be a hinder to masks from fitting close to the skin. A recommendation for people with beards is to trim them close to their faces or consider shaving them off while the pandemic is spreading. The ‘fuller’ and ‘fluffier’ the beard is, the mask will lose its optimal functionality.
If you cover just the tip of your nose, it’s going to leave air gaps on the top of your mask where contaminated air can go in and out. That’s why its recommended that the mask sits high up on your nose and not the tip.
Your Face Mask Covers Your Mouth Only:
Make sure face mask is fitted securely around the bridge of the nose
If you are wearing your mask too low, so it only covers your mouth, I’m afraid that’s incorrect. You risk becoming infected yourself or making someone else unwell. Some people breathe partially or entirely through the nose; this is one way you can become infected by breathing in viral particles.
Similarly, if you are infected and sneeze with the mask covering the mouth only, you generate respiratory droplets that spread and can contaminate people who are nearby.
If the mask does not cover your nose, you also risk contamination from the mask itself, which is, in effect, collecting germs and droplets on its exterior throughout the day. Cross-contamination could occur from the mask through the nose and into the body as it rubs against the nostrils.
The Mask Comes In Contact With Your Body Or Other Items:
Imagine if the coronavirus is on your hair, forehead, chin, neck, hands, body, or clothes. You then touch these areas with the inside of the mask before fitting it, this now creates a real danger of self-contamination.
If any of these areas are contaminated and then place the mask against the nose and mouth area, the nose has vulnerable mucous membranes – infection can occur. Self-awareness is essential at all times.
Another mistake is to leave it resting on your neck when not on your face.
The mask shouldn’t be around your neck if you’ve already been wearing it. If there was any contamination attached to the mask, you don’t want it coming into contact with the neck area. You may then touch that area with your hand and put it near your eyes, nose, or mouth and risk infecting yourself.
The whole purpose of wearing the face mask is to protect your nose and mouth and to protect others from any coughs or sneezes from droplets.
When you put on and take off a mask, you also need to be careful not to touch the front of the mask. Please do not touch the mask itself, remove the mask by holding the ear loops, ties or elastic that is attached too it.
When you remove the mask, you should place it in a secure bag (mark name on bag) or separate containment area. By doing this, you prevent contamination too or from other sites, and do NOT leave the mask hanging around your neck.
Always Remember to wash your hands or use a hand sanitiser before you put a face mask on, and after you take it off.
Caution should be taken so as not to ‘cross’ contaminate when storing masks for re-use
Clean Your Mask Properly If You Need To Re-use It:
If you are planning to reuse your mask (as many will need to as they are not easy to purchase), you need to make sure it does not become another contamination zone.
To be extra safe, I would recommend you wash them every day. Homemade fabric masks can go in the washing machine to ensure they are safe to wear in your daily activities.
Medical experts have said that N95/FFP3 masks can be steam cleaned. You can do this by placing the mask over a pot of boiling water for about 10 minutes, do not let the mask become saturated. It needs to be ‘air-dried’ thoroughly afterward. Once a mask is visibly damaged or badly soiled, safely dispose of it.
A research team in China published a study in the ‘Journal of Medical Virology’ on using steam effectively to sanitize surgical masks and N95 respirators.
The sanitization process, which used avian coronavirus of infectious bronchitis virus to mimic the new coronavirus, was simple. Contaminated masks were placed in plastic bags and steamed over boiling tap water in a kitchen pot.
“The avian coronavirus was completely inactivated after being steamed for 5 minutes,” wrote the Chinese researchers, who conducted the study at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China.
The effectiveness of the masks was unaffected by exposure to steam as long as two hours, the Chinese researchers wrote. “In this study, mask decontamination with steam on boiling water is without abrasive physical or chemical action. This can account for its excellent performance in maintaining the masks’ blocking efficacy.”
In addition to not damaging the masks, the steam treatment has other benefits, they wrote. “This measure has other advantages including safety, not requiring special agents or devices, and rapid inactivation of most microbes potentially attached to the surface of masks.”
Have you had problems with buying face masks? Have you had to resort to making your face mask, do you feel as safe going out using a homemade face mask? Please leave any comments or questions below, and I will be happy to discuss them with you.
Hand sanitiser, this is a subject that seems to be on everyone’s mind in the never ending daily fight against Covid-19. People are searching for answers, what makes medical-grade hand gel, how to make your own, are hand wipes as effective as a gel? We reveal what matters in the fight to keep your hands clean and protect against COVID-19.
Hand Sanitiser – Gels and Wipes: What You Should Know:
We are all now hyper-aware of hand hygiene due to the coronavirus pandemic. Still, there is some confusion about exactly what works best on removing the virus from your hands, and why? We know that trying to find alcohol-based hand gel is like looking for moondust at the moment! Does it matter the type of hand gel or soap you buy, and what options do you have if you’re struggling to get hold of these products?
The reason soap and alcohol gel work against Coronavirus is to do with the type of virus we are dealing with called COVID-19. It is an ‘enveloped’ virus, and what this means is that the RNA (nucleic acid – the viral genetic material) coated in a lipid (fatty) layer. Soap can dissolve this lipid layer, causing the virus to fall apart and stopping it from binding to our cells. Using an alcohol-based hand sanitiser works in a similar way, deactivating the virus by breaking down the lipid layer.
Keep in mind that hand sanitiser isn’t the ‘be-all and end-all’ of hygiene. If like millions of people around the world now you are mostly staying at home, hand washing is the best option.
With hand sanitiser, you have probably seen it written that you need at least alcohol content of 60% for a hand sanitiser to work and kill the Coronavirus. You can buy hand sanitisers with varying degrees of alcohol content. The level of alcohol required for it to work and inactivate most types of viruses, including COVID-19, is between 60-95%.
You will find that most alcohol-based hand sanitiser gels contain one or more alcohols in them. And they include Ethanol, Isopropanol – or a combination of the two. You can check the ingredients label to see how much it contains.
The well-known High St brand ‘Carex’ has one of the highest alcohol content, from the information on the label it states: Carex hand gel – contains 70% alcohol. Cuticura hand gel – includes 66% Ethanol.* Dettol hand gel – has 63% Ethanol.
*If you have a Cuticura hand sanitiser, you might notice that on the label it says it contains 56.7% Ethanol. Cuticura state this is the value by weight, this converts to 66% ethanol by volume (the important measure), and above the 60% minimum requirement.
One of the downfalls of hand sanitiser is that it doesn’t work as well on sweaty, greasy, or visibly dirty hands. You need to use a lot to cover the entire surface of your hands thoroughly. Another problem people find with repeated use of alcohol-based hand sanitiser can irritate your skin, too, despite many containing moisturising agents.
Do Alcohol-free Hand Sanitisers Work?
Alcohol-free hand sanitisers are usually in the form of foam. They can be less severe on the skin, but, on the downside, there isn’t as much scientific evidence supporting their action against some viruses, including Coronavirus.
The alcohol-free hand sanitisers commonly contain ingredients such as Chlorhexidine Digluconate or Benzalkonium Chloride.
A study recently in the Journal of Hospital Medicine (March 2020) found these ingredients not as adequate at deactivating viruses similar to COVID-19 (although the study looked at surfaces, not hands).
These ingredients seem to work better against bacteria and viruses such as norovirus. Reemphasizing it is ‘alcohol, detergents, hydrogen peroxide, extremes of pH and bleach that inactivate COVID-19’.
How Does Medical-Grade Hand Sanitiser Differ – Do I Need It?
Medical grade sanitisers, such as Defendol, generally have around 70% alcohol. A product like Defendol will be tested to show specific pathogen-killing efficacy relevant to hospital settings. The average person shouldn’t need to use this grade sanitiser, as standard alcohol gels are sufficient so long as you keep in mind to wash your hands regularly!
Hospitals, care homes, and general medical environments understandably need added protection. They will need products that have been certified for these high-risk environments, so it’s best to leave this for those who need it.
Can You Make Your Own Hand Sanitiser?
You can, in theory, make your sanitiser by mixing 3/4 of a cup of rubbing alcohol with 1/4 of a cup of aloe vera, but it’s not that desirable. The reason being is that anything homemade is not ‘laboratory validated’ to the standard of retail hand sanitisers. And importantly, you would need to ensure you use sterilized containers and source some Isopropyl or rubbing alcohol.
Either of these is 99% proof, so a bottle of vodka from your local store won’t do the trick! And like other raw ingredients associated with popular Coronavirus products, it’s challenging to find or to purchase anyway.
The critical thing to remember is to wash your hands after contact with the outside world. At all costs, avoid touching your face or face mask if you wear one before you have washed your hands thoroughly.
Are Antibacterial Wipes As Effective As Hand Sanitiser?
Some pharmacy chains have been pointing their customers to stocks of antibacterial wipes when their hand gel stocks run out. But is it the same thing?
Hand wipes tend to have less alcohol in them, and more antibacterial compounds in them. These are Benzalkonium Chloride found in ‘Wet Ones’ as well as water and wetting agents such as detergent and surfactant.
Before you purchase the wipes, you should check the range of pathogens the wipe is active against; this can find this on the back of the packet or checking the active ingredients online. These type of hand wipes, and antiseptic creams such as Savlon or Germolene, are more ‘antibacterial’ than ‘antiviral.’ They are designed to work on the skin where bacteria are (usually) the main skin pathogens.
Using a Hand Sanitiser, alongside washing your hands regularly for at least 20 seconds, can help you and your family stay clean and protected. Practicing good hygiene can begin with a hand gel kept in your bag for when you’re out and about. Being able to clean your hands when you have no access to soap, hand wash, or water is easy with antibacterial hand gel. When you’re at work, a larger hand sanitiser gel can be kept at your desk or workstation ready for when you need it. Using Antibacterial gel can kill up to 99.9% germs, helping you to stop spreading germs to those around you.
Do you have any other tips for caring for your hands, or a particular hand sanitiser you find protects your hands and skin? Please leave any comments or questions below, and I will be happy to discuss them with you.
No doubt you have seen and heard The Department of Health & Social Care, and the World Health Organisation frequently advising us to wash our hands or use hand sanitizer gels in a bid to stop the spread of COVID-19. The problem you will get from excessive hand washing and using hand sanitiser is that your hands become dry, sore and irritated.
Keeping Your Hands Healthy During A Pandemic – Stop The Spread:
Frequent hand washing is crucial in the fight to stop the spread of the Coronavirus. However, this can lead to damage to the outermost layer of skin (the stratum corneum) if we don’t take supplementary measures. We must all keep our hands clean and free from the virus but, remember to protect the skin at the same time. If you continue to keep the hands clean but don’t look after the surface, you could end up with dry, damaged skin.
It’s essential to keep the skin nourished, so it’s there as an effective barrier. To help you keep your hands healthy, we’ve looked into the most suitable hand cream ingredients and what they do. We also offer tips for looking after your hands, so that the surface continues to appear young and elegant, and keeping your hands healthy during a Pandemic.
How Hand Cream Works:
We all know how general wear and tear leaves the skin on our hands feeling like cardboard by the end of the day. Another of the leading causes of dehydrated hands is when they are exposed to the elements. When you add to this to the increased, and hopefully by now, regular washing, it can cause severe dryness and irritation. The use of a good quality hand cream will help to restore and protect the skin, leaving it feeling moisturized and hydrated.
If you are applying hand moisturizer throughout the day, you do not want your hands to feel greasy so that you can’t even pick up a pen! Look for a hand cream that hydrates but soaks into the skin that allows you can pick up items without them slipping through your fingers!
Here you will find the different ingredients in a typical hand cream that should keep your skin nourished and healthy. We also advise on how to look after your hands while Coronavirus is widespread.
Humectants are one of the three crucial ingredients you’ll find in hand moisturizer, along with occlusives and emollients. The way they work by drawing water from the air and into the skin. Glycerine is a common humectant. It has three hydrophilic (water-loving) alcohol endings, and why it attracts water so effectively.
It also provides skincare products such as hand creams, a soft, creamy skin-feel – although too much of it can be a bad thing and make a product feel sticky. Other humectants you find in hand creams include butylene glycol, urea, sorbitol, honey, aloe vera, sea salt (Maris sal), and wheat proteins.
Occlusives form a protective ‘physical’ barrier on the surface of the skin to seal water in and prevent it from evaporating or ‘extracted’ by secondary factors such as the cold, wind, or frequent hand-washing. They can also leave the skin feeling greasy and heavy on the surface (petroleum jelly is a good example).
Dimethicone is a popular synthetic occlusive that provides an effective barrier without feeling ‘heavy’ on the skin. It allows a hand cream to feel smooth and flow from the bottle for easy application. Dimethicone is like a liquid plastic seal to help with the skin’s barrier function. It also helps with lubrication, allowing the moisturizer to fill the gaps between the skin cells. Other popular occlusives include beeswax and liquid paraffin.
Emollients soften the skin and stop the skin from drying out in reduced humidity environments or after cleansing. Shea butter is a suitable alternative that serves as an occlusive too. Some other emollients you will find include myristyl alcohol, capric triglyceride (made from coconut oil), and lanolin Emulsifiers. These help to stabilize mixtures of oil and water-based substances by reducing the surface tension of the ingredients from being emulsified so that they blend.
If they are not present, you may find water forming towards the bottom of a jar or tube and oil gathering towards the top. Common emulsifying ingredients include glyceryl stearate, glyceryl stearate citrate, lecithin, carbomer, and beeswax. Sensory modifiers convert an unfavorable sensation into a more pleasing one. They include ‘slip modifiers’ or ‘absorbents,’ which help to give hand creams a silky skin-feel as well as excellent oil absorption.
One such slip modifier is tapioca-starch, a modified starch that emanates from the root of the cassava plant that helps ingredients to flow more conveniently from the bottle or tube. If you are regularly applying hand cream, a sensory modifier should mean not having to deal with a greasy residue. Other sensory modifiers include talc and kaolin.
Stabilizers are used in conjunction with emulsifiers to help stop products from separating into their water-based and oil-based components. Sodium carbomer is a synthetic stabilizer and rheology modifier that helps with the viscosity of a skincare product. In essence, your hand cream should have the texture you expect and want from it.
The slight downside, it does have potential environmental consequences. Sodium carbomers are microplastics, which are microscopic (less than 5mm) synthetic polymer particles that are like microbeads, but smaller and finer. They also resist biodegradation. A more eco-friendly substitute for sodium carbomer is xantham gum, which is a natural, sugar-based polymer.
Preservatives added to keep skincare products at their best by eradicating microorganisms, including fungi, bacteria, and yeast. These could taint your cosmetic products and reduce their shelf life. One such ingredient is Phenoxyethanol; it’s synthetically made and works by damaging the cells of the unwanted microorganisms and prevents mold from developing on the inside of the top.
Fragrance, how a hand cream smells can make or break it for some people. Linalool is a typical fragrance in cosmetics; this has a floral aroma similar to lavender and bergamot. It’s a naturally occurring terpene alcohol, but can also be produced synthetically found in many flowers. These ingredients can be allergens, and this is why they are listed.
Looking after your hands during the COVID-19 Pandemic:
It’s quite simple; all you have to do is to wash them frequently. Hand washing is the best thing you can do to protect from Coronavirus because it physically removes it if it’s on the skin. Wash your hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds, making sure not to forget your wrists and the backs of your hands too.
Use hand sanitizer gel (when hand washing isn’t possible). A gel is preferable to a liquid formula because it remains on the skin for longer and, therefore, more likely to kill pathogens. You may want to look for non-greasy formulations for use during the day. Products containing sensory modifiers like tapioca starch, rice starch, or corn starch do tend to help to lessen the greasiness of a product. Lotions are lighter and more easily absorbed into the skin than creams, and these are good to use during the day when you wash your hands more frequently.
Apply thick hand cream at night. Put a rich hand cream on at night and use it as a night mask for your hands. Doing this, you will help to nourish the skin during the night. Doing this helps to repair the surface if you don’t like to moisturize during the day, or you forget to do so.
Are you struggling to find a hand cream? If you are, a regular moisturizer will also work. Some have very similar formulations. An example of this is Aveeno Skin Relief Body Moisturiser that has an identical list of ingredients to its hand cream version. The price is comparable for more than twice the amount of product (200ml vs. 75ml).
If your skin is dehydrated, cracked, or irritated, talk to a pharmacist about alternatives, as a standard hand cream may not be adequate to deal with the problem.
Keeping Your Hands Healthy During A Pandemic – Conclusion:
It can’t be emphasized enough the importance of keeping your hands clean. It’s still the number one thing you can do to protect yourself and others from contracting Coronavirus.
But, it’s equally important that you don’t neglect the moisturizing side too. Increased hand washing and the use of hand gel that often contains alcohol can be drying for your skin. Putting a rich moisturizer on overnight and moisturizing after washing your hands should help to keep hands looking young.
Do you suffer from dry hands and irritated skin? How do care and look after them? Do you have any other tips for caring for your hands? Please leave any comments or questions below, and I will be happy to discuss them with you.
Tria Beauty transforms the way you manage your skin. Their revolutionary light-based skincare products give you the same professional technology used in doctor’s clinics to apply in your own home. Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X Reviews (Permanent Hair Removal)
How Our Light Will Expose Your Beauty – About Tria
Influenced by the way professional treatments offer superior results, Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X Reviews (Permanent Hair Removal) products give you the same technology used by dermatologists in your home. We are allowing you to enjoy for the first time the benefits of ‘light-based’ skincare. Tria understand the importance of being able to better yourself in the quiet privacy of your home – it’s convenient, affordable, immediate, and superior to other alternatives.
Tria light-based skincare is an advanced, revolutionary approach for delivering clinically proven effectiveness. It will unburden you from harsh tropical treatments and ineffective skincare regimens. Light gently interacts below the skin’s surface, with results that offer the potential for glowing, healthy, beautiful, smooth skin.
Liberate With Light – Trusted by Dermatologists
Working carefully with renowned dermatologists and surgeons to transform at-home skincare remedies. Tria engineering team conduct extensive clinical research and are committed to continually testing and improving our products. Also, all of our innovative devices are FDA-approved.
Tria has moved ahead by taking innovative ideas and push forward technological advances delivering ‘light science’ discoveries to bring revolutionary skincare of the highest quality and standards home to you.
Powered by the same in-house Diode Laser Technology used by dermatologists. Tria Hair Removal Lasers are the first and only FDA-cleared at-home lasers to remove unwanted hair but at a fraction of the cost of a salon treatment.
The Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X is the only clinically-proven laser available for home use. It uses the same diode laser technology favored by dermatologists to target and permanently disable the hair follicle to prevent hair from regrowing, for good.
Farewell To Undesirable Hair
You’re only a few sessions away from having smooth skin – permanently. And as the only FDA-cleared laser technology available for home use, Tria reduces up to 70% of unwanted hair after just two treatments in as little as three months.
The Power of Tria
Tria Hair Removal Lasers have up to three times more hair eliminating energy than any other at-home hair removal device. Safe and effective, you’ll get the permanent results of a professional treatment.
Understanding Hair Removal
Are you searching for a permanent, safe solution to remove unwanted body and facial hair?
There are now an array of home and salon treatments on the market. It can be time-consuming trying to understand the countless number of options and confusing to know which solution is the most effective.
Tria Beauty is here to help! When researching hair removal options, one of the critical elements to understand is the difference between Laser and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) technology. Understanding the processes involved and the results you can expect from each.
Recommended Skin Tone
The Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X is created to perform on naturally light brown to black body hair. The Hair Removal Laser 4X works on the dark pigment in the hair. For that reason, lighter hair colors such as blond, white, red, or gray will not absorb enough of the laser’s energy to debilitate the hair follicle.
Tria hair removal lasers house the same core ‘diode‘ technology used by professional Dermatologists. This technology is shown to be more efficient for permanent hair removal results in comparison to Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) technology.
Because our lasers disable the hair follicles by targeting the color pigment at the root, You could be enjoying smooth, permanently hair-free skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to use the Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X on facial hair?
Yes, the Tria Laser 4X can be used on women’s facial hair (cheek line downward). Although it is not advised for Men to use it on their face, this is due to the density of facial hair.
How long does a battery charge last?
Each charge on the Tria Laser 4X lasts approx’ 30 minutes. The battery life allows users to stay focused on the area they are treating, and aware of ‘overlapping’ during treatment. As a rule, a single battery charge should be enough to treat a larger area, such as the lower leg. Or, various small areas, such as the upper lip and underarms.
Why do I have to shave before using the laser 4X?
We advise that you prepare your skin before each Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X treatment to obtain the best results.
Cleanse the treatment area thoroughly by removing all cosmetics, lotions, and creams from the area you wish to treat. (This will allow the laser treatment to penetrate the skin easily.)
Thoroughly Shave the treatment area using a new razor. By doing this, it will enable the laser treatment to be most effective as the laser works on the hair inside the follicle beneath the surface of the skin.
Remove any shaving cream or soap on the skin with a cool, damp cloth and dry the area thoroughly.
Please note: It is not advisable to wax or pluck hair any time between treatments as both methods remove the hair from the follicle. The hair needs to be present inside the follicle for the ‘Hair Removal Laser’ precision treatments to be fully effective.
Can I use my Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X more than every two weeks?
It is recommended using the Laser 4X every two weeks for best results. This treatment protocol is ideal for targeting the hair follicle at the correct stage of its growth cycle. To obtain permanent results, treat the area once every two weeks until you reach the desired result – (Dr. Ronald Wheeland Head of UA Section of Dermatology, MD, FACP – Lasers in Surgery and Medicine-2007)
Can The Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X Be Used With My Hair Color?
The Hair Removal Laser 4X is intended to use on naturally light brown to black body hair. The Hair Removal Laser 4X penetrates the dark pigment in the hair. Lighter colors such as blonde, white, red, or gray will not take in enough of the laser’s energy to disable the hair follicle.
Note: Hair color may vary from one area to another. It can be darker or lighter on different parts of the body, so check the color in the area you wish to treat is suitable to use the laser on it.
Dr. Brian S Biesman, MD specialises in Plastic Surgery and Ophthalmology
How Long Does It Take Before I See Results?
After Your First Treatment:
Occasionally, some users can experience mild redness after using the laser, but this quickly dissipates within 24 hours.
After The First Month:
Clinical studies have shown up to 70% growth reduction after just two treatments.
After 2-3 Months Of Treatment:
Hair re-growth will begin to be less and the hairs’ finer’.
You will start to see a noticeable reduction in the amount of hair re-growth, notably so in areas where the hair is dense.
After Three Months Of Treatment:
The hair follicles deactivated by the Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X will stop growing hair. You should continue to use the Tria Laser 4X as and when required for ‘touch-ups’ until your skin is smooth and you are free of the endless hassle of shaving and waxing – (Dr. Ronald Wheeland Named Head of UA Section of Dermatology, MD, FACP – Lasers in Surgery and Medicine-2007)
How Do I Unlock The Tria Laser 4X?
Use the following procedure to unlock the Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X:
1. Remove the Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X from the battery charger.
2. Holding the device press the power button to turn on. The display window will now show that the device is locked.
3. The red light you see at the bottom of the device is the Skin Sensor. Hold the bottom of the device on the area you are going to treat; this will check your skin tone to see if it is compatible to use the laser on it.
If it shows that the device IS suitable to be used in the area that you wish to remove hair from the Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X emits a buzzing sound. On the display screen, the ‘lock’ indicator will disappear, and it is ready to be used.
If the ‘lock’ sign remains on the display screen and you do not hear a series of ‘beeps,’ this indicates that the Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X is not suitable for use with the skin tone in that area.
In the ‘Instructions for Use’ check that the skin tone in the area you wish to treat corresponds with the tone on the ‘Skin Tone + Hair Color Chart.’ You may not be using the skin sensor correctly and should try the skin test again. To do this, lift the sensor from your skin and follow steps 1 to 3 once more.
Note: When the Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X is idle for approximately 3 minutes, to save the battery, the device will automatically turn off.
Can Other People Use My Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X?
No. The Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X has been designed for personal use only. For personal/hygiene reasons allowing other people to use the device is not recommended.
Is It Safe To Use The Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X On My Genitals?
No. It is not safe to use the Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X on genitals. The skin around these areas may be far more sensitive, have a darker skin tone, and greater hair density. Use of the Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X in these areas may cause severe skin injury. It is safe to use the Hair Removal Laser 4X around the bikini line, the pubic hair which is visible beyond the borderline of a swimsuit.
Can A Teenager Use The Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X?
The Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X is not to be used by or on anyone under the age of 18yrs. Using the Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X on or by children has not been studied and could result in serious injury.
Can I Use The Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X On Tattoos?
No. Do not use the Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X on parts of your skin that are darker than your usual skin tone. That includes tattoos, dark brown or black spots (such as large freckles, moles or birthmarks). Dark skin or tattoos may absorb too much laser light, which can lead to injury of that area.
Anyone looking to break away from the constant, never-ending cycle of hair removal this is the answer to your prayers!
The most impressive feature about the Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X is that it does the same to your hair as if you went to a professional salon, permanent hair removal. Only they will charge you ten times more to do it, and you get to do it out of the doctor’s clinic and in the comfort of your home.
I have used this on my legs and underarms and am now ‘permanently’ free of the dreaded hair removal creams, waxing, and shaving. Tria Home Laser Treatment does work, and my only regret is not buying one sooner!
I do hope you have found this review on ‘Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X (Permanent Hair Removal)’ to be helpful and informative.
If you have any questions, please leave them in the comment box below, and I will be happy to discuss them with you.
When we see the sun shining, and feel the warm weather on our skin, it does wonders for our bodies. We like nothing more than stripping down to our bathing costume and getting color to our pale winter complexion. But with it comes the extra burden of having to shave, wax, and laser exposed, unwanted hair on our bared bodies. So, allow us to share with you The 7 Best Hair Removal Techniques – The Ultimate Guide For You And Your Body.
The Smooth Silky Feel Of Hair Free Skin
Some of the options available to us are – shaving, waxing, laser, or epilators. But which method is best when it comes to expense, comfort, and convenience? Learn the pros and cons of the most popular techniques and the best devices available for people who prefer the ‘smooth, silky’ feel of hair-free skin.
For some people, the preference is to leave the hair to grow as nature designed. After all, we do grow hair on our body for a reason – warmth, hygiene, and to protect against uncomfortable friction.
For others, no reason justifies the sight of a hairy body, and they search for a hair removal process to remove every last strand growing from the eyebrows down! It’s a personal decision, and ultimately your choice, but once you find your solution, it’s a blissful ‘hair-free’ result.
How Much Of The Root Is Removed
Before you decide on the method to display a smooth ‘beach-babe’ body this summer, make sure your preferred hair-removal technique is kind to your skin. Read on to find your preferred weapon!
Shaving
The razor is the cheapest, and one of the simplest methods we rely on to remove hair. The big drawback with this is that it can leave your skin bumpy, stubbly, and even bloody if you are not careful with the razor!
Another unwelcome problem is ‘ingrown’ hairs. Due to the razor cutting the hair at an angle, it tends to regrow inward, especially if the hair is curly. The result is bumpy and inflamed, and often infected skin which will not resolve until you remove the ingrown hair.
Other possible complications as a result of shaving include scarring, breaking fine capillaries when removing the hair and hyperpigmentation – permanent dark marks after healing.
One possible benefit of using the razor is that it does have a moderate exfoliating effect. The blade removes dead skin cells from the surface as you shave, which leaves skin feeling smoother.
How can you prep beforehand?
Hair becomes 60 percent easier to cut when it’s softened in a warm bath for two to three minutes beforehand. Certain products are available to make shaving more straightforward, like Venus’s Satin Care. Applied before shaving it will aid the process and ensure that skin is well-nourished and hydrated. In contrast to other hair-removal methods, hair length is not such a relevant factor so that you can do it as and when required!
How long will it last?
Don’t go with the shaving method if you are looking for the ‘remove and forget’ system! Shaven skin doesn’t last long, and the length of time can depend on individual skin pattern. If you go with the wet shave procedure, you can expect results to last somewhere between one and three days. But dry shaving will get you less, only 24 hours of smooth skin.
Wet Shaving
How It Works:
To remove hair first apply moisturized shaving lotion/gel, this allows for blades to glide over moistened skin. Using long clean strokes go against the direction of the hair growth, pulling the skin taut.
Best For:
Underarms, bikini area, and legs.
Advantages:
Shaving is a convenient option; it’s painless and effective, also gently exfoliates dry, flaky skin on legs to keep them looking extra-smooth. Wet shaving gives a very ‘close’ smooth shave.
Disadvantages:
While shaving does reveal beautifully smooth skin, you have to keep on doing it frequently, almost on a daily basis to maintain the smooth results!
Effectiveness:
An excellent choice for busy women
Electric Shaving
How It Works:
Passing a small electrical machine with a fine mesh screen covering the blades across the skin’s surface, catching hairs. Blades move laterally, cutting the hairs against the edge of the screen.
Best For:
Legs, bikini area, underarms
Advantages:
Quick, safe, and convenient, and because you do it ‘dry,’ it’s easy to do on the go. Suitable for most people and a good option for those with sensitive skin.
Disadvantages:
The smooth feel doesn’t last quite as long as wet shaving. A little more maintenance required, the shaver needs looking after properly, with regular cleaning and replacing the blade annually.
Effectiveness:
Excellent as a gentle and quick hair removal method.
Hair-Removal Creams
Hair removal creams like Veet and other specific creams work by dissolving hair at the skin level. Once applied and left for the set time, you then use a ‘spatula’ type tool provided or use a cloth or sponge to wash away the cream with the ‘broken’ hairs. The remainder of the hair stays in the follicle and is ‘detached’ evenly, this means there is less chance of getting ingrown hairs when the hair starts to grow back.
All of this sounds perfect for you; well hold on for a moment before making a decision.
No Pain – But Is That The Full Story?
Hair Removal Cream Rash
Of all the hair removal options available to you, depilatory creams are, without a doubt the least painful. So, if your pain threshold is low, and the thoughts of putting a razor near your delicate parts brings you out in a cold sweat, but you still feel the need to remove hair, creams are as gentle an option as they come.
It is an excellent choice for those hard-to-reach and more sensitive areas of the body. Hair removal creams are also a great starting option for those wanting to remove hair for the first time.
However, don’t think these creams come with a risk attached to them. These products can give you chemical burns because they are strongly alkaline. A burn wound is more likely to occur if you leave the product on for longer than instructed on the packaging.
Certain types of hair are not removed effectively within the time frame stated; therefore, patients will leave them on longer. By the time the hair gets dissolved, the skin gets burnt.
Before you decide to use hair removal creams, consider what your skin type is. If you have sensitive skin that generally reacts to chemicals in cosmetics, it may be best to stay away from this type of hair removal. If you decide to use them, be sure to do a ‘skin patch’ test to ensure your skin can tolerate the chemicals in them. You must read the instructions thoroughly before using.
How long will it last?
As the hair breaks off just below the skin’s surface, you can expect regrowth in around two to three days. All the surface hair will be removed, with smooth skin is achieved quickly, but the results are not as long-lasting as other methods.
Apply the cream to the area you want to remove the hair. Ensure that every strand is covered so the cream will chemically start dissolving the hair at the surface of the skin. Look at the recommended timings on the packet for the correct time needed for it to work. Set your alarm do not second guess how long to leave it on. When time is up, take the plastic spatula and scrape away the cream or step into the shower and wash the unwanted hair away. Make sure you remove the cream thoroughly, or you risk developing a ‘slow burn’ or allergic reaction.
Best For:
Upper lip, bikini area, and underarms. Probably not suitable for larger areas.
Advantages:
Pain-free, simple to do and inexpensive. If you’re prone to shaving rash, then hair removal cream could be an excellent option to consider. Unlike when you use razors, it doesn’t cut the hair at an angle. You are less likely to get that irritated, itchy feeling when the hairs grow back or the dreaded ingrown hairs!
Disadvantages:
Can be messy and difficult to apply, and not that suitable for doing large areas. Skin irritation can be a problem from chemical ingredients, so it’s best to do a skin patch test the day before you apply to a large area.
Effectiveness Rating:
Best for doing smaller areas like face and underarms. It does leave the treated area hair-free and smooth.
Epilation Root Hair Removal
With this method, you remove your body hair by the root, no ‘slicing’ off from the top here! It takes a few weeks for the hair to grow back, and when it does, it is usually softer and thinner than before. The real benefit of using these hair removal methods is that it lets you enjoy smooth skin for up to 4 weeks, happy days!
Epilators
Epilators are small mechanical hand-held devices that simultaneously pluck multiple hairs from the root. Yes, this may sound like a torture device. Pain tolerance varies in people, and for those with sensitive skin, the thoughts of using an epilator for the first time can be daunting and painful. It may surprise you just how pleasant they are to use, once you get used to them.
Many of the devices that you can buy today are designed to use on wet or dry skin, so they are just as easy to use in the shower as a razor. Some of the better brands remove hair as short as a grain of sand, impressive stuff! That’s four times shorter than waxing – and lasts for up to four weeks.
Personal preference is to use the epilator in the bath or shower. The wet skin gives a smoother surface for the epilator to glide across. The hydrated hairs are also more comfortable to ‘pluck’ from the root. With each use of the epilator, you experience less discomfort making it well worth the effort.
How To Make Using The Epilator Less Painful
Warm baths or showers makes the hair softer and open the pores in your skin. Epilating is more comfortable while you shower or just after a warm shower for this reason.
Try exfoliating your skin a few days before epilating to help remove dead skin. Also, exfoliate a few days after using the epilator to minimize the risk of ingrown hairs.
Shave the area you want to use the epilator on 2-3 days before your first session. By shaving, this will reduce the number of hairs available for epilating, and your first time will be less painful. Also, it is an excellent way to begin to condition your skin to tolerate minor pain. Continue to epilate every few days, removing more hairs as they grow out.
Make sure to place the epilator on as flat a surface as possible on tight skin to make it easier to skim along. In areas where the skin is not firm, such as your armpits or upper thighs pull the skin taut so that the device can capture as many hairs in every pass. Fewer passes over the same spot mean less pain.
If your skin is extra sensitive, use a numbing cream to numb your skin temporarily for epilation. You won’t feel the pain as much and is an excellent option for more sensitive areas such as the underarms.
Epilating
How It Works:
By using a hand-held electric device. The device has a head of rotating that uses’ tweezers.’ As you move it along the skin’s surface, it removes hairs as it goes. Because it removes the hair strand from the root, as opposed to shaving that only removes the hair from the skin surface, it is a smoother, longer lasting hair removal technique.
Best For:
Can be used on all body parts – legs, arms, underarms, bikini area, and face.
Advantages:
Ultra-smooth results, lasting up to four weeks. It is mess-free, and new models come with an extra attachment for removing unwanted hair from specific areas such as the face. Most epilators available today can be used on wet or dry skin.
Disadvantages:
It is painful to use, at least until you become accustomed to it, especially in more sensitive areas.
Effectiveness:
Epilators can remove extremely short hairs, as short as 0.5mm. Unlike waxing which needs hair lengths of 2-3mm for optimal results, so there’s no need to wait for unsightly hair regrowth.
The epilator removes the hair at the root, when it does grow back at around the four-week stage, the tip tends to be tapered, which results in it having a more delicate appearance. Also, regular use of the epilator can reduce the number of ingrown hairs.
Waxing
The popularity of waxing as a hair removal choice is mainly due to its long-lasting effects as waxing removes the hair from the root. The hair needs to be relatively long, around 3-4mm in length for the wax to be able to grip and remove the whole strand.
Waxing, like epilating, comes with a severe ‘Ouch’ reputation, you should brace yourself for the most sensitive areas such as the bikini line. The pain is temporary and eases after a few minutes. Long-lasting effects are one of the reasons why this hair removal method has become a firm favorite. The silver lining at the end of your wax treatment is that you won’t have to go through the agony for around four to six weeks.
What Parts Of My Body Can I Wax?
Most people say you can wax from the eyebrows down, but I would advise against using the wax hair removal method on the face.
Waxing, especially when it comes to the sensitive eyebrow and upper lip area can cause significant skin damage as it removes a top layer of delicate skin when you use it. The sensitive, thin skin around the eyes has no oil glands, and you should use as gentle a method as possible to remove hair from this area. It’s fine to use wax on the body, but it’s too rough on the skin around the eyes. Maybe stick to ‘threading’ or ‘tweezers’ when dealing with the eyebrows, and laser as a permanent solution for the upper lip.
If you are thinking of having your first bikini wax, I would recommend having your legs waxed a couple of times beforehand. By doing this, you will get an idea of how it works, and be ready for when your more sensitive areas are to be waxed.
Waxing – How It Works:
Apply hot or cold wax to the skin in the direction of hair growth. Leave it to solidify, and fabric strips are smoothed on and quickly stripped off going against the direction the hair grows, pulling the hair out with it. An alternative option is pre-made wax strips; these are also a little easier to deal with for the do-it-yourself beautician.
Hot wax is spread thickly onto the area to be waxed, and allowed to semi-dry before it is peeled from the surface of the skin. It can also be reapplied a few times without causing discomfort. The benefits include fewer in-grown hairs, less ‘breakage’ and therefore extended regrowth periods.
Strip wax, on the other hand, is ideal for use over larger areas with thicker, less sensitive skin. We would recommend this for the legs, back, chest, and arms.
When you use any hair-removal methods that pull the hair from the root, exfoliating the skin is always a good idea. You should prepare from the evening before by using gentle exfoliation to help the hairs leave the root. It’s also essential to remain hydrated, as the more hydrated the skin, the easier the hair strand comes out, so up your water intake beforehand.
Is it best to have waxing done by an expert?
A lot of people avoid waxing the more sensitive areas themselves due to bad experiences. If left to be done by a professional therapist it will give you the best and long-lasting hair-free finish.
Best For:
Legs, bikini, underarms, and upper lip.
Advantages:
Wax can keep skin hair-free for weeks, so you don’t have to think about hair removal for between four to six weeks.
The finer the hair, the longer the smooth look lasts. If the area has been shaved, the smoothness lasts for a shorter period as the hairs tend to grow back thicker after being shaved, and at different lengths. However, with continuous waxing, the number of hair strands decreases, and hair-free time gets longer.
Disadvantages:
The obvious drawback is that waxing is painful. Also, you have to wait until hairs are long enough before you can wax them again. A problem particularly in the summer if you want to bare your legs or hate the feeling of regrowing hairs. After you wax, the skin can be left dry.
If you decide to do-it-yourself, it can be tricky and a little messy. If you go to a professional salon, it can get expensive. Finally, wax can miss very short hairs.
Effectiveness:
Great if you find having to do hair removal frequently and a ‘hassle,’ and you are seeking long term hair-free skin.
Professional therapists advised that you do not exercise directly after waxing, expose skin to the sun, or apply ‘strong’ cosmetic products for 24 hours.
Threading
A lot of women now prefer to have their eyebrows and the little annoying hairs on their face removed using threading instead of waxing or shaving. ‘Threading’ is not that traumatic for the skin, making it an excellent option to use on sensitive areas like the eyebrow or upper lip.
The threading method is unlikely to damage skin, as it is gentler than using tweezers, but it has a significant downside. Due to the small areas that are treated with each ‘threading,’ it’s only feasible for use on small areas of the skin.
Threading – How It Works:
Taking a fine length of cotton thread and twining it around each hair, you then pull the thread quickly apart, in doing so you remove the hair along with it.
Best For:
Small, delicate areas – upper lip and eyebrows.
Advantages:
The hairs are removed from the root, so regrowth is slow, and the hairs do not grow back ‘prickly.’
Disadvantages:
A relatively slow process, since the hairs need to be pulled out one by one. It’s quite a specialized procedure, so you should go to a well-trained professional.
Effectiveness:
Great for eyebrows – once women have tried it, most will stay with this type of eyebrow hair removal method.
Tweezers
‘Tweezing’ is a perfect way to maintain eyebrows and any unruly stray hairs. The problem is that because it tackles one hair at a time, it’s an arduous method if you want to remove a significant amount of hair. So, when it comes to legs or underarms, it’s best to employ other techniques. If you’re a perfectionist when it comes to having smooth skin, having tweezers on hand after a wax or shave can be helpful to remove the remaining stubborn strands.
Using tweezers works best when the pores are open to free the hair from the follicles grip. Dab a cold flannel over the skin once you’ve finished, this helps to reduce redness and close the pores, keeping out unwanted infections.
Depending on the type of hair you’re hoping to remove. Use a slant tip tweezers for coarse and longer length hair. For fine strands and stubble-like hairs, the point tweezers would be easier to ‘grab’ using their more delicate tips.
Whether it’s to tidy up your eyebrows or tackling pesky flyaways, tweezers should be a mainstay in your beauty bag.
How It Works:
Take the tweezers between the forefinger and thumb, grasp the hair and quick tug. Always pull the hair in the direction the hair grows to avoid breakage, never yank or tug on eyebrow hairs. Use tweezers with a neat precision tip to isolate, lift, and then pluck the hair from the root.
Best For:
Small, delicate areas – upper lip and eyebrows.
Advantages:
A very effective way to get your eyebrows shaped precisely how you want them, and lasts for around 3-4 weeks.
Disadvantages:
Only suitable for plucking small dealing with small areas. Excessive plucking or applying aggressive skin care treatments can cause eyebrows to fall out
Effectiveness:
Tweezing allows you to shape and get more defined eyebrows. Once you have mastered the technique, you can keep your eyebrows in perfect shape.
Intense Pulse Light
Lumea IPL Home Device
IPL – Intense Pulse Light is a relatively new hair removal method whose popularity has grown over the last few years. It works by sending flashes of light that affect the regrowth of body hair. It is derived from the professional methods used by dermatologists.
IPL is a long-term solution, so should not be your go-to method if you’re after immediate hair removal. It uses a broad-spectrum pulse of light to attack melanin in the hair. The technique can slow regrowth by as much as 92 percent.
How It Works:
Place the machine onto the target area and let the pulse of lights do their thing.
A narrow beam of concentrated light focuses on a small section of skin. The pigment absorbs the light in the hair follicle below the skin surface, heating the hair follicle, and impairing hair growth depending on the stage of the growth cycle. The paler your skin is, and the darker your hair, the more successful the hair removal treatment is going to be.
For IPL to work successfully, there are specific criteria that need to be met.
Dr. Stefanie Williams, a cosmetic dermatologist at Philips Lumea, explains:
“IPL works by targeting the melanin in the hair in contrast to the melanin in the skin. Due to the low levels of melanin in light-blonde, white, grey, and red hair, all light-based hair removal treatments are not effective.
IPL treatment is also not suitable for women with naturally dark skin tones. There is a risk the light may react with the melanin in the skin and not the hair. There are products on the market which claim to be able to treat red and very light blonde hair. However, I would approach these products with caution and ensure that you do plenty of research before purchasing to ensure that it will work for you.” – Dr. Stefanie Williams, a cosmetic dermatologist at Philips Lumea
The area you are treating needs to be hair-free before using the IPL. It is recommended to shave the area as opposed to other methods before using the IPL. For IPL to work, there has to be a hair ‘bulb’ in the follicle. The ‘bulb’ absorbs the light from the device, and the hair root will die and eventually shed the hair.
Wikipedia Advice On IPL
“Contrary to what is often claimed, photo epilation is not a permanent hair removal method but a permanent hair reduction method. Although IPL treatments will permanently reduce the total number of body hairs, they will not result in permanent removal of all hair.” https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intense_pulsed_light
Best For:
Lumea IPL Home Device
IPL works anywhere on the body that grows hair below the eyes. Many of the home devices come with attachments for different body areas. Before purchasing, it’s important to note your skin tone and hair color.
Advantages:
They are quicker to use now and less painful than it used to be as broader sections of the skin can now be treated in one go. The hair is discouraged from growing back, existing hair sheds naturally, and regrowth is considerably slowed down.
Disadvantages:
The skin requires shaving before each treatment. Results are not permanent. So you need multiple procedures. You should not go in the sun for up to six weeks, either side of your treatment. Changes to the pigment in your skin can increase the risk of sunburn. The closer your hair color to your skin color, the higher the risk of burning and potential scarring.
Intense Pulsed Light (Ipl) Technology
IPL devices provide a broad spectrum of colors and wavelengths, similar to a light bulb. It is not possible to focus the light energy into a precise, concentrated light beam.
The light energy of IPL diffuses on the skin that surrounds the hair follicle. In doing so, it loses some of its power on the surface of the skin, and it is not so precise on the actual hair follicle. For this reason, it works more on hair ‘reduction’ treatment as opposed to ‘permanent’ hair-free solution.
Effectiveness:
An excellent option for areas that cause distress, like the upper lip and underarms. Existing hair sheds naturally, and regrowth is slowed down. Application is incredibly straightforward; you treat the desired area of the body every two weeks for eight weeks, to reduce hair growth by up to 92 percent. After the initial phase, you treat the area every six to eight weeks to maintain the results.
Diode Laser Treatment
If you’re considering using a laser device for hair removal, it pays to do your research first. It’s all too easy to be lured into the promise of a life free from the stress of hair removal. But it’s mightily important to read up on the facts (and side effects) first, and to make sure this procedure is right for you and your skin!
We have seen that when it comes to hair removal, there are a variety of options available to you, from waxing, threading, shaving to tweezing. But laser hair removal is one of the few choices that offer a more permanent approach to getting rid of body hair. The perfect combination to get the best results are – Dark Hair and Fair Skin.
What Is The Difference Between A Diode Laser and IPL Technology?
Both methods will leave your skin smooth and hair-free, yet how do you decide between ‘Laser’ and ‘IPL’ – (Intense Pulsed Light) hair removal methods
A Diode Laser device offers a ‘safe to use at home’ permanent hair Removal solution, whereas IPL offers permanent hair Reduction.
Note the difference – ‘Permanent Removal‘ as opposed to ‘Permanent Reduction.’ The variation may seem irrelevant, but it makes a world of difference to having unwanted hair, and having to go through the process of hair removal every few weeks!
Diode Laser Or IPL – Which Is More Effective?
‘Diode Laser Technology’ is recommended for hair removal with permanent results, while IPL is recommended for hair reduction.
Diode Laser Technology
Diode Lasers work by producing a single spectrum of intensely concentrated pure light in one single red color and wavelength.
The laser is exact and targets the dark pigment (melanin) in your hair follicle. It heats the follicle and removes its ability to regrow hair, without touching or heating the surrounding skin.
Diode Lasers create more heat and light energy aimed directly to the hair follicle and only target melanin (the pigment that gives hair its color).
Because the laser is so accurate and ‘hits’ only the hair follicle it can offer a more permanent solution to hair removal.
A Diode Laser device is a little more expensive to buy than an IPL device. However, in this case, you are getting a ‘game-changer’ in hair removal, and the answer to finding permanent hair-free skin.
Nowadays, you’ll find a wide range of home-based treatments and Salon Services for hair removal.
Which do you prefer, dealing with your hair removal at home or going to a salon?
Doing it yourself at home will save you time and money, yet, to begin with, you’ll have to do it more regularly. Having hair removal treatment in a salon will give you expert advice from a professional and can lead to faster results. In either case, the outcome is going to be similar – a considerable reduction in body hair.
Summing-up – The 7 Best Hair Removal Techniques
My preference is to deal with hair removal at home. I find it easier to fit it into my schedule and less intrusive. Also, I have found the perfect device for personal use in the Diode Laser. Tria Hair Removal Lasers have three times more hair eliminating energy than any other at-home hair removal device.
Safe and effective, you’ll get the permanent results of a professional treatment. As it is a permanent hair removal device, I believe that it will ultimately significantly reduce the time I have to spend dealing with hair removal.
I do hope you have found this post on ‘The 7 Best Hair Removal Techniques – Ultimate Guide For You and Your Body‘ to be helpful and informative.
If you have any questions, please leave them in the comment box below, and I will be happy to discuss them with you.
Come winter sun or scorching hot summer day’s there’s nothing more essential than protecting your skin from permanent damage caused by the sun. We will advise you on all your sun care needs, and recommend our number one sunscreen that offers sun protection for all skin types.
Protect Your Skin 365 Days A Year:
The one thing that doctors, dermatologists, beauty experts all agree on, it’s the importance of protecting your skin from the sun. If you don’t apply sunscreen when you’re outside, you put yourself at risk of sunburn and premature skin aging. Both of these can also increase your chances of developing skin cancers.
We all love relaxing in the sun, give the skin a beautiful color in the belief it looks ‘healthy’ when not so pale. What we don’t realize is the damaging impact the sun can have on our skin.
To prevent us from getting this damage to our skin means it’s vital to invest in quality sunscreen. So do not buy the cheapest you can find in the store, but one that offers maximum protection, hydration, and easy to apply with quick absorption. Do take note that you should be wearing SPF on your face all year round.
Using the correct sunscreen for your skin will give you peace of mind whether you’re planning a day at the beach, the park, or relaxing in your back garden. You need the Best Sunscreen For UVA And UVB Protection that lasts.
When it comes to sunscreen, it’s all about SPF – that is ‘Sun Protection Factor’ and getting the best UVA and UVB Protection when you are out doors.
Cosmetic consultant Dr. Ross Perry of Cosmedics Skin Clinics states: “Melanoma skin cancer incidence rates have increased by half over the last decade in the UK. Those with darker skin will know that they don’t burn as quickly as those with fair skin.
However, this does not mean they can skip the sunscreen. Skin damage from the sun’s UV rays can occur in people of all skin tones. So, even if you’re not likely to burn, you still need protection from UVA/UVB rays.” Carry on reading, and we will tell you what we consider to be the Best Sunscreen For UVA And UVB Protection (Our No1 Recommendation)
Specific Sunscreens To Meet Your Needs:
There are sunscreens designed to suit particular needs, such as sensitive or acne-prone skin, water-resistant sunscreens, and child-friendly options. You may prefer an oil, a spray, or a mousse instead of the more traditional cream.
Whatever you decide on, the most important information to get to grips with is the level of protection the product offers. If you don’t know your SPF’s from your UVA’s or UVB’s, we shed some light on what you need to look out for and how to choose the right sun cream for your skin.
SPF Rating:
A product’s SPF rating means the amount of protection it provides against ultraviolet B radiation (UVB), which is the chief cause of sunburn. The scale runs from SPF2 to 50+ with the latter being the most reliable form of UVB protection available. To simplify things, an SPF 15 sunscreen blocks about 93% of UVB radiation, while SPF 50+ blocks about 98% UVB radiation.
The British Association of Dermatologists recommends that you use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and to apply facial sunscreen every day.
What Is The Difference Between UVA and UVB Rays?
You have two main types of ultraviolet radiation when it comes to sun damage – UVA and UVB.
The UVA – ‘aging rays’ – account for 95 percent of the earth’s ultraviolet radiation. ‘Long waves’ that deeply penetrate the skin, they damage collagen and elastin, causing wrinkles, premature aging, and cancer.
The UVB – ‘burning rays’ – are ‘short rays’ harm the skin’s surface; these are responsible for sunburn, and more likely to increase the risk of skin cancer.
What Are The Two Types Of Sunscreen?
Sunscreens fall into two categories. One is ‘Chemical Sunscreen’; this typically contains a combination of two or more of the following active ingredients’. Oxybenzone, Avobenzone, Octisalate, Octocrylene, Homosalate, and Octinoxate. These work by being absorbed into the skin and convert the UV rays into non-damaging light and heat.
Chemical sunscreens tend to be thinner, so they’re easy to apply daily. Manufacturers recommend that you wait at least 20 minutes for the product to soak into the skin before going out into the sun.
The other type of sun protection is ‘Physical Sunscreens,’ also know as ‘Mineral Sunscreens.’ Physical sunscreen works with the natural active ingredients’ zinc or titanium oxide blocking out UV rays. They sit on top of the skin to reflect harmful UV light away.
Physical (mineral) sunscreens are less likely to clog pores, so they’re better for sensitive and blemish-prone skins. They can rub off easily, and as they are harder to apply, some may leave a slight white appearance to the skin.
Some sunscreens carry a UVA star rating from 0 to 5 stars; this tells you how much UVA radiation they absorb, relative to UVB radiation. You should not be alarmed if you don’t see a number on the bottle. The rating system was devised and owned by Boots, so not all brands carry a ‘star rating.’
The British Association of Dermatologists recommends that an SPF of 30 with a star rating of at least four out of five is “generally considered as a good standard of sun protection.” It is always advisable to wear sunglasses and a hat and to take regular breaks in the shade.
The EU recommendation is that sunscreen should offer UVA protection that is at least a third of the SPF. If you see a sunscreen with the letters UVA in a circle, you can rest assured that it meets this minimum requirement. Sunscreens that offer the best protection against both UVB and UVA radiation come under the term “broad spectrum” products.
When buying sunscreen always choose ‘broad-spectrum,’ meaning you get both UVA and UVB protection. The SPF (Sun Protection Factor) refers to UVB protection, and the Skin Cancer Foundation considers an SPF of 15 or higher adequate UVB protection for everyday activity. But, they do recommend using SPF of 30 or higher for extended or intense outdoor exposures.
A sunscreen that promises all-day protection from just one application may sound like a helpful, safe solution for your day in the sun. But you need to be aware that activities, like swimming or even just reclining on a sun lounger, can cause the cream to rub off. In reality, you will need to reapply several times throughout the day to stay protected.
Stay safe in the sun with selection of the best long-lasting, water-resistant and non-comedogenic sunscreens from the PIZ BUIZ® suncare range offering the Best Sunscreen UVA and UVB Protection, and our number one recommendation for the summer.
Our No’1 Recommended Sunscreen
PIZ BUIN® has been providing sun-seekers everywhere with the best suncare solutions for over 70 years. They help them achieve the perfect balance between getting a beautiful tan and the protection they need. They offer a vast range of sunscreens that will meet with most peoples skin types and requirements.
PIZ BUIN® was among the first to make getting a suntan safer by introducing the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) in the 1960’s. Wherever you like to go sunbathing, whether it’s at the beach, on a mountain or in the city, PIZ BUIN® has been helping people to enjoy the sun safely.
PIZ BUIN® MOISTURISING – Intensely Moisturising Sun Protection
If you love the sun but want to take extra care of your skin, then the Piz Buin® Moisturising range is precisely what you need. Advanced UVA/UVB, sun protection filters, help protect the skin from the sun and, combined with effective anti-oxidants, help prevent sun-induced premature skin aging.
A unique hydrating complex provides intense moisturization to help maintain the skin’s natural hydration level while tanning.
A non-greasy, non-sticky formula the PIZ BUIN® Moisturising Sun Lotion intensively moisturizes your skin. Allowing you to get a tan under the sun and leaving the skin smooth and silky soft all day.
PIZ BUIN® Moisturising Sun Lotion is sweat and water-resistant.
Whether you’re getting a burst of sun on a weekend city break or planning to hit the beach for a long relaxing holiday, use Piz Buin Tan & Protect®. Available in Oils, Lotions, and Sprays, it will allow you to get the best suntan from your time in the sun.
Piz Buin Tan & Protect® links effective UVA/UVB protection with Illumitone™. By boosting the production of the skin’s tanning pigment by up to 70%*, Illumitone™ is proven to speed up the natural tanning process for a naturally faster more beautiful tan.
PIZ BUIN TAN & PROTECT® – Enhances Natural Tanning
Our tan accelerating oil spray helps achieve a safe, superb color quickly – allowing you to enjoy every moment you spend in the sun this summer. Traditional tanning oils help to may make your tan look incredible but offer little or no protection from UV rays, while regular high SPF sun creams can mean having to wait longer to get the summer color you desire. So how can you get a gorgeous, natural tan faster without compromising on protecting your delicate skin from burning?
PIZ BUIN TAN & PROTECT® Tan Accelerating Oil Spray is just what you need this summer. Our fast-absorbing, easy to apply non-greasy oil combines powerful UVA and UVB protection with Melitane™. Melitane™ is an innovative ingredient that speeds up the skin’s natural tanning process (in Vito test). The fast-absorbing oil nourishes the skin leaving it beautifully smooth and glossy, and it is sweat and water-resistant offering a faster, more beautiful tan safely! Available in Oil Spray, Lotion and Spray Lotion.
AVAILABLE IN SPF 6 – 15 -30
PIZ BUIN TAN & PROTECT® Tan Accelerating Oil Spray. Consumers were asked to tell us what they thought of the tan accelerating oil spray, and many were in favor of the product. After four weeks of testing:
Now you can give your skin that beautiful summer shimmer instantly and keep it all summer long – without compromising on protection.
The subtly tinted PIZ BUIN INSTANT GLOW® contains delicate, light-reflecting pearls that illuminate your skin with a beautiful subtle golden shimmer. PIZ BUIN ®’s advanced UVA/UVB filter system will give your skin immediate and effective sun protection.
Skin Illuminating Sun Spray – The Benefits:
The fast-absorbing non-greasy, non-sticky, spray hydrates the skin. And, due to our innovative multi-position “upside-down” packaging, PIZ BUIN INSTANT GLOW® gives you a convenient application, every time. Doesn’t contain self-tan! Available in Spray or Lotion
With sun-sensitive skin, even minimal exposure to UV rays can cause prickly sensations and blotchiness, making it challenging to enjoy your time in the sun.
PIZ BUIN® ALLERGY has been developed by dermatologists to protect the most sun-sensitive skin. It absorbs quickly and provides hours of moisturization to soothe the skin and help prevent peeling allowing you to embrace the sun without the worry.
With a combination of powerful UVA/UVB sun protection combined with Calmanelle®, a unique anti-irritant shield complex* that is proven to help strengthen the skin’s resilience to the sun. Calmanelle® is formulated with the powerful anti-oxidant FEVERFEW PFE™ to help increase the skin cells tolerance* to the sun.
Sun Sensitive Skin Lotion – The Benefits
The lotion especially developed for sun-sensitive skin; it absorbs quickly and provides hours of moisturization to soothe sun-sensitive skin.
PIZ BUIN® ALLERGY Sun Sensitive Skin Lotion is sweat and water-resistant. Available in Spray, Lotion and Face Lotion
AVAILABLE IN SPF 15 – 30 – 50+
PIZ BUIN PROTECT & Intensify ® – Tan Intensify Protection
PIZ BUIN Tan & Protect® Tan Intensifying Sun Spray helps to enhance your skin’s own natural tanning process*. The spray provides immediate and effective UVA/UVB sun protection. The instantly absorbing, non-greasy and non-sticky formula hydrates your skin, which helps prevent peeling and contributes to a longer-lasting tan.
How to use:
Apply generously and evenly before sun exposure. A reduced quantity lowers the protection level significantly. Reapply frequently, especially after sweating, swimming or towelling. Avoid midday sun and staying too long in the sun even while using sunscreens. Keep babies and children out of direct sunlight. Do not spray directly into face. For use on face spray into hands and apply. Use caution, as floor may become slippery during use.
AVAILABLE IN SPF 10 – 15 – 30
I do hope you have found this post on the ‘Best Sunscreen For UVA and UVB Protection (Our No1 Recommendation)’ to be helpful and informative. If you have any questions, please leave them in the comment box below, and I will be happy to discuss them with you.
Sensitive skin can be genetic. It can also become weakened by extrinsic factors like the sun, pollution, or extreme heat and cold. Other, intrinsic factors may make the skin more reactive too – hormones, age, and stress are all factors that can contribute as does your diet.
Help For Sensitive Skin
With regard to sensitive skin, it’s a true and accurate saying, “you are what you eat.” But, for most people, diet is something that seems to get disregarded as a contributor to skin health and how it reacts to certain foods. Here are our top skin nutrition tips, focusing on the best foods for healthy skin and those you should be avoiding. If you are seeking help for sensitive skin – your diet can make a difference!
Treating skin too aggressively is one of the chief reason why skin reacts. “Even if you do not intend to, you could be overwhelming your skin. The average woman uses 12 different products with 168 unique ingredients every day” according to the Environmental Working Group in Washington, D.C.
What Is Sensitive Skin?
The best way to define sensitive skin is skin that is hyper-reactive to its environment. It will often become red, flaky, spotty and inflamed and feeling itchy, hot and uncomfortable when triggered. The reaction is because, for one reason or another, the barrier function of the skin has become compromised.
There are several reasons why this can happen, and why it is so difficult to find what is the cause of your skin to have an adverse reaction. Sensitive skin can be genetic. It can also become weakened by extrinsic factors like the sun, pollution, or extreme heat and cold. Other, intrinsic factors may make the skin more reactive too – hormones, age, and stress are all factors that can contribute as does your diet.
If the skin on your face feels tight and has a coarse texture feel, it could be dry or naturally dehydrated. Dehydrated skin is precisely what it says: a complexion lacking in water, and moisture.
It could be a result of your diet, the weather, or the products you’re using. (Too much alcohol in a product is a common culprit) But dehydrated skin is a temporary condition, whereas dry skin is a skin type – the one you’re born with and have to deal with your entire life. Dry skin doesn’t produce enough oil, so it’s always in need of a dose of moisture. And when dryness peaks, skin cells can start to lift, causing irritation and itchiness.
The skin is the largest organ in the body; the condition of it is a useful guide to a person’s well-being. So, if you have a diet of junk food, processed meals, and sugary snacks, there is every chance this will eventually play havoc with your general health.
So, this type of diet will gradually affect how the skin is going to look and feel. A good beauty regime needs to take into account two things. What we put into the body, and what we apply onto the body.
Are Certain Foods Likely To Intensify Skin Irritation?
Research into how certain foods can impact skin health is still limited. But there is ever-increasing evidence that certain foods are more actively associated with sensitive skin and skin damage. Research implies that a diet high in processed or refined carbohydrates and unhealthy fats can lead to premature skin aging.
Even though you’re well beyond puberty, pimples keep popping up the same way they did before you finished school.
Acne occurs for any number of reasons; it could be because of stress, or a lack of sleep. Overactive oil glands will cause pimples to appear or exposure to comedogenic products that tend to cause blackheads by blocking the pores of the skin. But, sensitive skin types are particularly susceptible because they’re naturally prone to inflammation.
Foods To Be Weary Of:
Foods With Additives – Such as food coloring, can trigger inflammation.
Salt – As hydration is such an essential part of maintaining healthy skin, salt, which dehydrates the body, should be reduced.
You can counterbalance eating salty foods by drinking plenty of water.
Sugar – A diet high in sugar brings on inflammation. Sugar binds to collagen through a process called glycation, and this leads to the skin getting stiff. Ultimately, this will lead to premature aging, rosacea, sensitive skin, and acne.
Junk Food – processed fast food tend to have high levels of salt and sugar as well as additives. Avoid not just for the sake of your skin, but your general health also!
Spicy Food – Spicy, hot foods are stimulants; this can increase circulation and raise the bodies’ temperature. The extra heat in the skin may cause it to become aggravated and more sensitive.
Is Skin Sensitivity Due To A Food Allergy?
In some cases, a food additive or a particular food may cause the skin to become sensitive and reactive. Particularly skin that is delicate and vulnerable and this could be a sign that the body is allergic to a particular food. Foods that are known to cause a reaction or ‘trigger’ foods include dairy, gluten, soy, peanuts, and eggs but keep in mind that the problem could lie with other foods too. It is advisable to have an allergy test to find out which foods might be the ‘triggers’ for your sensitive skin.
Skin Nutrition – A Healthy Diet For A Glowing Complexion
There are many advantages to choosing a healthy eating plan. Generally, foods that are good for the skin are also the best foods for your overall well-being.
Cutting out processed foods, bad fats, sugar, caffeine and alcohol and increasing fresh fruit, vegetables, and omega 3’s. By doing, this, you will get the added bonus of boosting energy levels, brainpower, healthy hair, and gain control of any weight problems.
Video – Ultra-Sensitive skin
The Best Foods For Skin Health
A varied diet that incorporates plenty of fruit, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, beans, and omega-three fatty acids is key to keeping your skin hydrated. It will also give the skin all the vitamins and minerals it needs to perform. Research has shown that antioxidant-rich foods have a protective effect on the skin.
Foods that contain the following properties are said to be good for the skin:
Omega 3 fatty acids – these are to be found in oily fish, walnuts and flaxseed oil, and help to replenish the skins natural barrier.
Selenium – this helps protect skin from free-radicals and found foods like Brazil nuts, prawns, lamb, fish beef, turkey, oysters, crab, sardines, and whole-wheat pasta.
Antioxidants – are important for slowing and preventing free-radical damage and maintaining healthy cells. You find these in many different foods, especially colorful fruits and vegetables like berries, beetroot, squash, peppers, tomatoes, and spinach.
Coenzyme Q10 – this essential antioxidant that is required for energy and for cells to work. The body makes it, but as the body ages, CoQ10 depletes. You will find the antioxidant in salmon and tuna, liver, poultry, and whole grains.
Vitamin A – can be found in foods such as leafy green vegetables, carrots, dairy foods, oranges, and melons. It is a vital requirement to help repair the skin.
Vitamin C – helps to protect the skin from sun damage and repair cells. You will find it in citrus fruits, kiwis, papayas, broccoli, and bell peppers.
Vitamin E – said to be one of the most useful vitamins for people with sensitive skin. Vital for relieving skin from sun damage and reducing inflammation. Available from vegetable oils, greens, nuts, seeds, and asparagus.
Vitamin B – is believed to support the skin, hair, and muscle tone; you will find this in dark leafy vegetables, lentils, nuts, seeds, and brown rice.
The Importance Of Fluids
Sensitive skin can be down to the skin being dehydrated. When the skin’s protective layer, or stratum corneum, lacks moisture, it is unable to function correctly. The Stratum Corneum is made up of cells and lipids that, when healthy, form a porous barrier that keeps the skin moist, while also blocking out toxins and free radicals.
If you do not consume enough fluids, then this top layer of the skin is compromised, leading to premature signs of aging. Keeping the body hydrated is a critical part of having healthy skin.
Drinking enough fluids also acts as a ‘flushing system’ in the body to help remove toxins; if these are allowed to build up, it can cause skin sensitivity. Adults need to drink at least eight glasses of pure, filtered water daily to help the body detoxify.
Remember, not all fluids are helpful to your skin; in fact, some can actively increase sensitivity levels.
Fluids To Avoid
Alcohol – Acts as a diuretic that robs the body of fluids and dehydrates the skin.
Caffeine – This is also a diuretic that sucks out moisture from the skin.
Sugary Sodas – They come crammed with refined sugar and chemicals.
When Will I See Improvement?
While some changes, such as increasing your water intake, may have an immediate positive effect on the look and feel of skin. However, most dietary changes will take a few weeks to have a positive impact. Changes to the skin take up to six weeks to renew, so the visible effects from changes in your diet will emerge over time.
For persistent skin conditions, it is advised to talk to your GP or make an appointment to see a dermatologist.
I do hope you have found this post on ‘Help For Sensitive Skin – Your Diet Can Make A Difference!’ to be helpful. If you have any questions please leave them in the comment box below and I will be happy to discuss them with you.
Staying covered up in the sun is vital to protect the skin, and applying the correct amount of sunscreen is an important part of forming good sun-safe habits.
Skin Protection In The Sun:
Applying sunscreen is an essential part of your daily skincare routine to avoid sunburn. It is vital that you pick a product best suited to your skin type to get the best protection from the sun.
For most people, a quick ‘slap’ of sunscreen and they believe that is sufficient for the day. In fact, using sunscreen correctly is more intricate than you think. This can be in part down to confusing claims mixed with common misunderstandings that often lead to compromised sun safety.
Some of the most common questions regarding sunscreens are, how do sunscreens work? What is SPF? How often do you need to apply sunscreen? Can you rely on once-a-day sunscreen? And what about the SPF you find in your make-up?
Read our Reviews to help you decide which Sunscreen to use on the face –
The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) tells you the level of protection sunscreens give against UVB radiation. This is the radiation that causes sunburn and irreversible damage to skin that may lead to skin cancer.
It also provides an indication (not a guarantee) of how long skin with sunscreen on will take to go red and burn in response to UV exposure when compared with unprotected skin.
Let’s say unprotected skin with no sunscreen would typically burn after 10-15 minutes in the sun. But, if you have sunscreen applied with SPF15, this will allow you to be out in the sun without burning for around 150 minutes. This is because it has a factor of 15 times longer than if you didn’t have sunscreen on.
Remember, this is only a rough estimate, and you have to keep in mind your skin type, the strength of sunlight, and the amount of sunscreen you apply. SPF is a measure of protection from the amount of UVB exposure, and it is not actually meant to help you determine the duration of exposure.
For best protection, it is recommended to use a minimum SPF sunscreen of 30, applying the proper amount which is 2mg to cm2 of skin, or about one ounce for full-body coverage. Most people under-apply sunscreen if you only use ¼ to ½ the amount that is required and make the mistake of not reapplying every 2 hours.
The Sun Protection Factor – SPF scale is not linear.
SPF 15 blocks – 93% of UVB rays
SPF 30 blocks – 97% of UVB rays
SPF 50 blocks – 98% of UVB rays
So, the way to look at this is that SPF30 sunscreen gives you 4% more protection than SPF15 sunscreen.
Another way to explain this is –
SPF15 offers 93% protection, this allows 7 out of 100 photons through.
SPF30 offers 97% protection, this allows 3 out of 100 photons through.
So, even though you are not doubling your level of protection, using an SPF30 will block half the radiation that an SPF 15 would let through to your skin.
It can sound complicated but do keep in mind, most dermatologists recommend using an SPF30 sunscreen at all times.
Why Not Use A High SPF In The Sun?
Sunscreens with really high Sun Protection Factor, such as SPF75 or SPF100, do not offer significantly higher sun protection when compared with SPF30. This can mislead people into thinking they have more protection than they actually do.
UVA and UVB are both types of ultraviolet radiation from the sun. Both have been linked with skin cancer, although UVB is the leading cause of sunburn, UVA is known to be the cause of premature aging.
Additionally, to have broad-spectrum protection, the UVA protection should be at least 1/3 of the UVB protection. High SPF sunscreens usually offer far greater UVB than UVA protection, thus offering a false sense of ‘total’ protection.
Not all sunscreens protect you from UVA rays. To check if the sunscreen you purchase has UVA protection you should see on the packet a logo with ‘UVA’ written inside a circle.
Don’t Confuse ‘Water-Resistant’ And ‘Waterproof’ Sunscreens:
About 95% of the sunscreens claim to be water-resistant, but this doesn’t mean they are waterproof.
The European industry guideline for water-resistant sunscreens allows the SPF of a product to drop by 50% after a total of 40 minutes submerged in tap water. However, in other parts of the world, the SPF must adhere to what the sunscreen offers after immersion in water.
That means if you buy SPF30 sunscreen, it can drop to SPF15 or less after you have been swimming. If you are spending the day at the beach or by the pool, be mindful of reapplying sunscreen when you leave the water before sunbathing.
Don’t Rely On ‘Once A Day’ Sunscreen In The Sun:
You’ve probably seen ‘Once A Day’ sunscreen on the shelves of your local pharmacy or supermarket. There is no denying that the idea of not having to reapply sunscreen regularly is appealing.
But when tested ‘Once A Day’ sunscreens to see whether they would protect you ‘all day’ in the sun, it was found that very few are up to the job. The average drop in SPF after it was applied for six to eight hours was 74%.
There is no universal standard that sunscreen manufacturers have to adhere to when making a ‘Once A Day’ claim. When asked, sunscreen companies that offer this ‘promise’ say that they do multiple tests to justify it.
The Cosmetics, Toiletries and Perfumery Association (CTPA) who control sunscreen manufacturers have said that companies are moving away from ‘Once A Day’ claims, and now referring to them as ‘Durable Sunscreen.’ Regardless of how long your sunscreen claims to last, stay safe and reapply regularly.
Don’t Buy A Sunscreen That’s Greasy Or Sticky:
Some sunscreens can feel sticky or greasy when you apply them and difficult for the skin to absorb, often leaving you covered in a chalky white residue. Because they are not pleasant to use, a lot of people can’t be bothered to reapply them throughout the day.
An excellent way to ensure you get into the habit of regularly applying sunscreen is to find one that feels good on your skin. Do this by testing ‘samples’ in stores, choosing one that’s easy to use, provides excellent sun protection, offers high UVA protection, and stick with that brand.
We’ve found five face sunscreens that not only protect from UV radiation from the sun, but they’re also pleasant to apply. To find out which sunscreens will keep you protected without leaving your skin feeling sticky or greasy, click here.
Don’t Apply To Little Sunscreen:
The reality is you are never applying enough sunscreen, most of us use less than half of the amount we should. A sunscreen’s SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is measured using a test that requires a set amount to be applied – 2mg per square centimeter of skin, to be precise.
So, for your sunscreen to offer the protection claimed, you need to apply the correct amount on your body, this means the total sunscreen required for the average-sized adult is 35ml. That is measured out as seven teaspoons of sunscreen. You will use one spoonful for head and neck, one for each arm and leg, one for your back, and one for the torso.
Applying less sunscreen can have a significant impact on the protection you receive. If you use half as much sunscreen, this means you get as little as a third of the claimed SPF. Sunscreen also needs to be reapplied regularly to offer protection to the skin, so slather more on at least every two hours.
How Do ‘Mineral’ Sunscreens Work?
‘Mineral’ or ‘Physical’ sunscreens as they often called use physical blockers, such as titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, to prevent UV rays from reaching the skin. These ‘Physical’ blockers are made using naturally occurring minerals. If you do pick a ‘Mineral’ sunscreen, it’s essential to check that it includes an ingredient that acts as a sun filter.
Some sun protection is better than none at all, but products will only reach the full SPF when the correct amount is applied to the skin. For any product to provide the SPF that is said on the bottle, you need to use 2mg per cm2. This means about one teaspoon of make-up with SPF needs to be applied to your face!
And, just as with sunscreen, it needs to be reapplied regularly. In reality, you are unlikely to use the correct amount of make-up required. For example, in the case of a foundation with SPF, that would mean a 30ml bottle would only last six applications. When used as part of your regular daily make-up, this isn’t going to be enough to protect you from the sun.
How The Sun Sees You:
Do I Need A Specific Sunscreen For Babies In The Sun?
Sunscreens that are specially formulated for babies and children are less likely to irritate young sensitive skin. However, sunscreen is just one step to take to keep kids safe in the sun.
You need to encourage kids to slip on a t-shirt, splash on loads of sunscreen, put on a hat, and wear sunglasses. These are all excellent ways to help children to remain safe while playing in the sun. Babies skin is so delicate they should be kept in the shade at all times.
‘Sensitive’ to skin sunscreens are available; these tend to use physical blockers, which act as a screen to protect the skin. Chemical absorbers soak up UV radiation but are also more likely to cause skin irritation than physical (mineral) blockers.
There is a long list of ingredients that are used as chemical absorbers. If you are looking to avoid them, the easiest way is to look for products that are labeled for ‘sensitive’ skin rather than search for specific ingredients.
Although this might sound counter-intuitive, surely using sunscreen is supposed to mean we can spend more time in the sun? No, it definitely is not!
Sunscreen is intended to help protect our skin from the sun during your normal daily activities. It should not be used as a reason to spend long periods in the sun or to help with getting a beautiful suntan.
There is no such thing as having a ‘healthy tan.’ Skin Protection In The Sun Is Vital. If you notice a change in color to the skin through sunbathing, it’s a clear indication that your skin has been damaged from overexposure to the sun.
Research has shown that people who use high SPF stay out for longer in the sun. People who apply sunscreen are also more likely to have been sunburnt many more times than those who avoid the sun.
This comes down to the misconception we have about and use sunscreen. It can only offer so much protection, and you shouldn’t rely on sunscreen alone.
Skin Protection In The Sun has to be your number one priority. You should use sunscreen along with sunglasses, a hat, loose clothing, and frequent relaxing breaks in the shade and staying hydrated drinking water and not alcohol!
I hope you have found this post on ‘Skin Protection In The Sun – Make Sure You Know How To Stay Protected’ to be helpful. If you have any questions please leave them below and I will be happy to discuss them with you.
The best sunscreens are not just for holidays, they need to be applied daily all year round to keep wrinkles, dark spots, and pigmentation at bay.
There is now a whole host of face sun protection products that you will enjoy using on your face. They include complexion-boosting tinted SPF for even skin tone, antioxidant-rich creams for extra wrinkle-reducing prowess, and hydrating moisturizers with SPF.
So, whether you’re looking for sensitive, oily, or dry skin protection, we’ve picked The 5 Best Sunscreens For The Face available to meet your needs.
Shiseido Expert Sun Ageing Protection Lotion For The Face – SPF50
The new WetForce sunscreen may be the first era-changing improvement in sun protection technology since the invention of sunscreen itself. The UV protector that is enhanced when it comes into contact with water.
The principal attraction of this formula is the Wetforce technology, which Shiseido explains gives it an edge in conditions such as water exposure or perspiration. According to the Shiseido, this sunscreen technology increases in UVB/UVA protection after contact with water or sweat; this is the result of interaction between the minerals and their Wetforce formulas.
Shiseido SPF50 offers excellent sun protection in a creamy lotion formula that is invisible upon application on any skin tone. Features new WetForce technology, which provides the skin a protecting veil that becomes active as it comes into contact with water or sweat. This sunscreen is ideal for all outdoor activities and sports, it provides high sun protection, yet is comfortable and gentle on the skin.
Although it provides more than adequate protection for your skin, this innovative product becomes even more effective when it comes into contact with water or sweat. It offers high sun protection technology, but it is comfortable and gentle on the skin.
It features technology that is exclusive-to-Shiseido with ‘SuperVeil 360.’ When applied, it creates a protective veil over the skin to seamlessly fit on the skin surface, protecting it like a second skin, offering complete sun protection. The highly nourishing, lightweight formula smoothes on without a trace of stickiness and an invisible finish that’s absorbed instantly.
Technology:
The Biggest Splash Since SPF was created – The UV Protector that gets boosted by water – A World first by Shiseido Japan.
This sunscreen contains Shiseido’s exclusive SuperVeil-UV 360TM technology that gets stronger when it gets wet.
Get it wet, and once the minerals come in contact water or perspiration boost the power of its protective veil.
So you can swim, play, exercise and enjoy the outdoors, knowing WetForce relishes the challenge from water and the sun.
WetForce technology – your sunscreen’s protective veil becomes stronger as it comes into contact with water or sweat*. Protects against UV rays.
*To activate WetForce technology, expose the applied area to water for 15 minutes or perspiration for 30 minutes.
Consumers Agree:
Suitable for all Skin Types – notably sun sensitive, fair skin.
96% said formula blends quickly into the skin.
95% said the formula has an invisible finish after application.
94% said the formula was non-sticky after application.
Water Resistant 80 Minutes.
Water-Resistant and Perspiration Resistant.
Sand does not stick to it.
Non-Comedogenic, Dermatologist, and Ophthalmologist-Tested.
Shake well before use. It is best to apply after your regular skincare.
Before going out in the sun, apply generously and evenly over the face and neck.
To remove, rinse off thoroughly using a daily cleanser
This product is suitable for both men and women for use not only at the beach but for all leisure and sports activities. So you can play, swim, and enjoy the outdoors, safe in the knowledge that WetForce loves water and humidity as much as you do. This really is one of the best sunscreens for active people who love the sun.
A Lightly tinted mattifying moisturizing lotion protects skin from the sun. A super-light anti-aging moisturizer with SPF30 protection minimizes shine by absorbing excess oil but also has a gentle mineral-based sunscreen with a potent blend of antioxidants that protect and fortify the skin. The soft matte and sheer tint finish make for the perfect makeup base.
Resist Super-Light SPF 30 has a mineral sunscreen base, this makes the product more suitable for people with sensitive, oily skin.
Resist Super-light SPF 30 – The mineral sunscreen also provides a significant mattifying effect, and this sunscreen adds a delicate touch of color to help skin look more even-toned.
This multi-purpose formula protects the skin from sun damage, and also fortifies it with antioxidants. You will see an evener skin tone, fewer visible lines, and the appearance of a healthy-looking glow.
This gentle, mineral-based formula has a sheer tint that works superbly for all skin tones that can be worn alone or applied under your foundation. Its lotion texture leaves a soft matte finish that perfectly preps skin, allowing makeup to apply smoothly and evenly (no primer needed).
Is Resist Super-Light Daily Wrinkle Defense SPF 30 suitable for people with breakout-prone skin?
Yes. Although containing 13% zinc oxide, this formula has been designed so that the zinc oxide ‘floats’ over the skin rather than settling into pores – this is achieved using innovative silicone technology.
Is Resist Super-Light Daily Wrinkle Defense SPF 30 suitable for people with rosacea?
Yes, the formula is fragrance-free, like all Paula’s Choice products. Also, it contains the skin sensitive mineral active zinc oxide plus proven antioxidants and anti-irritants that help to reduce inflammation. When inflammation is reduced, the skin appears less red and looks more even-toned.
The key ingredients
Antioxidants – Help to protect skin against harmful free radicals, among others caused by sunlight and pollution. They have anti-aging properties and calm skin.
Resveratrol – Potent antioxidant abundant in red grapes and, therefore, in red wine. It has significant skin-soothing properties for the skin.
Zinc Oxide – Mineral sunscreen, very useful in protecting against the sun’s UVA rays in addition to UVB rays. Very gentle and therefore suitable for people with sensitive skin.
The key ingredients:
Antioxidants – Help to protect skin against harmful free radicals, among others caused by sunlight and pollution. They have anti-aging properties and calm skin.
Resveratrol – Potent antioxidant abundant in red grapes and, therefore, in red wine. It has significant skin soothing properties for the skin.
Zinc Oxide – Mineral sunscreen, very useful in providing protection against the sun’s UVA rays in addition to UVB rays. Very gentle and therefore suitable for people with sensitive skin.
I’ve tried many sunscreens over the years, and after using this every day for the last 6 months, I can reliably say it’ is one of the best sunscreens I’ve tried. Also, I would recommend this to anyone with oily skin, it’s the only physical sunscreen I’ve used that doesn’t make my skin greasy or appear to be greasy, and it doesn’t cause breakouts. In fact, it seems to keep the oily skin at bay throughout the day.
I like to apply a generous amount for optimum sun protection, and this sunscreen glides on smoothly, drying to a soft matte finish. The tint evens out my skin tone superbly, and quite often, I am happy to wear this on its own.
But, it’s also a fantastic primer under makeup, and I believe it has helped me to get a much more even look when I use makeup. I prefer to use this as a sunscreen over a water-based moisturizer, which seems to prevent any possible dryness or dry patches. This is an excellent product, and I’m so glad I found it!
Sisley Super Soin Solaire Facial Sun Care SPF30
A delicate, silky, and non-greasy cream that blends into the skin and leaves it with a matte appearance. This sunscreen offers cellular protection thanks to the Edelweiss extract. The anti-free radical action is from a blend of Vitamin E acetate and Edelweiss extract that protect the skin from oxidative stress.
With the help of Shea butter, Mango extract, and Camellia oil, these ingredients enable the skin to recover moisture and suppleness. Camellia oil helps to build up the barrier function, so allowing the skin to maintain its optimum moisture level.
This sunscreen has been developed so as not to leave a white appearance on the skin. It is Water-resistant, Non-comedogenic, and Naturally scented with essential oils of Sage and Marjoram.
It provides ideal anti-UVA-UVB protection for initial exposure to the sun and those with fair or sun-sensitive skin needing a high degree of protection.
Super Soin Solaire Facial protection is a ‘youth protector’ sun care product that helps protect the skin’s sun capital and photo-aging. You get this due to a combination of ingenious UVA and UVB filters and ultra-advanced protective active ingredients.
Cellular protection is working tirelessly protecting the integrity of skin cells, and this is essential for their renewal and maintaining a youthful complexion.
Targeted Action On The Skin’s Barrier Function
This facial sunscreen comes with Anti-free radical action from a combination of the active ingredients Vitamin E acetate and Edelweiss extract. These valuable ingredients help to protect the skin from oxidative stress, which is the principal cause of photo skin aging.
Thanks to its protective effect, Edelweiss extract combined with solar filters, helps to preserve the cells from the harmful effects of UV rays.
Edelweiss extract and Camellia oil target and help to strengthen the barrier function to allow the skin to maintain its optimum moisture level, so guarantee higher resistance to environmental damage.
Skin Benefits From Extra Protection:
A moisturizing and nourishing formula – The sun’s rays can damage the skin’s hydrolipidic film leading to dehydration and dryness. Shea butter, Camellia oil, and Mango extracts help to recover suppleness and moisture.
A fluid, silky, and non-greasy cream that leaves the skin feeling supple, and does not whiten the skin. It has the added benefit of being water-resistant and non-comedogenic.
It comes naturally scented with essential oils of Sage and Marjoram. This sunscreen helps to protect the skin from the effects of photo-aging – wrinkles, dark spots, dehydration, and loss of firmness.
Super Soin Solaire Facial Sun Care SPF 30 helps to protect the skin effectively from the sun.
Active Ingredients:
Specific UVA-UVB Filtering Complex : Absorbs UVA-UVB rays.
Vitamin E Acetate : Anti-free radical properties.
Edelweiss Extract : Protects the cellular DNA from oxidative stress, strengthens the skin’s barrier function.
Camellia Oil : Has restructuring, emollient, moisturizing, and nourishing properties.
Mango Extract : Has moisturizing and emollient properties.
Plant-Origin Glycerin : Moisturizes.
Sage (Essential Oil) : Stimulates.
Marjoram (Essential Oil) : Soothes.
Application Tips:
Apply Super Soin Solaire Facial Sun Care SPF 30 generously before exposure to the sun. Must be reapplied every two hours. Avoid over-exposure to the sun, as well as the hours when sunshine is at its strongest. Do not expose babies and young children to direct sunlight.
Conclusion:
A genuinely great Sunscreen without the harmful chemicals, very hydrating, and stays on all day offering added skincare benefits.
It’s so light and gentle when applied, it almost feels like a second skin and does not leave the skin looking pale or white. I’ve been using it for years and cannot fault it; I love applying it to my skin!
Skin Ceuticals Ultra Facial Defense SPF 50
Keep your skin protected against the sun’s harmful UV rays. Form a barrier that protects your complexion from harmful sun damage with the Ultra Facial UV Defense SPF 50 from a world-renowned leader in advanced science-based skincare, SkinCeuticals; a high UVA/UVB broad-spectrum SPF 50 face moisturizer.
Formulated with the latest state-of-the-art UV filters. This lightweight and easily absorbed hydrating sunscreen helps to prevent UV induced collagen breakdown, UV induced hyperpigmentation, UV-induced dark spots, and other signs of premature aging caused by the suns harsh rays.
This easy to apply lightweight sunscreen combines state-of-the-art filters combined with antioxidants to provide complete broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. Designed to prevent photo-aging, sunburn, and premature aging, it also helps to maintain a smooth, plump, and even complexion for the long-term.
Suitable for all skin types, apply to clean skin every morning and throughout the day for best results.
Ultra Facial Defense SPF 50 protects the skin from UVA and UVB rays, known to cause premature skin aging. It is an ultra-light lotion.
Re-apply frequently and generously to maintain complete protection, particularly after swimming, sweating or toweling.
Avoid sun exposure at peak times, and take care to avoid the eye area.
In case of contact with eyes rinse with water immediately and thoroughly.
Conclusion:
Most of the sunscreens I use, I am usually struggling to rub in a milky white appearance, this silky, lightweight formula glided on with little effort required.
Although my skin looked to have a slight shine to it at first, this faded once the sunscreen was absorbed. It didn’t feel oily to the touch, and the ‘glow’ (as my colleagues put it) disappeared when I applied my make-up. Also, I find this sunscreen happens to be a good base for my make-up.
Come to the end of the day, my skin still felt matt and comfortable, as though I was wearing an expensive beauty cream, not just a sunscreen. This is one of the best sunscreens I have seen if you need to apply make-up on top.
Anthelios UVMune 400 Invisible Fluid SPF50+ Sun Cream
For 30 years, we have been working in partnership with dermatologists to bring the most effective yet significantly tolerated products for those people with sensitive skin. Whatever stage your skin concern may be and at whatever stage in life you are at, La Roche-Posay will help to find a solution. Even for those with the most delicate and reactive of skin.
Mexoplex Filtering:
Now enhanced with exclusive filter MEXORYL400, La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios UVMune 400 Invisible Fluid SPF50+ helps to protect skin against damage caused by UVA, UVB and ultra-long UVA rays.
An ultra-resistant formula specifically developed for sensitive skin; this lightweight facial sunscreen provides broad-spectrum SPF50 protection, which is assisted with Mexoplex®. A patented filtering system Mexoplex® and La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water that offers maximum benefits.
This Non-greasy and non-sticky sun lotion is applied effortlessly without leaving white marks. It is ultra sand, sweat, and water-resistant, without stinging your eyes yet still offering very high protection, it is also hypoallergenic.
The effectiveness of Anthelios has been confirmed via clinical studies. Carried out ‘in-vivo’ on people suffering from sun intolerance, particularly those caused by UVA rays (UVA rays are considered the sun’s silent killers).
La Roche-Posay Anthelios products all have a high PPD (Persistent Pigment Darkening) factor – 9 out of 10 world-renowned expert dermatologists recommend Anthelios.
Active Ingredients:
Offering exceptionally high, broad, photostable UVA/UVB/Infrared protection, provides Optimal SPF 50+ protection strengthened against UVA rays (PPD 46, which is stricter than the European recommendation) all down to the patented filtering system Mexoplex® blended with La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water.
I have skin that is both dry, and prone to getting ‘breakouts.’ I find it challenging to find a sun cream that doesn’t break my skin out and cause it to go oily, this product is perfect! So far, I’ve had no problems using this, and I apply it under my makeup after my serums. It is incredibly light and fantastic as a primer for foundation! It works wonders!
This facial sunscreen is quite runny, and can be a little difficult to apply, but absorbs into the skin very well. It doesn’t leave the face shiny as most sunscreens tend to do.
The other good thing is that it is invisible, leaves no trace marks on your skin and non-greasy. It has an incredibly light texture which soaks in quickly. It offers a high ‘Sun Protection Factor’ of 50+, providing excellent protection to the skin from both UVA and UVB rays. I love this and it is one of the best sunscreens to use if you need a high SPF!
The damage caused by the sun can take years to appear, look after your face now before its too late.
Hair removal creams like Veet and other specific creams work by dissolving hair at the skin level. Once applied and left for the set time, you then use a ‘spatula’ type tool provided or use a cloth or sponge to wash away the cream with the ‘broken’ hairs. The remainder of the hair stays in the follicle and is ‘detached’ evenly, this means there is less chance of getting ingrown hairs when the hair starts to grow back.
Sisley Super Soin Solaire Facial Sun Care SPF30
