Why SPF Is Essential for Protecting the Skin Moisture Barrier
Overview
Key facts
- Daily sunscreen usage can help prevent a compromised skin moisture barrier caused by exposure to harmful UVA and UVB rays.
- There are two types of sun filters used in sunscreen products: mineral (which forms a physical barrier on your skin to help reflect UV rays) and chemical (which helps absorb UV rays).
- In Australia, it’s recommended you wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 50 every day, year-round.
- Research shows that using a broad-spectrum sunscreen helps maintain the skin moisture barrier and helps prevent some signs of skin ageing.
What is the skin moisture barrier?
The skin moisture barrier (also known as the stratum corneum) is your skin’s first line of defense against the outside world. This outermost layer of skin is made up of about 50% ceramides, 25% cholesterol, and 10-25% fatty acids. The skin moisture barrier has many important functions, but first and foremost, it works to help keep beneficial substances in your skin and harmful elements out. By creating a barrier that blocks environmental aggressors from entering and retaining water in the skin, the skin moisture barrier plays a key role in how your skin looks and feels.
How does sun exposure affect your moisture barrier?
Research shows that UV radiation can disrupt your skin moisture barrier both directly and indirectly. Directly, UV rays can damage your skin cells—and this damage accumulates over time. Exposure to UV radiation may also reduce your skin’s ability to hold onto moisture effectively (increases trans epidermal water loss), which leads to dry, dehydrated skin. Indirectly, exposure to UV radiation can generate free radicals, unstable molecules that can damage skin cells and may potentially contribute to premature skin ageing and certain skin conditions.
What else can compromise the skin moisture barrier?
In addition to sun exposure, your moisture barrier can also be compromised by:
- Certain climate conditions (like low humidity)
- Using harsh cleansers
- Over-exfoliating your skin
- Improper skincare practices
- Lack of hydration from skipping moisturiser
Signs of a compromised skin moisture barrier
A compromised skin moisture barrier can be linked to numerous skin concerns. Some signs that could point to a compromised moisture barrier include:
- Significant dryness
- Discomfort and increased skin sensitivity
- A dull or lacklustre complexion
- Loss of skin elasticity
- Breakouts
How does SPF help protect your skin moisture barrier?
The SPF in sunscreen supports your skin moisture barrier by absorbing or reflecting UV radiation, helping to minimise the effects that UV rays can have on the outer layer of the skin. Of course, it’s important you're using the right sunscreen.
How to select the right sunscreen for your skin moisture barrier
The right sunscreen for you is a personal preference, but there are a few key features to look out for when shopping for a new sunscreen.
- Always use broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 50 or higher
- Look for fragrance-free formulas that are gentle on the skin and developed with dermatologists
- It’s a good idea to patch test your sunscreen before regular use. This is to ensure you’re happy with the look and feel of the product.
- Nourish the skin with products containing ceramides to strengthen the moisture barrier.
Wear high SPF sunscreen daily and reapply often!
It’s important to wear sunscreen every day, no matter the weather or time of year. Australia especially has much higher levels of UV radiation, and even intermittent sun exposure can accumulate over time. Make sure to always read the label and follow directions for use of any sunscreen. Apply 20 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every 2 hours before and after swimming, towelling and perspiring.