Everything you need to know about Sunscreen
Sunscreen plays a vital role in protecting skin, but it should be used in conjunction with other preventative measures like determining shade and wearing hats or protective clothing.
The sun emits various types of radiation, including detectable light and ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which we cannot see.
UV radiation is specifically harmful as it can affect the skin in two main ways: it breaks down collagen and elastin, causing premature aging and wrinkles, and it can influence the DNA in skin cells, increasing the risk of skin cancer.
See Also: 10 Surprising Toner Benefits & How To Choose The Best Toner For Your Skin
There are three types of UV radiation UVA, UVB, and UVC.
- UVA rays are primarily responsible for premature aging and wrinkles
- UVB rays are the main cause of sunburns and skin cancers.
- UVC is absorbed by the atmosphere and does not reach the Earth’s surface of the UV radiation that does reach us.
Using sunscreen helps protect against these harmful effects, but for optimal protection, it should be used in conjunction with other sun safety practices.
What You Need to Know About SPF and Sunscreen
SPF, or “sun protection factor,” evaluates how well sunscreen safeguards your skin from UVB rays. For instance, SPF 15 blocks about 93% of UVB rays, SPF 30 blocks 97%, and SPF 50 blocks 98%.
Experts generally recommend using sunscreens with SPF values between 30 and 50 for adequate protection.
Although higher SPFs offer slightly more protection, they don’t supply a guarantee of complete sunblock, so it’s best to stay within this range to ensure effective coverage without overestimating your sun protection.
Sunscreens should be labeled “broad-spectrum” to protect against both UVA and UVB rays.
See Also: Ultimate Skincare Guide For A Healthy Glowing Skin
There are two main types of sunscreen
- Physical (mineral): Physical sunscreens, containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, reflect UV rays,
- Chemical: chemical sunscreens use ingredients like avobenzone and homosalate to absorb UV rays.
To increase protection, combining sunscreen with protective clothing, shade, and prevention of tanning beds could also help. Choose your ideal sunscreen that meets your skin tone, preferences, and daily schedule so that you use it consistently.
The Surprising Advantages of Regular Sunscreen Use
Wearing sunscreen is vital for preventing skin cancer. According to research, everyday use reduces the risk of squamous cell carcinoma by 40% when compared to irregular use.
Aside from cancer protection, sunscreen combats physical indications of aging by maintaining collagen and elastin fibers. Sun exposure depletes these fibers, making the skin appear leathery and drab.
Regular application can help to reduce fine wrinkles, dark patches, and loss of firmness. Given that UV damage begins within five to ten minutes of contact with the sun, daily sunscreen application is essential.
See Also: How To Choose The Best Moisturizer For Every Skin Type
Easy Ways to Make SPF a Part of Your Everyday Routine
To get maximum protection, apply sunscreen as the final step of your skincare routine, after moisturizer and before makeup. Use it every day and remove it at night with a cleanser.
Use about half a teaspoon of sunscreen on your face and neck, and an amount equal to a shot glass (one measure) on your entire body. To ensure full protection, reapply sunscreen every two hours and immediately after swimming or sweating, as well as 30 minutes before you go out into the sun.
Moisturizers and cosmetics with SPF are beneficial if they contain the appropriate SPF and offer broad-spectrum protection.
Moisturizers or foundations may be adequate for brief sun exposure during daily activities, but for extended outdoor exposure, use an SPF of 30 or more. Combining products doesn’t increase the amount of SPF.
Kindly note, that using two SPF 15 products won’t automatically give you SPF 30. Instead using two SPF 15 items will only provide just SPF 15 coverage.
See Also: Achieve Glowing Skin With These Proven Natural Remedies
FAQs
Are SPF-Infused Moisturizers and Makeup Safe?
SPF 15 in many moisturizers and makeup provides sufficient protection for casual sun exposure. However, Professionals highlight the need for a more powerful, water-resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or above for those who work outside or are in the sun for extended periods.
How Effective Are SPF 15, 30, and 50?
The effectiveness of SPF 15, 30, and 50 differs, with higher SPF numbers giving improved protection against UVB rays. However, SPF 30 and 50 provide more considerable resistance and longer-lasting coverage than SPF 15.
RATINGS UV Prevention
- SPF 15 93/100
- SPF 30 97/100
- SPF 50 98/100
Can Sunscreens Trigger Skin Allergies and Fake Burns?
Oxybenzone in sunscreens can cause skin allergies, known as photoallergies, which are distinct from sunburns. Babies under six months old are particularly vulnerable to these sensitivities and should be protected with shade rather than sunscreen.
Sunscreens contain common allergens such as oxybenzone, DL-alpha-tocopherol, and perfumes. As a result, it is critical to choose sunscreens with caution, particularly for those with sensitive skin.
See Also: A Comprehensive Guide To The Ordinary’s Most Effective Serums & Their Differences
How to Choose the Best Sunscreen?
While shade offers the best UV protection, using a sunscreen with SPF 50+ is strongly advised. The perfect sunscreen is one that you will wear regularly, taking into thought your skin type and texture issues such as acne and oiliness. Cancer Council sunscreens are inexpensive and benefit skin cancer examination, while Anthelios SPF 50+ is another high-quality option.
Which Sunscreen Can I Use?
- Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion, Broad Spectrum SPF 55 UVA/UVB Protection.
- Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion.
- Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Water Resistant and Non-Greasy Sunscreen Lotion with Broad Spectrum SPF 45
- Supergoop! Glowscreen SPF 40, Sunrise (Champagne Glow)
- COOLA Organic Face Sunscreen SPF 50 Sunblock Lotion
- Paula’s Choice Extra Care Non-Greasy, Oil-Free Face & Body Sunscreen SPF 50.
- Alba Botanica Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 50.
- Neutrogena Retinol Face Moisturizer & Sunscreen, SPF 30.
- Neutrogena Beach Defense Water-Resistant Sunscreen Lotion with Broad Spectrum SPF 30.
