The latest numbers in the weather report? Some 30 and upward degrees of sheer, blistering heat. Coupled with a heavy humidity and the potential drizzle. Consider us all at its unforgiving mercy, no matter how much we may attempt to escape its wrath. Making plans to stay indoors as much as possible surely might save us from its relentless torment, but the like-minded would be in the know: UV rays will find a way to do its damage still. With its long run effects running the gamut from hyperpigmentation to the risk of skin cancer, it’s only apt that we’re choosing to be extra cautious amid the soaring temperatures recently.
Whilst the hermit life does indeed sound appealing to some of us (for more reasons than we’ll let on), we do not all have the privilege of its impracticality. In fact, we’re also moving into the prime time of year for beachside lounging, nature trails and any sort of outdoor life, which would have been less possible in the torrential rain of the months past. A healthy amount of vitamin D should always also be par for the course. “Insufficient sunlight exposure can result in vitamin D deficiency, a crucial nutrient essential for various physiological processes,” reminds Dr Sylvia Ramirez of Cutis Medical Laser Clinics.
The question remains: how do we seek out that sun-kissed glow and that necessary dose of vitamin D, whilst protecting our skin to the best of our abilities beyond the standard SPF lather?
View this post on Instagram
As always, the beauty-obsessed at Vogue Singapore have you covered on that front. We’ve consulted some of the best experts in town for everything skin-related and we’ve got the lowdown on it all; be it the adverse effects of extended exposure to the sun; the SPF dosages we really need for both our countenance and bodies; and how we can truly seek out the sun safely. Dr Ramirez and Dr Toby Hui of Freia Aesthetics weigh in with their medical advice and top tips on how to beat the heat, below.
What are some of the more unpredictable problems that could surface with extended exposure to the sun, even when we’re not doing outdoor activities?
When it comes to UV rays, it’s important to understand that UVB is the chief culprit behind sunburn, while UVA, which penetrates deeper into the skin, causes more of the long-term effects, according to Dr Hui. “Sun damage is cumulative. A few minutes of damage everyday will lead to a lot of problems for our skin later on in life.”
Dr Ramirez also cautions us against the misconception of safety indoors, as prolonged exposure to sunlight carries inherent risks that extend beyond outdoor activities. “Scientific evidence underscores several consequences of extended sun exposure even indoors,” she adds. “This includes photoaging that will manifest in the form of ‘sunspots’ or ‘age spots’, indicative of cumulative damage to skin cells resulting in premature wrinkles, fine lines, and uneven pigmentation.”
Beyond the appearance of our skin, Dr Ramirez also raises other potential effects. More temporary heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heat stroke are inevitably in the cards, whilst ocular damage such as increased risk of cataracts or macular degeneration might occur in the long run. There’s also the risk of skin cancer: “Prolonged exposure—no matter whether you are outdoors or indoors—will lead to the accumulation of DNA damage in skin cells, elevating the risk of skin cancer development.”
How would you then recommend we get a healthy amount of vitamin D whilst protecting ourselves during this time of the year?
Both doctors speak wonders of the merits in embracing the golden hour: “Maximise your vitamin D synthesis while mitigating the risk of UV-induced skin damage by strategically timing sun exposure during the golden hour—preferably in the early morning or late afternoon when UV radiation is comparatively lower. This approach minimises UVB exposure, crucial for vitamin D production, while reducing the potential for UV-related skin injury,” explains Dr Ramirez.
Alternatively, there are stylish yet effective measures which Dr Ramirez recommends. Wardrobe staples during this time of year might include broad-brimmed hats, parasols, and umbrellas, which would serve as physical barriers, attenuating UV penetration and diminishing the risk of DNA damage and photoaging. “Fashion-forward sunglasses equipped with lenses that provide 100% UV protection would not only shield our delicate eyes from harmful UV radiation but also reduces the likelihood of cataracts, macular degeneration, and other UV-associated eye conditions,” she adds. Should you really wish to go a step further, there’s the option to embrace Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) clothing that have been designed to block harmful UV rays.
View this post on Instagram
Of course, the most important tip would be layering on the SPF. “The truth is, anyone over the age of six months should use sunscreen daily, and this is especially true during the sun soaked months of summer. Skin protection is a 365-day job, and not simply for vanity’s sake,” states Dr Hui. “Prioritise photo protection through the regular application of a high SPF broad-spectrum sunscreen, particularly following water exposure or perspiration,” emphasises Dr Ramirez.
Let’s talk sunscreen. Is there a recommended amount of sunscreen we should actually be applying, or reapplying?
According to Dr Ramirez, a systematic approach to sunscreen application is essential. “Apply about two milligrams of sunscreen per square centimetre of skin. For the face and body, this translates to two tablespoons or the volume of a “shot glass”. For the face alone, use a dollop the size of an average 20-cent coin. With spray-on sunscreens, apply until the skin has an even sheen. It is important to allocate sufficient attention to neglected areas such as the ears, neck, hands, and feet, as UV radiation can penetrate these regions and induce skin damage too,” recommends Dr Ramirez.
Dr Hui also recommends oral supplements to work around the greasy feel of constant SPF reapplication. “Even though the same sun protection rules that apply to our face also applies to our body, it’s sometimes difficult to slather on a thick layer of sunscreen on our body; especially in our hot, humid climate. For this reason, oral sunscreen supplements are a more practical mode of protection to complement the topical lotions,” suggests Dr Hui. “Taking an oral supplement like Heliocare 360 or Heliocare Ultra every four hours allows us to keep our body and face protected and is a great complement to topical sunscreens.”
“Reapplications using SPF mists or sprays offer both convenience and efficacy in maintaining continuous protection against UV radiation. These formulations not only provide a refreshing burst of hydration but also seamlessly replenish your sun defence without compromising your make-up or beach-ready appearance,” says Dr Ramirez.
View this post on Instagram
But putting sunscreen only in the morning simply won’t cut it for all-day protection—it’s all about timing. “Apply your sunscreen 30 minutes before heading outdoors, then reapply again every two hours, especially right after swimming or sweating. Even ‘water-resistant’ sunscreens offer only up to 40 or 80 minutes of protection whilst you’re in the water,” she cautions.
What should we look out for when shopping for sunscreens? Do you have any personal recommendations?
“Consider the Sun Protection Factor (SPF), which indicates the level of protection against UVB rays. SPF 15 filters out approximately 93% of UVB rays, SPF 30 blocks about 97%, and SPF 50 prevents approximately 98% of UVB radiation. Opt for a water-resistant formula with an SPF of at least 30 for extended outdoor activities,” explains Dr Ramirez. “Ensure the sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection, safeguarding against both UVA and UVB rays,” she adds.
Beyond SPF and broad-spectrum coverage, Dr Ramirez also advises one to assess the active ingredients listed on the label. “For sensitive skin, opt for physical filters like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are less likely to cause irritation compared to chemical ingredients,” she explains. “Those with sensitive skin should stick to a mineral sunscreen with physical filters. These sunscreens tend to be thicker as they do not penetrate our skin, hence why you need a thick layer of it,” adds Dr Hui.
Dr Hui’s personal recommendation would be the Crystal Tomato Beyond Sun Protection for the mien, and the Heliocare Pediatrics Atopic Lotion Spray SPF 50 for body use. But ultimately, the best sunscreen is the one that you’ll find yourself constantly reaching out for every day. By way of parting words? “Find one with a texture that works for you and stick to it. Using the right amounts of it (hint: copious amounts) is the way to go. So block up and brighten up,” says Dr Hui.
