Every lover of sunbathing knows that without a special sunscreen on a fine summer day, it can be extremely dangerous to be outside. Scorching ultraviolet rays, which give the body a pleasant golden hue, can be detrimental to delicate skin if not protected by professional cosmetics.
Therefore, today in the beauty industry there is a huge range of protective products with an SPF factor: creams, lotions, sprays, and even. Such a variety allows you to choose the best option for each skin type, but first you need to figure out what is hidden behind the magic letters - SPF.
What does SPF mean?
The abbreviation, mysterious at first glance, is deciphered quite expectedly - Sun Protection Factor(translated from English. " sun protection factor"). The SPF value is calculated for each cosmetic product based on the amount of substances it contains that can absorb UV rays. Depending on the mechanism that provides the skin with maximum protection, SPF filters are:
Physical filters are effective against . They create a kind of reflective screen and thereby protect the skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation. Chemical components, on the contrary, adsorb.
Since each of these spectra is harmful to the skin in its own way, professional sunscreens harmoniously combine both of these filters for maximum skin care on a hot day. Depending on the SPF, they are able to filter a certain amount of ultraviolet radiation:
- from 2 to 4 - the base level of SPF from 50-60% of the rays;
- from 4 to 10 - the average filter level is from 75-85% UV;
- 10 to 30 - high SPF from 90-95% UV;
- from 30 to 50+ - ultra-intense level of protection from 95-99% of rays.
If you choose the right degree of protection, you can not be afraid of sunburn, overdrying of the skin and signs of photoaging: flabbiness, peeling and many small wrinkles.
French premium cosmetics Soleil Noir
How to choose the best sunscreen?
When choosing a tanning cream or lotion with an SPF factor, you must first take into account the natural skin phototype:
The skin of the face and décolleté is more sensitive, therefore, when choosing a cream for such a delicate area, you should add another 3-5 units to the recommended SPF. In addition, you should not expect that one remedy is suitable for all areas: firstly, the face is more exposed to radiation, and secondly, the delicate and sensitive skin in this area dries up much faster. Therefore, professional sunscreens for the face are essential in a beach makeup bag - the SPF factor in them is complemented by a rich cocktail of moisturizing and nourishing ingredients, natural extracts and vitamin-mineral complexes.
The leading position among the cosmetics of this line is occupied by French brand Soleil Noir. The creams released under this label contain a unique amount of vitamins and aloe vera gel that no other cosmetic company has been able to recreate.
How long can you stay under the sun?
Even the best sunscreen can't protect you 100% from UV burns. Therefore, cosmetologists have developed a special technique that allows you to calculate the optimal tanning time for each skin phototype. To do this, you need to conduct a small experiment:
- Strip your skin of make-up and skin care products and head out into the sun.
- Carefully monitor the behavior of the epidermis: as soon as reddish hues begin to appear, immediately go into the shade.
- Multiply the number of minutes spent in direct sunlight by the SPF of your sunscreen. This is how much time it takes to sunbathe to get attractive bronze shades and at the same time avoid redness and overdrying.
TOP 3 Common Misconceptions About Sunscreens
Despite the obvious benefits of sunscreen cosmetics, many ignorant women prefer to use it to a minimum or not at all. This behavior is explained very simply - they believe in common myths that it is time to debunk a long time ago:
1. The stereotype that cosmetics with a high content of SPF filters leads to a deficiency of vitamin D, which is produced in the body only in the sun, has no scientific justification. No cream can reflect 100% of ultraviolet rays, so the remaining spectrum is quite enough for the harmonious synthesis of calciferol.
2. The misconception that SPF funds are needed only on a sunny day is not only unfounded, but also extremely dangerous. Even in cloudy weather, about 40% of UV radiation reaches the ground, so getting a sunburn "without the sun" is very real.
3. The myth that any cream clogs pores and leads to acne in hot weather could be considered real 50 years ago. Today's professional sunscreens have a light texture and soft composition, so not only do not provoke inflammation, but also prevent it thanks to cleansing and moisturizing ingredients.
You should not rely "on chance" and expect that the skin will endure neglect and insufficient protection from the sun. Choosing professional sunscreen cosmetics with the right SPF level, you can not only avoid painful burns and photoaging, but also give your skin a pleasant bronze tint, and it is absolutely safe.
The main marker that you need to pay attention to when choosing a product that protects against ultraviolet radiation is the SPF (Sun Protection Factor). Focusing on the value of this indicator, it is possible to determine the effectiveness and scope of filters that protect the human body from the negative effects of UVB rays responsible for synthesis in the surface layers of the skin, the appearance of sunburn or sunburn.
The SPF level can vary from 2 to 50. The value of this indicator, equal to 2, implies the weakest degree of protection (cream with SPF 2 delays about 50% of harmful ultraviolet radiation). The most popular are products with an SPF index of 10-20, since they are ideal for normal skin. The ultimate level of protection is provided by sunscreens labeled SPF 50 and SPF 50+: they tend to block up to 98-99% of harmful sun rays. It is easy to guess that the SPF 70 or SPF 100 indices on the packages of creams designed to protect the skin from the negative effects of sunlight are a banal marketing ploy.
Among other things, the value of the SPF indicator allows you to calculate the time of safe exposure to the sun. So, if under normal conditions a person gets a sunburn in 15 minutes, then when using a protective cream with an SPF index of 10, he will be able to spend 150 minutes (15x10) in direct sunlight. After the specified time, the drug layer will have to be updated.
When choosing a sunscreen in terms of SPF, the so-called skin phototype, that is, an indicator that characterizes its sensitivity to ultraviolet radiation, must be taken into account. Modern doctors and cosmetologists use the Fitzpatrick classification in determining the phototype, in which the scientist managed to identify six main types of skin.
Representatives of the first (Celtic) phototype are the owners of green or light blue eyes, very sensitive light skin, freckles, red or blond hair. Men and women in this group are contraindicated even for a short stay in the sun. For protection, they are recommended to use the most effective sunscreens (in the early days - creams with an SPF 50 index, and later - products with an SPF 30 marker).
Representatives of the second phototype (Aryan or Nordic) are fair-haired or red-haired owners of brown or blue eyes, freckles and fair skin. People in this group are advised to gradually “accustom” their skin to sunlight, treating them first with creams with an SPF 30 marker, and then with drugs with an SPF 15 index.
Men and women with the third (European) skin phototype have blond or brown hair, dark eyes, and relatively light skin. Persons belonging to this group sunbathe well, only the heat of southern latitudes is considered dangerous for them. Cosmetologists recommend that representatives of this phototype use products with an SPF 15 protection index in the first days of exposure to the sun, and then products with an SPF 8-10 marker.
Representatives of the fourth (South European or Mediterranean) phototype are the owners of dark brown eyes, black hair and swarthy skin, on which there are no freckles. Despite the fact that men and women with a similar phototype do not have to face the problem of sunburn, cosmetologists and doctors recommend that they protect their skin from photoaging with creams with SPF 6-8 protection markers.
Representatives of the fifth (Middle Eastern or Indonesian) and sixth (African American) phototype are the owners of swarthy or very dark skin, which never burns under the influence of sunlight. Persons belonging to this subgroup practically do not need to use sunscreens and can only use them as a remedy for photoaging of the skin.
When choosing the right sunscreen for the SPF index, it is necessary to take into account not only the phototype, but also the location of the person whose skin is exposed to ultraviolet radiation. The closer to the equator a man or woman is, the higher the solar activity and, therefore, the higher the risk of sunburn. If in doubt about the choice of products intended for protection against UVB radiation, it is recommended to seek the advice of
Today, everyone already knows how important sunscreen is for the body. Without proper protection, we are subject to the damaging effects of the sun - burns, rashes, irritations, and later also wrinkles, freckles and even melanoma. However, many people do not use sunscreen to the extent necessary (that is, every day). Part of the reason for this is the overcrowded market for sunscreen products.
What is SPF and how is UVA different from UVB?
SPF protects your skin from UVB healing that causes sunburn. But it does not protect against UVA radiation, which causes deeper damage to the skin and accelerates the aging process. UVA radiation is the cause of wrinkles, brown spots, rough skin, hyperpigmentation, and more.
"Broad Spectrum" is a characteristic of products that protect against UVA and UVB radiation. In the past, sunscreens only blocked UVB, but now we know that UVA is also very damaging to the skin. Always choose a product labeled “broad spectrum” to protect your skin from both types of radiation.
How to figure out how long the effect of SPF lasts, and what numbers do I need?
By itself, the SPF value already indicates the duration of action. For example, with an SPF 30 product, you can stay in the sun 30 times longer than without protection. For example, if without a cream you would “burn out” in 10 minutes, then SPF 30 protection increases this period of time by 30 times - that is, you can be in the sun for 300 minutes.
Does the SPF value indicate the effectiveness of the product? (e.g. SPF 100)
Surprisingly, a higher SPF doesn't mean you'll get better protection. In fact, the difference in UV protection between SPF 30, 50 and 100 is minimal.
The degree of protection of SPF 30, 50, 70 and 100 products increases gradually. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB radiation, and all products with higher values have only 1 or 2% more protection. No product provides 100% UV protection.
Reapplication
It is very important not to forget to apply the cream in the morning. But the sun sets only in the evening, and one application of the cream for the whole day is not enough. If you are in the sun, reapply sunscreen every 2 hours. Use the rule: 30 ml (ping-pong ball) is the optimal amount of sunscreen for one application.
How to choose the best tool
Look for a cream with broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection and an SPF of 15 to 30, preferably without oxybenzone. If you have a family history of skin cancer or if you have very fair and sensitive skin, choose a product with SPF 30 or higher.
Choose a product that contains at least one of the following: ecamsule, avobenzone, benzophenone (aka oxybenzone), titanium dioxide, sulisobenzone, or zinc dioxide. Any of these ingredients will provide protection.
The sun's rays have a very negative effect on human skin. Many may not agree with this. Indeed, thanks to the sun, our body gets a bronze tan and the necessary vitamin D.
But the sun's rays are not always useful. Scientists have proven that our body benefits during the first 15 minutes of exposure to the sun (sometimes this figure can reach up to 5 minutes). Further stay threatens at least burns. This is especially true for people with fair skin.
But this does not mean that you need to constantly hide from the sun. It is enough just to use cosmetics and creams that contain the SPF factor.
SPF factor(Sun Protection factor ) is a sunscreen found in cosmetics. It minimizes the negative effects of sunlight on human skin..
Duration of SPF protection
Not all SPFs work in the same way. Some have more powerful protection, others are less effective. Distinguishing one factor from another is quite simple. You need to look at the numbers next to the letters SPF.
They can range from 2 to 50. The lower the number, the lower the level of protection.
| SPFfactor | Skin protection, % | Protection level |
| 8 | 83,3 | basic |
| 10 | 90 | basic |
| 15 | 93,3 | average |
| 20 | 95 | average |
| 25 | 96 | average |
| 30 | 96,7 | high |
| 45 | 97 | high |
| 50 | 98 | high |
| 50+ | 98 | high |
When buying a product with a UV filter, you should know the duration of its action. To do this, you need to determine how long your skin turns red. This can be done empirically by observing your skin.
On average it is 15 minutes. Now the resulting value must be multiplied by the degree of the SPF factor.
For example: 15 minutes*SPF25=375 minutes=6 hours relative to safe sun exposure
All about the sun's UVA and UVB rays
In order to understand which remedy is right for you, you need to understand a little about the nature of sunlight.
The radiation that comes from the sun comes in 3 spectra. These are A (UVA), B (UVB) and C (UVC) rays. Each of them is dangerous in its own way. Only A and B rays affect our body. UVC radiation does not pass through the ozone layer.
Now consider what negative consequences each radiation has.
- A- These are the safest rays. Thanks to them, we get such a desired bronze tan. However, when UVA rays affect the skin, they greatly dry it out, as a result of which wrinkles, freckles appear, and the aging process of the skin starts. Sometimes this radiation causes solar allergies.
- IN- carries an average level of threat to the human body. These rays trigger the production of melanin, which protects the skin from burns. Excessive sun exposure to UVB radiation can cause burns, itchy skin, blistering, and cancerous cells.
- WITH- the most dangerous radiation. It causes cancer.
Before buying cosmetics, pay attention to the labeling. Give preference to products with a designationUVA / UVB . This means that the selected cream, lotion, spray, etc. will protect your skin from A and B radiation.
Types of UV protection
Different sunscreens have different properties. It is thanks to these qualities that they are divided into the following types.
SPF factors with physical impact
The composition of cosmetics includes titanium oxide and zinc dioxide, which reflect the particles of the sun. They act as a kind of screen that prevents the rays from penetrating the skin.
Cosmetics with this factor have a low level of protection, almost never cause allergic reactions, but are not waterproof.
SPF factors with a chemical effect
These are products containing components that block rays by reacting with them.
Creams and other products with a factor of this action are highly effective, because they contain a high degree of SPF. But they have a significant drawback - frequent allergic reactions to components.
Natural Exposure SPFs
These are components of plant origin that are used for the manufacture of children's cosmetics.
These factors act only as an addition to factors with physical or chemical effects. They are able to improve the performance of other components.
SPF factor and cosmetics
Before sunbathing, you purchase some kind of sunscreen. To do this, go to the store and stand in front of the windows for a long time, not daring to make the final choice.
Now we will tell you how one tool differs from another. Thanks to this, you can quickly and easily make a purchase.
- Suntan lotion- has a liquid consistency, after application there is a feeling of stickiness. It is not waterproof and has a low level of protection.
- Suntan cream- has a thick pleasant texture, is well absorbed. Depending on the type of cosmetic product, it can be waterproof or unstable in water.
- Spray tan- easy to apply, has a liquid consistency. But choosing this product, you will never be sure of the amount of product applied to the skin.
- - recommended for use on the beach, but not in the solarium.
- After sun oil- used after sunbathing. Helps to give a tan an even, uniform tone.
- - have a cooling effect, fix the resulting tan.
Many women believe that the SPF factor is only part of sunscreens. And you need to protect your skin from UV rays only on the beach or in the solarium. But this is an erroneous opinion.
Throughout the year, our face and hands are exposed to powerful effects. If you do not protect the skin in these areas, then signs of aging will appear very soon.
Taking into account this factor, cosmetics manufacturers produce decorative cosmetics and day creams with an SPF factor.
Take a look at your makeup bag. Surely your powder, foundation, day cream and even lipstick has a sun protection factor. They make your skin look younger.
When buying sunscreen, pay attention to the typeSPF-filter. If you go to the sea or to the solarium, then choose a blocking factor (with a chemical effect). It will block and neutralize the radiation.
When choosing everyday cosmetics, opt for on-screen factors (with a physical impact). They will reflect the rays and protect your skin.
How to apply a product containing an SPF factor?
Many people know that sunscreen is essential for their skin. But not everyone knows how to use them correctly.
And the rules for using such cosmetics are quite simple.
- Apply the cream with massage movements in a thick even layer.
- Apply cream 20-30 minutes before sun exposure.
- In the solarium, you need to apply the cream immediately before the procedure.
- On the beach, reapply every 2 hours.
- Sunscreens must be washed off (after they have served their purpose).
- If you apply 2 layers of cream, then the SPF filters do not add up.
How to choose the tool that is right for you?
The ideal sunscreen should:
- Suitable for your age.
- Correspond .
- Suit .
- Correspond to the place of residence:,.
And now we will analyze each point in more detail.
- Sunscreen cosmetics are divided into products separately for children and separately for adults. Baby creams will have a higher degree of protection. If you smear your child with your product (in order to save money), then there is a high probability that he will get a burn.
- Many manufacturers produce creams for different skin types. But there are universal remedies that will suit everyone. But if you are the owner of oily skin, and you are going to apply a face protection designed for dry skin, you will end up with a number of aggravated skin problems as a result.
- Everyone is different and their skin reacts to the sun's rays in different ways. Given this factor, people were divided into 6 phototypes. In our latitudes, the first 4 types are most common.
- First or Kehl type - people with fair skin, red hair and freckles. Their skin turns red very quickly. Therefore, the factor with degree of protection 30-50.
- Second, Nordic or Scandinavian type - people with fair skin, brown eyes, light blond hair. For them, a remedy with SPF 15-35 .
- Third or European type - people with fair skin, brown eyes and blond hair. This is the most common phototype in our region. A person who falls under this characteristic must choose a means with protection 8-15.
- Fourth or mediterranean type - people who have dark skin, brown eyes and dark skin. They rarely burn, so their products should have SPF-factor with an indicator of 8.
Throughout the summer, you need to use funds with a different factor. At the beginning of the season, give preference to cosmetics with more powerful protection. When the skin gets a stable tan, you can use a weaker factor.
- You need to choose a sunscreen depending on the place where you will sunbathe. If you go to the coast of the sea, ocean or other body of water, then you need to select a protective agent with a high SPF filter.
Being in the city, a powerful UV filter is unnecessary, so cosmetics can be chosen with an indicator of up to 15-20.
Conclusion
No product with a filter can give a 100% guarantee that you will not get burned or new wrinkles will not appear on your face. However, the risk can be reduced by using the following tips.
- Before buying a sunscreen, determine the protection factor that is right for you (in most cases, the optimal SPF is 30). People with a large number of moles on the body are recommended to use a cream with SPF 50+;
- Choose cosmetics that contain caring ingredients (for example, panthenol, various oils, vitamin E);
- Give preference to trusted brands;
- For sunbathing on different parts of the body, use a cosmetic product of the same brand, otherwise, there is a high probability of getting an uneven tan;
- Check products for allergic reactions before use.
You will find even more answers and tips from a professional beautician in the next video.