Is good skin hereditary, is a question we often discuss with clients at our Stourbridge Clinic. How is it that some people are blessed with clear skin while others struggle with acne? And why do some people seem to be more susceptible to lines and wrinkles, while others are able to maintain more of a youthful look?
Is good skin hereditary?
We’d love to be able to tell you we have the answers to this, along with why some people can sleep with a full face of makeup and suffer no ill effects while others still battle with breakouts despite being super careful with their skincare routines.
We do know that the UVA and UVB rays from the sun can have an effect on the rate at which our skin ages. During a recent trip to Australia, I was very impressed at the number of people who were visibly taking care of their skin and keeping covered up with hats, swimwear, and rash vests. They were clearly making a big effort to stay out of the sun and its harmful rays.
It goes without saying that living in closer proximity to the sun, and in a country blessed with hot weather, you’re going to be at a greater risk of premature aging. People living in these countries tend to be far more sun aware than the likes of us Brits, who don’t get to see as much sunshine and fine weather.
Sunny days bring with them UVB rays; this is the bright sunshine we see in the sky and feel on our skin. UVB rays give us a tan or cause the skin to burn if you have a lighter skin or haven’t slathered on enough protection in the form of a broad spectrum sun block.
On dull cloudy days, like those we experience here in the UK, we have more UVA rays which are arguably more dangerous as you can’t see or feel them. UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and can damage the collagen fibres which are there to strengthen and support the skin. Collagen is important to the skin, encouraging plumpness and reducing fine lines and wrinkles.
So perhaps there is an element of genetic influence in how we age, how our skin reacts to the sun and how it reacts to products and treatments. But there is also a great deal to be said about being skin aware, sun aware and savvy with what skincare products you’re using.
Skin Care
The seasons have an impact on our skin; there’s just no getting away from that fact. In the summer, people often struggle with excess oil production from the heat and sweat and with that can also come spots and breakouts.
In the winter people tend to suffer more from dryness, whether that is patches on the cheeks, nose or chin, or chapped lips. People tend to suffer far less with oiliness in the colder months when the weather is cooler and there is less moisture in the air.
Holidays and Skin care
Of course, there are many people who escape the winter like we did and head off to warmer climates. Australia was quite an extreme and we were in the tropical northeast of the country too. Stepping onto a plane for an extended period of time and then entering a hot country can be harsh on your skin, especially if you have a sensitive or reactive skin type.
I made sure I packed plenty of products to protect my skin barrier and this is what I recommend all of my clients do too. Protection and prevention is key and keeping skin safe from the damaging rays of the sun is important whether you are visiting a hot country or spending time on the slopes.
You’re also exposed to sun and skin damage if you’re planning to hit the slopes on a winter ski trip. Though most of your body will be covered with ski clothing, your face is still exposed and very susceptible, particularly as the sun’s rays don’t feel as harsh when the heat isn’t beating down on you.
Protect your skin and stay safe in the sun.
Though genetics do play a part, the best way you can stay safe in the sun, reduce signs of ageing and help prevent fine lines and skin damage is by using a good skincare routine which includes an SPF. If you’re heading off on holiday over Easter, whether it’s to bask in the sunshine or whizz down the slopes, make sure you pack some products to protect your skin and fight off the signs of ageing.
For my trip to Australia, I packed: Dermaviduals Cleansing Milk, Prescriptive Serum, and Vitamin Cream and my Colour Science SPF 50
If you’d like to book an appointment at our Stourbridge Clinic to discuss your skin so you can be the best version of yourself, please get in touch via email info@tejandco.co.uk or call 01384 824039
