In the sunny world we live in, protecting our skin is super important for our health. Sunscreen is like our skin’s superhero. The choice of sunscreen, defined by its Sun Protection Factor (SPF), might sound tricky, but this article is here to help you understand SPF better.

Determining the right SPF for your skin is not only crucial for preventing sunburn but also for reducing the risk of long-term skin damage. Let’s explore and find the perfect sun protection that boosts your skin’s beauty.

SPF – Sun Protection Factor

The SPF stands for sun protection factor and provides a numerical indication (from 6 to 50+) relating to the product’s ability to shield or block the sun’s rays.

The SPF rating is calculated by comparing the time needed to produce a sunburn on skin protected with and without a filter.

However, it is a common mistake to assume that the length of time a sunscreen is effective can be calculated by simply multiplying the SPF by the length of time it takes to suffer skin damage without sunscreen.

A series of factors influence the amount of solar radiation that reaches a person, including the duration of exposure, the time of day, the geographical position, and the weather conditions.

Solar Radiation Effects On The Skin

Solar radiation is classified based on its characteristic wavelength. In addition to visible light (perceived by the human eye ), infrared (IR) and ultraviolet (UV) rays are distinguished.

The latter manages to reach the dermis, affecting the tissues and the metabolic system. Ultraviolet is made up of 3 categories of radiation: UVA, UVB, and UVC.

UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin, promoting the release of melanin from melanocytes and tanning. UVA represents a subtle threat to our skin, it is present even on days with overcast and cloudy skies, and unlike sunburn caused by UVB.

It does not create particular immediate discomfort, Nonetheless, their negative impact can manifest itself even after years. The effect of UVA is reduced by the use of sunglasses and is hindered by protective clothing and sunscreens.

UVB rays are potentially more harmful and carcinogenic than UVA, but they produce a stimulating action on the biosynthesis of melanin and activate the metabolism of vitamin D.

UVC rays are the most dangerous radiation and, fortunately, are shielded by the ozone layer in the Earth’s atmosphere (they generally do not reach the ground).

Choose the Right Sun Protection Factor

There are all types of sunscreens on the market: in the form of cream, ointment, dry or non-dry oil with summer scents, and spray.

All of these promise optimal tans, quickly, without risks to the skin. However, it is good to know that the defensive quality against some of the sun’s greatest dangers is given by several characteristics of the sun filter.

To understand the effectiveness against UVB rays, look at the package’s SPF (sun protection factor) number. The SPF number expresses how long you can stay in the sun without burning.

There are four levels of protection:

1.Low Protection = 6 – 10 SPF

2. Average Protection = 15 – 20 – 25 SPF

3. High Protection = 30 – 50 SPF

4. Very High Protection = 50 + SPF

Fair skin is more sensitive and reacts more to UVB rays, so people with this skin type should use a very high SPF, such as SPF 50+, whenever they expose themselves to the sun.

On the other hand, darker skin is naturally better protected and allows you to use a protection factor of SPF 30 in moderate sunshine conditions.

Dermatologists recommend using a sun protection factor of no less than 15 and, generally, a protection factor of 30 is considered the most suitable index for people who carry out outdoor activities for long periods.

SPF 50 or more offers equivalent protection strength to SPF 30 but lasts longer. SPF 15 blocks approximately 94% of UVB rays, SPF 30 blocks 97%, and SPF 50 blocks 98%.

Sunburning Timing

The self-protection time of the skin depends on the skin type, with a light complexion it can be around 10 minutes, with an average skin type 15, and in the case of a darker skin, it can reach up to 20 minutes.

This number is multiplied by the sun protection factor that is indicated on the package: if you have a medium skin type, an SPF factor of 20 is valid for five hours of sun (20×15= 300 minutes – i.e. 5 hours).

Repeated application of sunscreen does not increase the sun protection factor, but is still important, as protection is reduced by environmental factors, heat, sweat, or water.

Amount Of SPF

To achieve full sun protection from your product, apply one ounce about a full shot glass all over your body. As a general rule, it is recommended to use about 1/3 teaspoon to protect your face.

Most people apply less than half that amount, which results in reduced protection.
In a family of four, four ounces of sunscreen per person should be used during an outdoor day with reapplication.

Choose According To Phototype

Phototype 1: For exceptionally pale skin and red or blond hair, use a high factor (50+ or the entire screen).

Phototype 2: With light skin and brown or blond hair, use high/very high protection (50+ to 30).

Phototype 3: If you have dark blond hair and/or sensitive skin, you might choose medium protection with an SPF of 25 to 15.

Phototype 4: with brown hair and moderately sensitive skin also use SPF between 25 and 15.

Phototype 5: Up to even a low SPF, between 10 and 6, indicated with dark hair and an olive complexion.

Phototype 6: very dark hair and dark skin also use SPF 10 and 6.

Sun Protection Ingredients

You can protect your skin from UV radiation by using sun protection products that include active ingredients. Using sunscreen works differently depending on the type:

Physical (mineral) sunscreen ingredients (including the minerals titanium dioxide and zinc oxide) block and diffuse the rays (like a shield) before they penetrate the skin.

Physical filters work like a screen, which reflects the sun’s rays. They are suitable for sensitive skin, small children, or allergic skin because they are not absorbed by the skin.

The chemical sunscreen ingredients (including avobenzone and octisalate) absorb UV rays before they penetrate your skin. There are different chemical agents.

So if you have had an allergic reaction due to sunscreen, try using another one with a different chemical agent. The packaging should indicate the filters used.

Sun Protection Factor And Skin Type

The dermatologist suggests personalized photoprotection. He chooses the best sunscreen formula based on the patient’s characteristics.

For example, a patient with acne or oily skin prefers to use protection in the form of oil-free, compact gels. On the contrary, a person with dry skin tolerates creams better.

Sprays are useful for large areas or areas with lots of skin such as the back. The sticks are perfect for protecting scars or very photosensitive localized areas.

An excellent sun cream does not necessarily cost a lot, thanks to large-scale distribution and the competition between the various brands.

Must Look In An SPF

Broad spectrum:

Protects the skin from UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays cause sun allergies, premature skin aging, and the appearance of spots, UVB rays cause burns and skin cancer.

Sunscreens must specify whether they protect against UVB and UVA rays. As with UVB rays, there are different levels of protection from UVA rays, known as PPD (Persistent Pigment Darkening).

SPF 15:

Ideal for everyday, occasional exposure, such as walking the dog or driving to work.

SPF 30 or higher:

Required for extended outdoor activities, including distance running, hiking, swimming, and outdoor sports. If you work outside, you must wear SPF 30.

Water-resistant:

Ideal for swimming or heavy activity. No sunscreen is waterproof eventually, they all wash off. Sunscreens labeled water-resistant are tested to be effective for up to 40 minutes of swimming, while very water-resistant sunscreens remain effective for up to 80 minutes in water.

Live A Life Sheltered From The Sun

Keep in mind that, while crucial, sunscreen alone is not enough. For comprehensive sun protection, look for shade wherever you can and use UV-blocking sunglasses, wide-brimmed hats, sun-protective clothes, and sunblocking eyewear.

Wrap Up

With so many choices, how do you choose a sun protection factor that’s right for you? The best sunscreen is the one you are most likely to use, as long as it provides safe, effective protection and is broad-spectrum with an SPF15 or higher.

Finally, it is good to pay attention to the ingredients of the product which must be free of substances that pose a potential skin risk, such as some preservatives and allergens present for example in perfumes.

Learn about your alternatives so that you may choose the one that best meets your needs. Your usage of sunscreen will increase with your level of satisfaction and your skin must say thank you.

FAQs

When should I apply sunscreen?

Ideally, sunscreen should be applied 30 minutes before going outside so it can bond to your skin. After swimming or sweating excessively, reapply every two hours.

Even when it’s overcast, up to 80% of the sun’s UV energy reaches Earth. Going without sunscreen on a cloudy day might harm your skin.

Where should I apply sunscreen?

Experts recommend applying sunscreen all over your body before getting dressed for the day. This way your skin will be protected if your clothes shift or you remove layers.

Use sunscreen on every exposed part of your body, including those hard-to-reach spots, such as your ears, back of neck, scalp, tops of feet, and behind knees.

Why should you use sun protection?

Sunscreen reduces overall UV exposure and reduces the risk of skin cancer and sun damage.

Skin cancer risk factors: Your skin type and family history will determine how much protection you need.

Photosensitivity: No matter your skin type, some medications, and disorders make your skin very sensitive to the sun, increasing your protection needs.

Skin Conditions: You can choose sunscreens according to your skin type, from dry to oily to acne-prone to sensitive.