Author: Reigate Laser Clinic

Are you looking for a sunscreen? 30, trusted, versatile tint…

Whilst Suncreen is no joke, it is however so much easier to protect your skin and look amazing, so let’s talk some more about sunscreen with thanks to our friends at Alumier.

You know you need to wear it every day, even when it’s not summer and also when it’s cloudy. So, wouldn’t it be great if your hybrid sunscreen did more than just protect you from the premature ageing associated with the sun’s rays?

Imagine if it also specifically targeted your skin concerns and was smooth, easy-to-apply and all day comfortable?

Happy to announce that we can make your dreams come true with ANY ONE of our sunscreens. Today, we’re taking a deep dive into the science that takes our hybrid SPF formulas to the next level, so white coats at the ready . . . 

All of our sunscreens (6! count ‘em!) offer triple defence with superior shielding from mineral ingredients zinc and titanium dioxide, plus antioxidants which provide environmental AND daily hydration defence.

But we’ve taken our formulas to the next level with impressive new ingredients that will protect your skin at a higher level because there’s more than just UVA and UVB rays attacking your skin . . .

 
PROBLEM: Infrared Radiation

No, this is not a sci-fi novel; infrared radiation is a form of electromagnetic energy (again, not sci-fi) and around half of the sun’s total energy output is in the form of infrared radiation. While it falls under the invisible light spectrum, meaning you can’t see it with your eyes, it can be felt as heat. It has the ability to penetrate the skin, triggering structural damage, including photoageing. Exposure to infrared radiation, particularly from the sun, can contribute to skin ageing and potentially increase the risk of skin cancer over time. 

OUR SOLUTION: Elix-IR

This rather incredible knotgrass extract is rich in flavonoids and helps to protect the skin against some of the damaging effects of infrared radiation. It’s proven to protect dermal fibres from global sun damage (both UV and infrared), while increasing firmness and reducing the appearance of wrinkles. You’ll find it across our sunscreens, so apply daily and you’ll be fighting a problem you didn’t even know you had.

PROBLEM: High Energy Visible Light (HEV)

AKA blue light (in the visible light spectrum), this is the one that’s emitted from screens, but it also comes from sunlight. It may well contribute to visible skin ageing, hyperpigmentation, and skin damage, though research on its specific effects is on-going. For now, protection through screen filters and skincare products can help mitigate potential harm. 

OUR SOLUTION: PHYSAVIE

Another one of our hybrid sunscreen ingredients, this is a wow plant extract that’s clinically proven to biologically reduce damage from infrared radiation and visible light and also protect skin from the harmful effects of blue light. We use Physavie in all of our sunscreen formulations, so you don’t even have to consider separate protection.

PROBLEM: POLLUTION

A problem in so many ways, particulate matter from pollution can be undetectable to the human eye. Did you know some of the smallest particles are a fraction of the size of the circumference of a hair strand? Particulate matter is able to adhere to the skin like glue and can even penetrate the skin barrier, often triggering trans epidermal water loss and elevating sensitivities, not to mention triggering premature signs of ageing.  

OUR SOLUTION: EXO-P

Our sophisticated solve is an exopolysaccharide that forms a breathable, biomimetic shield which works to trap particulate matter before it enters the skin. Apply one of our sunscreens each day and you’re protecting your skin against this harmful pollution, particularly useful if you live in a city or drive on busy roads.

Our hybrid daily sunscreens bring all this and our triple defence – mineral ingredients: zinc and titanium dioxide, antioxidants which provide environmental protection and daily hydration defence. And of course, SPF (read all about it in our Busting the Myths of SPF blog). We make the best hybrid sunscreen (if we do say so ourselves!) and remember you have 6 option:  Clear Shield, Sheer Hydration in untinted or versatile tint and Moisture Matte in Ivory, Sand or Amber.

You can even replace your daily moisturiser with our hydrating sunscreen formulas if that works better for your skin.

For personalised skin advice, don’t forget our skin pros offer SKIN CONSULTATIONS  and will tweak your daily skincare regime for the summer months.

Take your skin protection to the next level and future-proof your skin day in day out with a sophisticated AlumierMD formula.

Please get in touch or book a Skin Consultation with one of our experts here. If you want to have a quick chat, please give us a call on 01932 553118.

Are you thinking about an in-clinic treatment or already have a booking?

Then we have good news for you: you can boost your results!

No matter what your treatment is, from microneedling to chemical peels, you can improve your skin outcome, everything you do in the weeks before and after your treatment will have an impact, from the skincare products you use to the amount of sleep you get.

If your skin is in really good condition on the day of your treatment, your results will be even better!

So, don’t save all the good skincare for afterward—your treatment isn’t the beginning; today is!

When it comes to your skin professional, they will be thrilled if your skin is at its best on the day of treatment. This means they can potentially go deeper, stronger, and harder and you’ll get both amazing results and the best value!

Plus, if your skin is more resilient and stronger, there’s a chance you will be able to combine more than one skin treatment at your appointment. You might be able to have, for example, an enzymatic peel followed by some light-based therapy.

The same applies to your recovery

If you follow good aftercare, you will have better and quicker results. There’s so much you can do outside of your treatment slot to get your skin in prime condition before you even walk through the clinic door.

Here are our top 5 hacks, so don’t delay and start today!

Take a look at your wellbeing Focus on your gut health, as any inflammation here will often show up on the skin as redness, dullness, or breakouts. Also, ensure you get enough sleep in the weeks leading up to your treatment, as sleep is intrinsic to skin health and recovery.

Prep with medical-grade skincare to get great results Don’t save your precious AlumierMD skincare for after your treatment. Work with your pro to ensure your daily skin routine is working hard for your skin goals and needs. If your skin is in tip-top condition when you walk through the clinic door, your treatments will be even more successful.

Do at-home facials In the weeks leading up to your treatment, spend a bit of extra time on a weekly or bi-weekly at-home facial. Ask your pro for a mask recommendation.

Set your pro a challenge Arrive at the clinic with such good skin that your pro will need to work extra hard to take it to the next level!

Follow the aftercare routine set by your pro Your pro will advise you on what to use and when for the first few weeks after your treatment. If you follow it to the letter, you will have better and quicker results—can’t say fairer than that!

Please get in touch or book a Skin Consultation with one of our experts here. If you want to have a quick chat, please give us a call on 01932 553118.

Recognising these distinctions and practicing sun safety can protect your skin from harmful UV radiation, reducing your risk of skin cancer and premature aging. This blog explores the difference between tanning and sunburn.

The Basics of Tans and Sunburns

Tans and sunburns are the body’s reactions to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun.

Let’s break down how each happens…….

Tans

• Exposure to UV Rays -When your skin gets exposed to UV light, especially UVA rays, it produces more melanin.
• Melanin Production – Melanin is a pigment made by skin cells called melanocytes. It helps absorb and spread out UV radiation, acting like a natural sunscreen.
• Types of Melanin – There are two types, eumelanin, which is darker and offers more UV protection, and pheomelanin, which is lighter and offers less protection.
• Tanning Process – As melanin increases, your skin darkens, creating a tan. This is your body’s way of trying to protect itself from more UV damage. However, even a tan can’t fully protect your skin from harm.

Sunburns

• Excessive UV Exposure – Sunburns occur when your skin is exposed to too much UV light, especially UVB rays.
• Damage to Skin Cells – UVB rays penetrate the outer skin layer (epidermis) and damage cellular DNA, leading to inflammation and the redness and pain of a sunburn.
• Inflammatory Response – Your immune system responds by dilating blood vessels and sending inflammatory cells to the damaged area, causing redness, swelling, and pain.
• Long-Term Effects – UVB rays can damage DNA and cause mutations in skin cells, increasing the risk of skin cancer. Sunburns are a clear sign of serious skin damage.

By understanding how tans and sunburns work, you can better protect your skin from harmful UV rays and reduce the risk of skin cancer and premature aging.

Identifying Sunburn – Symptoms and Immediate Steps

Recognising sunburn and acting quickly can help reduce discomfort and prevent further skin damage. Here’s how to identify sunburn and what to do if it happens….

Signs of Sunburn

• Red Skin – The skin looks red and may feel warm.
• Pain and Tenderness – Sunburned skin is often painful, tender, tight, or itchy.
• Swelling – Severe sunburn can cause swelling.
• Blisters – Severe sunburns may result in blisters, indicating significant skin damage.

Immediate Actions

• Get Out of the Sun – Move indoors or to a shaded area immediately to prevent more damage.
• Moisturise – Apply a gentle, soothing moisturizer with aloe vera to reduce dryness and pain.
• Hydrate – Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.
• Pain Relief – Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen to ease discomfort.
• Protect Skin – Keep sunburned skin covered or stay in the shade to avoid further exposure.
• Handle Blisters Carefully – If blisters form, do not pop them to avoid infection.
• Rest – Stay in a cool, shaded area and avoid activities that could irritate your skin further.

If you need any help or advice with your skin this summer, please get in touch and chat with one of our Experts, or call us at 01932 553118.

The Role of Hydration in Skin Health

Hydration is crucial for healthy skin. Adequate water intake keeps skin elastic, soft, and supple, while dehydration causes dryness, flakiness, and dullness. Dehydration can make dark circles more prominent as it thins the skin, revealing blood vessels. Drinking water improves blood circulation, which may reduce the appearance of dark circles.

Benefits of Staying Hydrated

• Clearer Complexion: Water flushes out toxins, enhancing skin tone.
• Reduced Puffiness: Balances the water-salt ratio in the skin.
• Anti-Aging: Maintains skin elasticity, slowing the aging process.

How Much Water Should You Drink?

The Eatwell Guide recommends that people should aim to drink 6 to 8 cups or glasses of fluid a day. Water, lower-fat milk and sugar-free drinks, including tea and coffee, all count.

You may need to drink more fluids if you’re:

• pregnant or breastfeeding
• in a hot environment
• physically active for long periods
• ill or recovering from illness

Can Drinking Water Reduce Dark Circles?

Dark circles under the eyes are a common issue, often blamed on lack of sleep, stress, or aging. While numerous eye creams promise amazing results, the power of hydration is often overlooked. Can drinking water really help reduce dark circles?

Why Do Dark Circles Appear?

Dark circles result from the thin skin under the eyes revealing blood vessels more clearly. Factors like sleep deprivation, aging, and genetics can make them more noticeable.

Beyond Drinking Water

Hydration isn’t just about drinking water. Foods with high water content, such as cucumbers, watermelon, and oranges, as well as herbal teas and infused waters, also contribute to hydration.

Additional Tips

• Quality Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of restful sleep each night to allow your skin to repair.
• Comprehensive Skincare: Combine hydration with good sleep, a balanced diet, and effective topical treatments for the best results.

For personalised advice, book a Skin Consultation with one of our Experts, or call us at 01932 553118.

Higher is not always better… This week, we wanted to share this fantastic BLOG from our friends at Alumier. We are incredibly happy that we have Alumier products at Reigate Laser Clinic

There are so many sunscreens available now – and they’re all labelled with lots of confusing information – so it’s easy to just reach for the one that looks like it has the highest protection. SPF 50 is higher than 30 and 40, so that’s better, right? Not always. Sorry to disrupt your brainwaves, BUT if SPF is the only thing you think about when it comes to defending your skin against the damaging impact of the sun and environment, we’re here to tell you “think wider…”

The negative effects of the sun’s rays (the degradation of skin health, advanced signs of ageing to name a few and lest we forget skin cancer) come from a multitude of rays, not just burning UVB rays. What about environmental damage? What about the full spectrum of light that comes from the sun including UVA, blue light and infrared? There’s also free radicals and pollution to consider, too.

SPF is important, but not the only thing that you need to be looking for in a sunscreen, it turns out choosing a high SPF isn’t a shortcut to total skin protection. So, let’s find out what is.
 

WHAT DOES “SPF” MEAN?

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and in short, it’s a measure of the length of time your skin can last without burning. For example, if you have very fair skin and you burn within one minute of standing in the sun, put on SPF 10 and you’ll be able to stay in the sun for 10 minutes without burning. SPF 30 = 30 minutes and so on. The difference between them is actually quite minimal… let us explain. SPF 30 blocks out 96.7% of UVB radiation, SPF 40 blocks out 97.5% of UVB radiation and SPF 50 blocks 98%.

SPF IS important because UVB rays can damage skin health, but they can be blocked by clouds. They’re only around on very sunny days, making up 5% of the UV rays that reach the earth’s surface.

We refer to UVA rays as ‘stealth ray’. They travel through clouds and glass, and they’re present 365 days a year. These long light waves can penetrate through to the deep layers of skin where they can cause collagen and elastin degradation. Lines, wrinkles, discolouration… the works. FYI – A sunscreen’s SPF doesn’t measure its ability to protect against UVA, so if you’re only looking at SPF, you need to zoom out… way out.
 

PROTECTING AGAINST THE ENVIRONMENT

There are two main filters used in SPF products – chemical and physical.

With AlumierMD, they chose to formulate with physical sunscreens only, specifically, zinc oxide and titanium dioxide because they protect against both long UVA and short UVB rays. They work, in the main, by sitting on top of the skin reflecting the light away, so it doesn’t degrade by doing its job. Therefore, once you put it on you are protected until you take it off.

Each of the sunscreens offers high-performance daily protection by going beyond the science of skin defence. Think power antioxidants, vitamin C and super hydrators sodium hyaluronate and hyaluronic acid.
 

Formulating sunscreens that you WANT to wear

White coats at the ready!

Let’s all imagine we’re chemists formulating with the sunscreen filters zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, there’s a lot to think about. Photostability? Frequency of application? Spectrum of protection? Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide aces them all. Plus, they are the only two sunscreen filters generally recognised as safe and effective (GRAS) certified by the FDA.

They are both thick white minerals, meaning chemists will have a job to get a high SPF that feels nice to wear, without chemicals. You’ll often see that high SPFs have a blend of physical and chemical filters. We have pushed our SPFs to SPF 40 or SPF 42 which is as high as we could get them without leaving a white cast or adding chemical filters. And we’ve done it! They feel so lightweight and comfortable, 90% of people* said their skin was more hydrated when using one of our sunscreens.

You might notice a change

Recently the European Commission announced they will only recognise SPF 30 or SPF 50 and not any SPFs in between. So that means our SPF 40 and 42 sunscreens must now say SPF 30 on the bottle, even though the percentage of protection remains the same and they will continue to be labelled SPF 40 and SPF 42 in the North Americas.

Why didn’t we upgrade to an SPF50? Because it would only offer 0.5% more protection, would be unpleasant to use if we didn’t add chemical filters and SPF only speaks to one portion of environmental protection required to protect the longevity of skin health.

So, between a basic formula with high SPF, and a hard-working hybrid sunscreen, with robust filters, that protects against all six environmental aggressors (UVB, UVA, pollution, free radicals, infrared and blue light) PLUS tippling up as your hydrating serum and foundation or tinted moisturiser…

Your pro can help you find your perfect match with personalised sunscreen recommendations for your individual skin needs and as ever, please get in touch or book in with one of our Experts here, if you want to have a quick chat, please do give us a call on 01932 553118.