Hassle-Free Textures
Traditionally, sunscreens came in either cream,
lotion or gel textures as these were thought to
be the best carriers for UV filters and were
relatively fool-proof to apply. However, the
more sun-savvy we have become, the less both-
ered we can be to apply a sufficient amount of
sunscreen at regular intervals throughout the
day. The answer to this laziness lies in a new
trend for sunscreens with hassle-free textures
that make applying and reapplying SPF quicker
than brushing your teeth. We’re talking mineral
brush-on powders, weightless water sprays,
tactile foams and aerosol mists that provide
reliable protection without the effort.
Health Monitoring Apps
In a similar vein to wearable technology, more
and more smartphone apps are being developed
to help tackle and prevent one of the most
serious side effects of unprotected sun exposure
– skin cancer. More specifically, the monitoring
of moles on the face and body. Melanoma – a
type of cancer that develops in the melanocytes
– is now the third most common type of skin
cancer in the UK, and the best way to spot it
early is to keep track of your moles. Changes
in a mole’s size, colour and shape are usually
signs that something isn’t right, with the NHS
recommending a visit to your doctor if you
notice any or all of these changes. However,
remembering what each and every mole on
your body looks like isn’t easy, which is why
apps like SkinVision and MiiSkin (which is
supported by the British Skin Foundation) are
proving so useful, as they allow the user to
photograph and catalogue their moles on their
smartphone. These apps then remind you when
to check these moles again and, in the case of
the SkinVision app, actually assess any moles
you have concerns about. The app also tells you
the local UV forecast, so you can determine
how high or low the UV levels are for that day,
so you can adapt your sunscreen application
accordingly. The UV Index Widget app is also
great for this. It can also notify you when UV
levels have reached or surpassed a certain level,
for example, when the UV level is high and the
chance of skin damage is greatly increased.
With such innovative and interesting advances
in sun safety, there will soon be no excuse for
not protecting your skin.
ISSUE #08 | 2018 | SkinHealthMagazine.com 7