Is Spring UV Really That Intense?! Skip Sun Protection Now and Risk Spots and Sagging
As spring arrives and the weather warms up, opportunities to go outside increase. However, there’s something you need to watch out for: “UV rays.” Many people assume summer is the only season for sun protection, but spring UV is actually very strong too, and letting your guard down can lead to skin trouble. This article explains in detail the effects of spring UV rays and the sun protection measures you can start taking right now.
Why Spring UV Rays Are Dangerous
There are several reasons why spring UV rays are so strong.
①UV levels rise sharply UV levels are relatively low during winter, but they increase rapidly in spring. Especially from March to May, UV levels rise dramatically, and by May they can reach nearly the same level as midsummer.
②More time is spent outdoors With spring’s pleasant temperatures, time spent outdoors increases with activities like cherry blossom viewing, picnics, and other outdoor activities. As a result, the amount of time you unknowingly spend exposed to UV rays also increases.
③Skin isn’t used to UV exposure Because UV levels are low during winter, the skin’s defensive function weakens. The skin is also often somewhat dry, leaving it in an unstable state during this seasonal transition. Suddenly being exposed to strong UV rays in that condition tends to cause greater damage to the skin.
Skin Troubles Caused by UV Rays
Exposure to UV rays can cause a variety of skin troubles.
1. Spots and Freckles
When exposed to UV rays, the skin produces melanin pigment to defend itself. However, continued excessive UV exposure causes melanin to build up, leading to spots and freckles.
2. Sagging and Wrinkles
UV rays, especially UVA rays, reach deep into the skin and break down collagen and elastin. This causes the skin to lose its elasticity, leading to sagging and wrinkles.
3. Skin Dryness
UV rays strip moisture from the skin and weaken its barrier function. As a result, the skin becomes dry and more vulnerable to external irritants. Combined with pollen, this can also cause itchiness or unexplained redness and rough skin.
UV Protection Measures You Can Start Now
It’s important to start protecting your skin from spring UV rays right away. Let’s protect your skin thoroughly using the following methods.
1. Apply Sunscreen Every Day
The basics of sun protection start with applying sunscreen.
Check the SPF and PA SPF is an indicator of protection against UV-B, while PA indicates protection against UV-A. In spring, it’s ideal to choose a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and PA+++ or higher. Reapply frequently Applying it only once in the morning won’t maintain its effectiveness. Reapply every 2–3 hours.
2. Make Use of Hats and Sunglasses
Sunscreen alone can’t completely block UV rays. Using hats and sunglasses to physically block UV rays is also effective.
Wide-brimmed hats Ideally ones that can cover your face and neck as well. UV-blocking sunglasses Since UV rays are also absorbed through the eyes, wearing sunglasses can help prevent this.
3. Wear UV-Blocking Clothing
UV rays affect the skin by hitting it directly. Choose clothing with UV-blocking properties to protect your skin.
UV-blocking fabric clothing Clothing with UV-blocking features is especially useful in spring, when thinner clothing becomes more common.
Arm covers and stoles Covering exposed areas like the arms and neck is even more effective.
4. Protect Against UV From the Inside With Diet
To reduce UV damage, it’s also important to actively eat foods with antioxidant properties.
Vitamin C (citrus fruits, bell peppers, strawberries) Suppresses melanin production.
Vitamin E (almonds, avocado, sunflower oil) Prevents skin oxidation and aging.
Beta-carotene (carrots, pumpkin, spinach) Boosts the skin’s immune function.
5. Thoroughly Moisturize
Skin that has been exposed to UV rays tends to become dry. Moisturize thoroughly to strengthen your skin’s barrier function.
Hydrate with lotion Ones containing hyaluronic acid or ceramide are great.
Seal it in with emulsion or cream Cover thoroughly with oil-based products to keep moisture from escaping.
At our clinic, we use electroporation to reach not just the surface of the skin but also the dermis layer that lotion alone can’t reach,
and we recommend electroporation for delivering nutrients thoroughly✨
Summary
Spring UV rays are stronger than you might think, and letting your guard down can lead to spots and sagging. Be mindful of early sun protection to keep your skin healthy and beautiful. By combining measures such as applying sunscreen, using hats and sunglasses, wearing UV-blocking clothing, caring for your skin from the inside through diet, and moisturizing thoroughly, you can effectively prevent UV damage.
Enjoy the spring sunshine while still taking thorough sun protection measures to keep your skin beautiful.
