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Couch Conversations Episode 5: Essential Skin Care & Sun Protection 

By Daniella Frymer

| 1 November 2024

In episode 5 of Couch Conversations, Phytoceutics CEO Laura sat down with Dr. Donald Fick, a renowned GP and key opinion leader for skincare brand Bioderma, to explore skin health from multiple angles.

Couch Conversations Episode 5: Essential Skin Care & Sun Protection 

In episode 5 of Couch Conversations, Phytoceutics CEO Laura sat down with Dr. Donald Fick, a renowned GP and key opinion leader for skincare brand Bioderma, to explore skin health from multiple angles.
Essential Skin Care & Sun Protection Blog Thumbnail Image

The engaging discussion covers sun protection strategies, lifestyle habits, mental health connections, and practical skin care tips, offering a comprehensive view of how to care for your skin beyond the basics.     

Key Episode Highlights: 

Sun Protection Beyond Sunscreen 

Donald led the conversation by emphasising how protecting your skin from sun damage goes beyond sunscreen application. While sunscreen is essential, he recommended a more holistic approach with simple habits, such as wearing hats and sunglasses, seeking shade when possible, and monitoring the UV (ultraviolet) index with weather apps.  

Interestingly, Donald pointed out that UV risks vary by geography. For example, in Europe, UV levels typically peak at around 6, while in South Africa, they can reach between 10-12, significantly increasing the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.   

Understanding UVA and UVB Rays 

UVA (ultraviolet A) rays, which Donald simplified as “A for Ageing”, have a longer wavelength and can penetrate windows and clothing, which may cause wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and deeper skin damage without visible burning.   

UVB rays (ultraviolet B), which Donald simplified as “B for Burn”, have a shorter wavelength and cause sunburn and are more prevalent during peak midday hours.   

He noted that even short exposures, such as a 17-minute car ride, can contribute to cumulative sun damage through UVA rays, making year-round sun protection critical.   

Skin Care Routines and Lifestyle Tips 

Dr. Donny recommended building a simple yet effective skin care routine to protect the skin barrier and reduce flare-ups. Key practices recommended include:   

  • Using moisturisers with ceramides to protect the skin barrier and maintain hydration   
  • Avoiding inflammatory foods such as high sugars and processed dairy   
  • Incorporating exercise for both physical and mental health   

He also stressed the importance of holistic care, noting that lifestyle habits, mental well-being, and skin health are interconnected, and treatment plans should address all these aspects.   

Choosing the Right Sunscreen: SPF, Ingredients, and Application 

There’s more to picking sunscreen than just the SPF number. Here’s what you should keep in mind:   

1. SPF Levels: 30 vs. 50   

  • Donny suggested choosing SPF 50+ for enhanced protection. While SPF 30 is effective, the higher SPF offers a stronger barrier against harmful rays. 
  • More important than SPF alone is consistent reapplication every 2 hours, especially during prolonged sun exposure.   

2. UVA and UVB Filters 

  •  Donny emphasised how critical it is to look for sunscreens with broad-spectrum protection (both UVA and UVB filters).   
  •  For extra protection, ensure the sunscreen you choose covers ultra-long UVA rays that can penetrate deeper and cause cell damage. 

Supplements for Healthy Skin: What Works? 

When asked about which supplements to take for skin health, Laura highlighted the potential benefits of vitamin C, astaxanthin, and curcumin due to their powerful antioxidant properties that hold multiple health benefits for the skin: 

  • Vitamin C: Helps neutralise free radicals caused by UV exposure and therefore can promote a reduction in inflammation of the skin due to its antioxidant properties. Vitamin C also contributes to collagen production that may promote skin elasticity and vitality. 
  • Astaxanthin / Krill Oil: A potent antioxidant that may shield the skin from UV-induced damage by neutralising free radicals, therefore reducing oxidative stress and inflammation that contribute to redness and irritation. 
  • Curcumin: Antioxidant properties offer anti-inflammatory benefits and can therefore reduce skin inflammation and may promote skin repair. 

Marketing Hype and Misinformation in Skin Care and Supplements 

With so much information (and misinformation) circulating on social media, Donny explained how easy it is to get caught up in trends. However, health is not one-size-fits-all, and both skin care and supplements need to be tailored to suit individual needs.   

Navigating skin care and skin health can be overwhelming, but the key is to find effective and protective products that suit your body and lifestyle while consulting with trusted professionals. As Dr Donny emphasised, there is no magic pill for perfect skin- consistency and proper care are what make a difference! 

Timestamps: 

01:15 Sun protection tips 

02:38 The difference between UVA and UVB rays—and what they do to your skin

05:35 The connection between mental health struggles and chronic skin conditions
07:43 Advice for the treatment for skin conditions and promoting healthy skin 

11: 24 Finding a good skin care routine 
12:06 The emerging role of probiotics in skin care and mental health

17:07 SPF 30 vs. SPF 50: Which one is best? 
19:50 Supplements for skin health 
25:17 Managing expectations: Balancing social media advice with expert opinions 

Watch the full video on our YouTube channel and use the code “COUCHCONVERSATIONS” for R100 off your next Phytoceutics® order! 

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