Infrared Radiation from the Sun Can Accelerate Skin Aging More Than UVA and UVB Rays

Current technology has allowed scientists to recognize that, besides the sun’s UVA and UVB rays, more than half of the solar energy skin receives is from IRA (Infrared Radiation) rays.

Gina Picart and Dr. Dwight Korgan encourage you to protect your skin against harmful sun rays that can damage your skin and possibly cause skin cancer.

With about 3.5 million cases in over two million people diagnosed annually, skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. Fortunately, skin cancer is also one of the most preventable forms of cancer. May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, and Dr. Dwight Korgan of A New Image Cosmetic Laser Centers, LLC will help by educating us about Infrared Radiation rays, a product recommendation and dispel some common myths about sunscreen.
What is Infrared Radiation rays (IR rays)?  These rays can come from less obvious places and travel even deeper into the skin than UVA and UVB rays, causing free radicals that further accelerate skin aging.  IRA wavelengths are much longer than those within the UV spectrum and therefore penetrate more deeply into the skin layers.  When an object is not quite hot enough to radiate visible light, it will emit most of its energy in the infrared.  For example, hot charcoal may not give off light but it does emit infrared radiation which we feel as heat.  The warmer the object, the more infrared radiation it emits.  This makes additional chromospheres and dermal fibroblasts, which are critical for structural integrity of the skin and dermal elasticity, prime targets of this form of radiant energy.  What you’re left with are fine lines and wrinkles no matter how much “traditional” sunscreen you apply.  A good article that explains this further can be found at http://www.alpharnd.com/articles/articles/shred_files/TheSunscreenFiler0312.pdf.
Understanding adequate protection is crucial.  “Commonly, we think we have enough protection if our regular make up contains a sunscreen. The reality is that we would have to wear at least 7 to 10 times more make up to actually get the correct amount of sun protection,” said Gina Picart, medical aesthetician and laser technician, at A New Image.  “That would be more make up than anyone would possibly want to see! So far as sunscreen for our bodies in the summertime, we would have to apply a minimum factor of SPF 30 to 50 several times during the day.  It’s better to upgrade your sunscreen technology and use a more inclusive product for protection.”
Most mainstream sunscreens have not yet been formulated to protect skin from IR rays.  However, Obagi, a professional skin care line, has created a sun shield that offers protection from all three skin damaging rays, UVA, UVB and IR… It’s called, Obagi’s Sun Shield Tint Broad Spectrum SPF 50 and Sun Shield Matte SPF 50 with Infrared Defense.  “This product uses zinc oxide and thermic micro-shield crystals that disperse heat at the skin surface so sun damage doesn’t go so deep,” said Dr. Korgan.  “This product helps buffer the skin from heat-derived oxidation, supports skin’s resiliency against IR radiation and is hypoallergenic and dermatologist tested.”  It is available in “Warm” or “Cool” tints.  It is non-greasy, PABA-free, and fragrance-free formula that applies completely sheer in an elegant matte finish.
I have personally tried the “cool – tinted” product under my daily make up.  It goes and smoothly and absorbs quickly. It didn’t leave my skin feeling oily or greasy.
Say “Hello” to more beautiful and healthier skin.  A New Image Cosmetic Laser Center offers a full range of medical aesthetic services including:  Botox, fillers, laser hair removal, laser vein therapy, Laser Genesis skin therapy, Limelight Photofacials, Pearl Fractional, microdermabrasion, facials and peels.  All services are performed in their medical office by highly trained technicians.  Dr. Korgan is on premise to assist with various treatments as needed.