How to choose the right sunscreen? We’ll advise you!
The sun's rays are beautiful, but they can also be dangerous. Your skin is exposed to UV rays every day, no matter where you are. The right protection is key to maintaining beautiful skin and preventing premature ageing and skin cancer. However, not all sun protection factor (SPF) products are the same, and not all SPFs provide equal protection.
The SPF indicates how well a product protects the skin from UVB rays, which penetrate the skin. The lowest factor is 6 to 10 (blocks 90% of UVB rays), the medium factor is 15 to 25 (blocks 93 to 95% of UVB rays), the high factor is 30 to 50, and the highest possible factor is 50+ (blocks up to 98% of UVB rays).
This value shows how much longer you can stay in the sun with sunscreen compared to going without it before your skin burns. For example, if you usually burn after 10 minutes in the sun and you apply SPF 20, you can stay in the sun for 200 minutes before reapplying (10 minutes times 20 equals 200). Whenever possible, choose a waterproof cream so it won't wash off the first time you go swimming.
The key takeaway is that the difference in protection between SPF 20 and SPF 50 is not very large, but the frequency of reapplication is crucial. With SPF 20, you need to reapply much more frequently than with SPF 50.
Not all SPF products protect against all types of sun exposure.
Many people think that using an SPF product is enough to protect them from all the sun’s rays. Unfortunately, this is not the case. The sun protection factor (SPF) indicates how long it takes for your skin to turn red due to UVB rays, which cause sunburn. However, it does not account for UVA rays, which contribute to premature skin aging and can lead to skin cancer. To protect against both types of rays, look for products labeled "broad-spectrum", which shield your skin from both UVB and UVA radiation.
Chemical or mineral protection? It depends on your preference.
Chemical filters absorb into the skin and are less visible, while physical (mineral) filters sit on the skin's surface and are better for water activities. Choose the product that suits you best. Chemical sunscreens are often preferred for the skin because they are less visible and don’t leave a white cast. However, there are now many high-mineral sunscreens that also don’t leave a film.
A base tan doesn’t mean healthy skin.
A tan is your skin’s response to UV damage. You don't need to aim for a base tan at all costs, as this doesn’t indicate healthier skin.
Sun protection is important even outside of summer.
UV radiation doesn’t stop being harmful when summer ends. Even on cloudy days, your skin can suffer damage. Wear SPF every day.
Use enough sunscreen.
Most people don’t apply enough sun protection. It’s recommended to apply a generous layer all over your body and reapply every two hours, or according to the SPF factor.
Do you know the three-finger rule?
It’s advised to apply enough sunscreen to your face, neck, and décolletage so that it measures three finger-lengths. Does that seem like a lot? It’s just the right amount to ensure your skin is adequately protected.
