Latest news with #TheSkinDiary
Refinery29
18 hours ago
- Health
- Refinery29
Those Red Light Sunbeds You're Seeing Everywhere? Yeah, They're A Scam
Welcome to Sun Blocked, Refinery29's global call to action to wake up to the serious dangers of tanning. No lectures or shaming, we promise. Instead, our goal is to arm you with the facts you need to protect your skin to the best of your ability, because there's no such thing as safe sun. 'They are much safer as the red light has the opposite effect of [UV], it protects your skin.' I wince as I read this. I'm exchanging emails with 19-year-old Crisiant, who uses a red light tanning bed roughly every six weeks. Last year, she discovered that a tanning salon in her area had two of these beds, and she assumed they would be better for her skin. These machines‚ also known as collagen-boosting sunbeds, combine ultraviolet (UV) light — which tans the skin — with tubes that emit red light. Even if you've never stepped inside one, you've probably seen red light before. From LED face masks to full-body treatments that immerse the skin in red light, these devices have become skincare staples, promising to boost collagen, reduce acne and heal skin. ' Collagen sunbeds make no logical sense at all. Sunbeds that deliver UV radiation are harmful and cause skin cancers, full stop. Cloaking them as something good for your skin health is totally disingenuous. Dr Clare Kiely, consultant dermatologist ' Later, on the phone, it sounds like Crisiant is well aware of the dangers of regular sunbeds. She first tried one aged 18, but learning more about the risks put her off: 'If you [use] one now and then, I didn't think it'd be too bad, but I didn't want to do it consistently because I knew how dangerous they were,' she tells me. To Crisiant, red light tanning beds felt different — a little safer: 'It still gives you a tan while doing your skin good,' she says. 'I went on it once and noticed [a difference] within the same day. I had a really bad breakout on my face and it sort of soothed and cleared my skin. It was really strange as sunbeds have never done that for me before.' It also made her feel more confident. It's not hard to see why Crisiant thinks these machines are a safer, even beneficial alternative to regular tanning beds — and she's not the only one. But it highlights worrying misconceptions around red light sunbeds and their damage. Head to TikTok or Instagram, and you'll find countless videos posted by people who are convinced these beds can be used safely and that the risk of burning is lower. But that's not true. Combining red light with UV in a sunbed counteracts any of the potential benefits. Consultant dermatologist Dr Clare Kiely, cofounder of The Skin Diary, puts it plainly: 'Collagen sunbeds make no logical sense at all.' It is important to point out the differences between a red light-only bed and a sunbed that emits both UV and red light. 'Red light therapy without UV is a very different proposition,' confirms consultant dermatologist Dr Derrick Phillips. 'It is generally considered safe and may help with things like inflammation, wound healing and improving overall skin tone. However, the results do tend to be subtle and I always remind patients that it's not a quick fix.' Dr Beibei Du-Harpur, scientific engagement lead at The Skin Diary, agrees: 'More clinical evidence is needed to confirm the effectiveness [of red light] as a treatment for the skin, but there have been promising small studies from a skin ageing perspective.' The bottom line? On its own, red light is low-risk. But its popularity in skincare has made some see red light sunbeds as a good thing. ' Not only does UV increase your risk of skin cancer, it breaks down collagen — the very thing red light is supposed to help boost — and speeds up the skin's ageing process. In other words, any benefits of red light are immediately cancelled out by the UV. ' Are red light sunbeds 'safer' to use than regular sunbeds? The World Health Organisation has classed UV-emitting tanning devices as carcinogenic to humans since 2009. It doesn't matter if UV comes from a sunbed that also emits red light; it still causes damage to our DNA. Not only does UV increase your risk of skin cancer, it breaks down collagen — the very thing red light is supposed to help boost — and speeds up the skin's ageing process. In other words, any benefits of red light are immediately cancelled out by the UV. Dr Kiely says that those who market machines combining UV with collagen-boosting red lights can't have a good understanding of how light affects our skin. Why? It just doesn't make sense: 'Sunbeds that deliver UV radiation are harmful and cause skin cancers, full stop,' she says. 'Cloaking them as something good for your skin health is totally disingenuous.' Dr Phillips agrees and sees no evidence that combining red light with UV neutralises the harm. 'If anything, it gives a misleading impression of safety,' he says. 'These are still sunbeds emitting UV radiation, and they carry all the same risks as traditional tanning beds. From a dermatological perspective, they're just as concerning.' Why do people still use sunbeds despite the dangers? It's difficult to say how many of these red light and UV machines exist, but IBISWorld, a global industry research platform, reports that there were more than 28,000 tanning salons in the United States in 2024. In the UK, it's estimated that there are over 2,000. A quick Google reveals that plenty offer combined UV-red light beds. The reasons why people use beds like these are complex. Bronzed skin remains a beauty ideal, and among younger people, sunbeds are still seen as trendy. Crisiant hints that this is partly why she first tried one: 'You see all the girls getting these sunbeds and a nice tan from it,' she says. 'I feel like sunbeds are that phase that doesn't end for a lot of people.' Some credit sunbeds for boosting their mood. Others believe they help them get enough vitamin D — a proven myth. Another misconception is that they can help improve skin conditions like acne or eczema, but prolonged use of sunbeds can actually worsen these conditions and weaken the skin over time, making it more susceptible to infection. Then there's the theory that using sunbeds occasionally or for short bursts makes it 'safer' — something I thought was true as a teenager. Because sun damage isn't always visible right away, it's easy to underestimate the harm. Even those who understand their risks struggle to stop using them, with some describing themselves as feeling 'addicted'. The idea of sunbeds being most popular with young people is worrying, too. Melanoma Focus estimates that a third of UK 16 and 17-year-olds are using sunbeds illegally. 'I think people really should raise a bit more awareness about [the dangers],' Crisiant says. If sunbeds are so dangerous, why aren't they banned? While sunbeds remain so widely available, often without clearly displayed warnings, there is always a risk that members of the public may assume that they are somewhat safe, else they'd be banned. Refinery29's stance is clear: sunbeds should be banned, as they are in Iran, Brazil and Australia. Just one session before age 35 more than doubles your lifetime risk of melanoma, a skin cancer that can spread to other parts of the body. Red light doesn't change that. That's why many experts support a sunbed ban and agree that the growing trend for red light sunbeds is another reason it's needed: 'The messaging of these collagen-boosting sunbeds confuses those who may not understand the detrimental effects that sunbeds have on our skin,' says Dr Du-Harpur. She adds this is particularly dangerous given beauty standards around having a 'healthy' tan — a phrase that doesn't make any sense when a tan is our skin's damage response to UV. Marketing red light sunbeds as collagen-boosting, she adds, 'will encourage people to risk their health in the name of beauty and present an illusion that it may be safer or different to a conventional UV-focused sunbed.' She stresses, 'Sunbeds aren't safe — with or without red light therapy.' When I ask Crisiant if anything might put her off using a red light tanning bed, she says it's like she has 'a devil and an angel on each shoulder.' She might change her mind one day, but she can't say she'll stop for now. Crisiant isn't against a sunbed ban, though: 'Even though I use them, if they were [banned] I don't think I'd be massively annoyed because I know that the government would be doing it for our benefit,' she says. In June, the UK's All-Party Parliamentary Group for Beauty & Wellbeing launched its UV Safety Inquiry, but little has changed since Refinery29 reported on what it would take for sunbeds to be banned entirely last May. Here, it's illegal for under-18s to use sunbeds, while only a handful of US states have a blanket ban. But if we're serious about tackling rising skin cancer rates, intervention is needed. At the very least, more regulation around any kind of sunbed use, or better yet, a total ban.
Irish Examiner
31-07-2025
- Health
- Irish Examiner
Sally Foran: My pick of August's top new beauty releases
1. Poco Beauty Universal Solar Glow Skin Enhancer SPF 30 A multitasking tinted serum for face and body that bronzes, blurs, hydrates, and protects with broad spectrum SPF 30. Inspired by the award-winning Universal Glow Tint, it delivers a radiant, sun-kissed finish without sun damage. Like all Poco Beauty products, it has a skin-first formula with niacinamide and Vitamin E. This adaptive sheer bronze tint has light-reflecting technology for a natural, luminous glow. Extremely versatile, you can use it alone, mix with foundation or apply over tan. It's vegan, cruelty-free, suitable for all skin types and infused with Poco's signature neroli fragrance. The Skin Diary Age Defence Day Moisturising Cream 2. The Skin Diary Age Defence Day Moisturising Cream A luxurious SPF 50 day cream that delivers triple action protection, DNA repair, advanced sun protection, and antioxidant defence, all in one deeply hydrating, non-greasy formula. Encapsulated sunscreen filters offer ultra-high UVA/UVB protection with zero white cast or greasy residue. DNA repair enzymes repair UV-induced cellular damage, natural antioxidants protect against pollution, oxidative stress and visible light, while liposomal technology ensures even coverage, no systemic absorption, and flawless wear under makeup. It's clinically proven to prevent UV-induced cellular ageing, reduce inflammation and stop the breakdown of collagen and fibrillin. €110, The Institute of Dermatologists. Kinvara Skincare Plant Fibre Sheet Mask 3. Kinvara Skincare Plant Fibre Sheet Mask A hydrating, eco-friendly treatment designed to refresh and brighten dull, tired skin, combining effective skincare with environmentally conscious ingredients. Made from biodegradable plant fibre, it's infused with a serum rich in natural extracts like seaweed and lemon, delivering an instant boost of hydration and radiance. It brightens and evens skin tone with Vitamin C and deeply nourishes with seaweed extract. It's fragrance and essential oil free, making it suitable for sensitive skin. €9.95 for box of 10, Meaghers Pharmacy. Victoria Beckham Beauty Colour Wash 4. Victoria Beckham Beauty Colour Wash A vibrant, water-based, liquid blush designed to deliver a fresh, healthy flush that looks like it comes naturally from within. Inspired by the post-workout glow, Colour Wash provides a weightless, watercolour-like stain that lasts all day, delivers a diffused, soaked-in finish, while a slow-setting stain allows easy blending before it sets. It's infused with activated sea water, vitamin C-rich superfruit extracts, and coconut water for hydration and skin nourishment. It's available in three sheer, buildable shades: Coral, Flushed, (Victoria's signature shade) and Berry. €52, Victoria Beckham Beauty. Benefit Porefessional Foundation 5. Benefit Porefessional Foundation A smoothing, blurring foundation that delivers medium, buildable, weightless coverage with a natural matte finish that lasts 24 hours. It smooths texture, and blurs pores without clogging pores – and claims to improve skin over time. It's also waterproof, transfer-proof, and delivers 24 hour hydration. Suitable for all skin types – normal, sensitive, oily, combination and acne-prone. Enriched with skin-loving niacinamide, which reduces pores and texture, rose hip extract, which smooths skin and glycerin, which locks in moisture. Available in 40 shades. €45, Chanel Serum-in-Mist 6. Chanel Serum-in-Mist A lightweight, on-the-go youth boosting facial mist, powered by red camellia extract —a potent antioxidant known for enhancing skin vitality and defending against oxidative stress. Housed in a sleek, travel-friendly red bottle, it offers hydration, radiance, and protection anytime, anywhere. It can be used before or after makeup, throughout the day. Portable, refreshing, ideal for busy, on-the-go lifestyles it's perfect for quick skin revitalisation, whether at work, travelling, or social events, making it a daily must-have for radiant, protected skin in a single spritz. €106, Brown Thomas. 7. Clarins Total Eye Lift A high-performance eye cream delivering a visible lift in just 30 seconds. Its innovative formula combines retinol-like organic harungana extract and activated red jania extract, offering the benefits of retinol without irritation and is safe for even sensitive skin. Puffiness and dark circles are reduced with caffeine and horse chestnut. It also provides anti-pollution protection and deeply nourishes with shea butter. It has a skin-tightening, non-oily texture with an instant smoothing effect, and comes in a refillable, eco-friendly aluminium bottle. €79 from Clarins boutique. Aveda Miraculous Oil High Shine Hair Concentrate 8. Aveda Miraculous Oil High Shine Hair Concentrate A plant-powered, sustainable hair oil designed to deliver shine, smoothness, and manageability for all hair types. The silicone-free formula features nourishing tsubaki seed oil, daikon seed oil, and camelina oil ferment. It tames frizz, smooths dry ends, protects against heat, and leaves a lightweight, radiant finish without buildup. It's infused with Aveda's Pure-Fume aroma, blending 25 flower and plant essences like lavender and ylang-ylang, for a luxurious wellness experience. Packaged in a recyclable, vegan, cruelty-free bottle, it's suitable for colour-treated hair. €40, Planet Beauty. Prices correct at time of print.
Daily Mail
16-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Sunscreen sticks are recommended for easy reapplication - but are they any good, and which are the best ones?
Most of us are aware that our skin is exposed to UV rays every single day – even when it's grey and cloudy outside, which is why it's advised to wear sunscreen year-round. Formulas have come a long way and a sun protection factor is now cleverly added to products such as serums, drops and setting sprays. The most important part of sun protection that we're still overlooking, however? Reapplication. Enter: the sunscreen stick. While the concept of a solid sunblock isn't new – skiers and surfers have long favourited it for on-the-go convenience – there is an ever-growing list of new-generation sunscreens sticks that not just offer sun protection, but skincare benefits too, from brands like Shiseido, Supergoop! and Kopari. So, what are the benefits of sunscreen sticks? How do they compare to suncreams and mists? And are there any downsides? We asked Dr Clare Kiely, Consultant Dermatologist and Co-Founder of The Skin Diary, to weigh in. What are the benefits of sunscreen sticks? Sunscreen sticks are a brilliant option for targeted protection. Their solid format makes them ideal for areas that are easily missed, such as around the eyes, nose, ears and lips, or for reapplying on-the-go without any mess. Because they're water-resistant and less likely to run into the eyes with sweat, they're also great for sports or hot climates. Another major benefit is that they're easy to layer over makeup, which makes reapplication much more realistic and achievable throughout the day. The best sunscreen sticks for summer Clarins Invisible Sun Care Stick SPF 50 This transparent sunscreen stick also offers anti-wrinkle and anti-oxidant benefits thanks to the powerful duo of organic cocoa extract and vitamin E derivative. £25 Shop Kopari Pure Protect Mineral Stick SPF 50 This 100% mineral sunscreen stick is packed with vitamin E (to help protect skin against damage from free radicals) and bisabolol (to help calm and soothe skin after UV exposure. £28 Shop How do sunscreen sticks compare to suncreams and mists? Each has its place. Creams tend to offer the most consistent and reliable base layer of protection, especially for dry or sensitive skin. Mists are convenient, but can be unreliable if not applied thoroughly or in windy conditions. Sticks are about precision and portability. Think of sticks as a powerful support act, not necessarily a full-face solution on their own, but incredibly useful for reapplication and hard-to-reach areas. What's the best way to use a sunscreen stick? Apply directly to the skin in multiple passes – one swipe won't cut it! Dr Kiely recommends a back-and-forth motion over each area about four times to ensure adequate coverage. Then, use clean fingers to gently blend if needed, especially around facial contours. They're perfect for reapplication every 2–3 hours, particularly on the nose, cheeks, and lips, which are areas that catch the most UV and are often the first to show signs of photoageing. What ingredients or sun protection factor should we look for? Always look for broad-spectrum protection, meaning coverage against both UVA and UVB. For sticks, a minimum of SPF 30 (but ideally SPF 50) is recommended, especially in high UV environments. If you're acne-prone or sensitive, look for non-comedogenic formulas with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide (physical blockers), or newer generation chemical filters like encapsulated filters that offer strong UVA coverage with good tolerability. Antioxidants are a welcome bonus, as they help neutralise free radical damage alongside UV protection. Are there any downsides to sunscreen sticks? The main limitation is coverage. It's easy to underapply, especially if you're using it as your only SPF. The solid format also means they can sit more heavily on oily skin, and some formulas may feel waxy or tug during application. But when used correctly, especially as part of a multi-format SPF routine, they're an excellent tool, particularly for maintaining protection throughout the day without fuss.
