National Skincare Education Day: All about full light technology

Full light technology effectively prevents uneven tanning, pigmentation, and premature aging resulting from sun exposure
The summer sun may be inviting, but its harsh rays can wreak havoc on our skin. While we often focus on UV protection, it's crucial to understand that UV rays represent only a small portion of the sun's spectrum. The remaining 95% comprises Visible Light and Infrared rays (IR), which can penetrate deep into the skin, causing damage at the cellular level.This damage manifests as inflammation, photoaging, and even skin cancer.
This National Skincare Education Day, Dr. Aparna Santhanam dives into what full light technology is, how it helps safeguard your skin, and why it is a summer essential for all skin types:
What is full light technology?
Full Light Technology is a revolutionary advancement in sun protection that goes beyond traditional UV filters. It incorporates a combination of advanced ingredients and technologies to provide a comprehensive shield against the entire solar spectrum, including UVA, UVB, Infrared, and Visible Light. This multi-pronged approach helps neutralize free radicals, prevent tanning and pigmentation, and combat the harmful effects of IR and visible light, ultimately protecting your skin from premature aging and sun damage.
Why full light technology is essential
Traditional sunscreens primarily target UV rays, leaving our skin vulnerable to the rest of the solar spectrum. Dr. Aparna Santhanam emphasizes the importance of comprehensive protection, saying, "Full Light Technology is a game-changer in sun protection. By shielding the skin from the sun's entire spectrum, it goes beyond traditional UV filters to combat tanning, pigmentation, and premature aging. This comprehensive defense helps maintain healthy, youthful skin, even with regular sun exposure." By incorporating Full Light Technology, sunscreens offer a more robust defense against the following:
UVA and UVB protection: Full Light Technology incorporates photostable filters that neutralize free radicals, preventing tanning and sun-induced aging.
Infrared radiation defense: IR rays contribute significantly to skin damage. Full Light Technology inhibits this damage, protecting your skin from its harmful effects.
Visible light protection: Visible light penetrates deep into the skin, generating free radicals and contributing to aging. Full Light Technology's cytoprotective action shields your skin from this damage.
Benefits of full light technology sunscreens:
Comprehensive protection: By blocking the entire solar spectrum, Full Light Technology sunscreens offer superior protection against tanning, pigmentation, photoaging, and sun damage.
Lightweight and comfortable: Unlike traditional high SPF sunscreens that tend to be oily and patchy, Full Light Technology sunscreens are often formulated to be lightweight and non-greasy, making them comfortable to wear even in humid climates.
Suitable for all skin types: Full Light Technology sunscreens are often fragrance-free and enriched with antioxidants like Vitamin E, making them gentle and suitable for sensitive skin.
Some expert tips for optimal protection from your sunscreen:
Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with full light technology: "To choose the 'right' sunscreen, one must know its benefits. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to shield your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. Additionally, look for water-resistant formulations, especially in India's humid climate, to maintain protection while sweating or swimming.” Dr. Santhanam adds, “Selecting a sunscreen equipped with Full Light Technology becomes imperative. This advanced feature not only shields against UVA and UVB rays but also provides defence against harmful infrared rays and visible light.” She goes on, “By employing this technology, it effectively combats tanning, stubborn pigmentation, and premature aging resulting from sun exposure.”
Check the SPF and PA rating: "When selecting a sunscreen, don't just look at the SPF number," advises Dr. Aparna Santhanam, Dermatologist and Skin Care Expert. "Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and a PA+++ rating to ensure comprehensive protection against both UVA and UVB rays."
Reapplication is key: "Sunscreen's effectiveness diminishes over time, so reapplication is crucial," emphasizes Dr. Santhanam. "Reapply every two hours, especially after swimming, sweating, or towel drying, to maintain optimal sun protection throughout the day."
Don't be stingy with the quantity: "Don't be shy with the amount of sunscreen you apply to your face and body," advises Dr. Santhanam. "Apply a generous amount to all exposed skin areas, including often-missed spots like the ears, neck, and scalp. Remember, a thin layer won't provide adequate protection."
Choose a matte sunscreen: When looking for a sunscreen, Dr Santhanam recommends, “choose for a matte sunscreen that provides comprehensive protection against the full solar spectrum, including UV, IR, and Visible radiation and one that’s lightweight and comfortable. This solution effectively tackles the typical problem of high SPF products being oily and patchy.”
By incorporating Full Light technology sunscreens into your skincare routine, you can enjoy the summer sun while safeguarding your skin's health and beauty.
Inputs Dr. Aparna Santhanam, Dermatologist and Skin care Expert, ITC Dermafique