Summer... Each of us loves to soak up the rays of the gentle sun, lie on the beach, getting a beautiful, even tan. And just walking along the streets in clear weather during the hot season (or even all year round, if it happens somewhere in Australia or the countries of Southeast Asia), we find ourselves at risk. Why? Because in addition to tanning, they can cause significant harm to our skin. The result of their excessive exposure is dryness of the skin, especially the area of the face, arms, shoulders - that is, those places that are not hidden under clothing in hot weather; the appearance of freckles and age spots; and in particularly severe cases, sun exposure can cause one of the most difficult to treat forms of cancer - melanoma. How to protect yourself and your child? Use a product with SPF. What it is, how to choose it correctly depending on your skin type, as well as which brands you should trust, we will tell you in our article. By the way, the sun can be quite active in winter, so protection should be used on clear winter days, applying it to the face under makeup.
All about SPF: what it is, its levels and determination of which indicator you need
So, SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is a special substance whose main purpose is to absorb and neutralize the effects of sunlight. The level of this factor is usually indicated on the packaging of the product and can range from 5 to 100-120 (scale - from weak to strong). Manufacturers produce sunscreen products in the form of lotions, sprays, and wipes. You may also find cream with SPF for lips. Typically, the SPF level of a product is indicated on the packaging. But which factor indicator should you choose? There is a simple rule: you need to determine how long it takes for your skin to turn red under the scorching sun - usually this period is 10-15 minutes (although dark-skinned women can blush after half an hour, while natural Scandinavian-type blondes need 2-5 minutes ). So, you need to multiply the indicated period, let it be a quarter of an hour, by the SPF indicator indicated on your product, for example SPF 20. 15 x 20 = 300 minutes, that is, you can safely spend 5 hours in the sun. It's that simple.
SPF: choose depending on skin phototype
So, if you have just started sunbathing, for example, in the first few days at the resort, dermatologists recommend purchasing products whose SPF is slightly higher than what you need. If you have light skin and hair, you will need SPF 50. But in the very first days, it will still be better to use a product with an index of 70. If you are moderate, choose products with SPF 15-20. For children, especially the youngest, whose skin does not yet produce the protective pigment melanin in sufficient quantities, use creams or lotions with SPF 80-100.
Products with SPF: rules of use
Keep in mind that creams and lotions should be applied 15-20 minutes before going out into the sun to allow them time to be absorbed into the skin. When applying, pay special attention to your face, shoulders, and hands. Also don't forget about your back. Lips also need protection - you can apply a special hygienic lipstick with a protective factor. Although many manufacturers claim that their products are resistant to water, there is still no need to take risks: if after applying a product with SPF you took a swim in the sea or pool, do not be lazy and use the lotion again. It's better to spend a few minutes on this than to suffer after a few days.
Popular brands of products with SPF
We have already found out what it is: products with a protective factor are presented in the form of all kinds of creams, lotions and sprays. The most popular manufacturers, whose products have an excellent price-quality ratio, are Garnier, Nivea, Sunshine and Red Line. These are inexpensive, affordable brands. Keep in mind that your hair also needs protection, so on the beach it is better to hide it under a cap or scarf, or use special sprays. So, now you have basic information about the SPF factor: what it is, how to calculate it correctly and which product to choose. Now your holiday will not be marred by sunburn, and your skin will acquire an even, intense, but at the same time healthy tan.
WHY SKIN NEEDS PROTECTION
Solar radiation, in general, has a negative effect on humans. Thus, modern doctors advise avoiding ultraviolet radiation, limiting contact with the sun only in the morning and for a short period of time.
Ultraviolet radiation has three spectra: A, B and C. A radiation is considered safe. It is this type of radiation that is responsible for a bronze tan. In addition, it destroys connective tissue, thereby starting the aging process of the skin. Radiation B is average in terms of danger level. This type of ultraviolet rays penetrates deep into the skin and stimulates the production of melanin, the very pigment responsible for hair and skin color. It forms these characteristics of a person depending on the place of residence, since its task is to protect the skin from burns. C-radiation is the most dangerous type for humans. However, thanks to the Earth's ozone sphere, it does not penetrate the planet.
SPF - WHAT IS IT?
SPF is the designation for sun protection factor. When you see the inscription SPF on a jar of cream, and then some number (5,15,30,50 and so on), this means that by applying the product to your skin, you can receive a certain amount of ultraviolet radiation without the risk of any negative consequences. For example, if your cream says SPF15, this means that your skin will absorb 15 times more sun rays without harm than without this product.
WHAT DO PRODUCTS WITH SPF PROTECT FROM
Most sunscreen cosmetics protect the skin only from B-radiation, and have no effect on type A radiation. This means that by using sunscreen before going to the beach, you do not risk being left without a tan, but will protect yourself from age spots and the risk of burns.
Interestingly, in the last few years, dermatologists have been strongly recommending the use of creams that provide protection from spectrum A radiation. This is due to the increased incidence of so-called sun allergies. To understand that the cream has type A radiation protection, look for the following abbreviations on the packaging: IPD (Immediate Pigment Darkening) or PPD (Persistent Pigment Darkening). You don’t have to worry about tanning: the ratio of A-radiation to B-radiation protection in creams with SPF is 1:3. That is, the presence of additional protection will not affect the skin's dark complexion.
HOW TO CHOOSE A PRODUCT WITH SPF
1. Determine the required protection factor
The answer to the question: “What protection factor do I need?” depends on your skin phototype and the latitude where you are going to sunbathe. As practice shows, the most optimal factor is 30. It protects the skin well from the harmful effects of the sun, and at the same time allows you to get a tan. Factor 50 and 50+ are necessary only after acid peels, sun allergies or burns, and also if you are predisposed to the appearance of age spots. Creams with a protective factor above 50 absorb up to 99% of type B radiation.
2. Make sure your sunscreen contains caring ingredients
Staying in the sun is stressful for the skin. Therefore, try to choose products that not only protect, but also care. The composition of such creams may contain vitamin E, panthenol, oils, green tea extract and various soothing ingredients.
3. Choose cosmetics from trusted companies
Manufacturers often overstate the SPF level on the label. So, studies were carried out on sunscreens, and it turned out that often, indicating SPF 30 on the packaging, in fact the factor was around 18. Therefore, buy creams only from well-known and trusted manufacturers. Of course, it is best if the funds are made in the European Union, Australia or the USA. In these countries, there is strict control over the level of SPF in cosmetics.
4. Check creams for allergens
If you look at the composition of sunscreens, you can often see titanium dioxide and zinc oxide in them. These are organic components that perfectly reflect ultraviolet radiation. However, these two ingredients are often allergens. Be sure to make sure before purchasing this or that product that you are not allergic to these components.
5. Select the type of protection
Sunscreens are divided into screen and blocking ones. The former reflect solar radiation, creating a mirror-like coating on the skin. The latter absorb ultraviolet radiation. Screen creams do not affect tanning and only protect the skin from exposure to B-radiation. Blockers, as a rule, protect against both types of radiation. Reflective creams are suitable for use in the city, but at sea it is better to take a cream with a blocking effect.
Don't neglect sun protection. A simple rule - applying sunscreen in the warm season will protect your skin from a number of dermatological problems, and also preserve its youth for a long time.
It is impossible for a modern woman to do without foundation, and there is no reason to. Today's foundations and powders have textures that are lightweight for summer, allowing the skin to breathe and protecting it from the damaging effects of UV rays. Therefore, using tone in the summer is not just a whim, but a necessity to preserve the beauty and youth of the skin. When buying a foundation with a UV protective factor, it is important to choose wisely: the product must be suitable for your skin type. For example, for an oily type, choose a composition without oil, but for a dry type you cannot do without this “oily” component, otherwise you can show off small peelings and further dry out the surface.
What is SPF?
Sun Protection Factor (SPF)- This is a factor that absorbs ultraviolet rays before contact with the skin. There are several degrees of protection from the weakest (5-15) to the highest (90-100). The lighter the skin, the higher the degree of protection. This “golden” rule will keep the epidermis young for a long time and prevent its redness. When choosing a sunscreen foundation, stop at at least SPF 30, since the skin of the face is so thin and delicate that a lower degree of protection will not cope with the aggressive summer sun. And for winter, you can choose something less “heavy” - SPF 15-20 will be just right. Note that the higher the UV protection, the higher the density of the foundation and the more likely it is that it will lie in an uneven layer or interfere throughout the day, causing a feeling of clogged pores and even heaviness on the face. But there is a solution for this problem, replace the word “cream” with “fluid”, and choose a tinted product with sun protection with a light texture. It may not fully tint the skin, but it will not create a mask effect and will not cause irritation to the epidermis.
Protection level
The number on the packaging of the protective cream means how long you can enjoy sunlight without getting sunburned. First, notice how long it takes before you blush. Let’s say 5 minutes and choosing a foundation with SPF 10: 5 x 10 = 50 minutes of quiet exposure to the sun. But we choose a cream for toning the face and additional protection from harmful UV rays, which means this arithmetic is not entirely appropriate when choosing a foundation, and yet, Let's talk about the SPF value in numbers:
- 2-4 – the lowest protection, which prevents about 50-75% of solar radiation from entering;
- 5-10 – average, protects up to 85% UV;
- 10-20 – high degree with protection up to 90%;
- 20-30 – intense, absorbing up to 97% of sunlight;
- 50 – highest degree(exactly the same as SPF 90-100, but such numbers cannot be found on the packaging of foundation), guaranteeing protection of up to 99.9% of sunlight.
The optimal SPF value for foundation remains 5-30, depending on age, condition, skin type, vulnerability to sunlight and individual characteristics. For example, for young skin, foundation SPF 15 for winter and SPF 20-25 for summer will be enough; for mature epidermis or after a chemical peeling procedure, you cannot do without a product with a high SPF 30.
Does it protect against sunburn?
The initial purpose of foundation is to create uniform coverage and perfect tone. When SPF is included in its composition, the product instantly acquires an additional benefit - it protects the skin from premature aging, the formation of wrinkles and even melanoma - skin cancer. To the question whether the face tans under the influence of foundation, there are two answers. After applying the foundation to the skin, it stays on more or less evenly for two hours; after three hours, the skin almost completely “eats” it from the surface. Therefore, whether the skin tans or not depends on the renewal of the foundation. If you apply it in the morning and go to work within the first two hours, the epidermis will not tan; if you forget about renewing the cream and go to the beach, then a light tan cannot be avoided.
Kinds
Classic tonal
The texture of a product with a tonal effect can be different: dense, medium, liquid and light (fluid). Its main advantage is the creation of tone and additional protection from UV radiation. The shades of the foundation also differ, which you need to select in the store and test on your own skin.
- For fair skin, choose a cream with a protection factor of at least SPF 20 if you plan to use it in the summer and spend most of your time indoors;
- For tanned skin, choose the appropriate shade directly from a cosmetic store, because the current color is different from the natural one and requires an updated product. This does not mean that the SPF factor will have to be chosen less;
- Giving shine. This foundation contains reflective particles that will highlight the surface of the skin and eliminate minor imperfections. It looks equally good on light or dark skin, especially since “no makeup makeup” is popular today, and natural shine will only suit your face.
Post-peeling protective
This type of foundation with sun protection factor is indicated for girls and women after a chemical peeling procedure. It is used regardless of the time of year and contains a mechanical protection factor, usually iron oxide. The chemical peeling procedure is carried out in the autumn-winter season and requires high-quality protection of the epidermis even from winter UV rays that are not so aggressive at first glance. Post-peeling foundation cannot be found in all brands, more often in professional ones, like the Israeli brand Christina. This product is created for better mandatory protection after peeling. In addition, it perfectly cares for the skin, retains moisture, normalizes lipid balance and prevents premature aging.
Review of companies
"Teint Haute Tenue" by Clarins
The cream is available in 8 shades and has a protection factor of SPF 15. Composition " Teint Haute Tenue"enriched with natural ingredients such as quinoa extract and a unique Anti-Pollution complex to preserve the youth and beauty of the skin. It is highly durable and creates an excellent complexion with a matte finish, while the texture of foundation Clarins unusually light.
BioDerma
Foundation cream " Photoderm Max"has a high protection factor of SPF 50 and is presented in one natural shade (it adapts to individual skin tone). The high degree of protection of the product allows it to be used by women with increased sensitivity of the dermis to UV radiation and skin diseases, for mature and vulnerable to the formation of age spots skin. Its texture is moderately dense, spreads evenly and easily over the surface of the skin and does not leave a white residue. It is well absorbed into the skin and requires renewal every 2 hours for reliable protection.
"Rose de Mer" by Christina
Protective post-peeling foundation is presented in a single natural shade that adapts to the natural skin tone and is suitable for any type and age. The main protective factor in this product is iron oxide or red clay, which blocks 99.9% of ultraviolet radiation from reaching the epidermis.
"Glow" by Lumene
The foundation with a radiant effect is available in 6 shades and has a light texture with an additional moisturizing effect. The weightless creamy coating instantly transforms and refreshes the epidermis, giving it natural radiance and long-lasting pigment. Its protection level is SPF 15.
"Ever Matte" by Clarins
Mattifying foundation " Ever Matte"with SPF 15 is ideal for summer and skin prone to increased sebum production.
Most women, of course, know that SPF (SUN PROTECTIVE FACTOR) is an indicator of the degree of sun protection. But what do the numbers behind this abbreviation mean, and what is the difference between SPF 15 and SPF 50?
Overall, these numbers indicate how much time you can safely spend in the sun before getting sunburned.
If your unprotected skin usually takes 10 minutes to burn, then an SPF 15 sunscreen will protect it, allowing you to stay in the sun 15 times longer. Those. approximately 2.5 hours.
Does this mean that a product with SPF 50 will provide all day protection?
No, because all sunscreens need to be reapplied after 2-3 hours.
Why then buy high SPF sunscreens at all?
They are more reliable. Products with SPF 15 protect against 93% of UVB rays, and they must be applied in a dense, even layer. Products with SPF 30 – from 97%, and with SPF 50 – from 98%. The difference is not too big, but very important. Products with a high degree of protection are recommended for children, people with fair skin, and those who have many moles on their body.
How to apply sunblock correctly?
- If you apply the cream to your entire body, you need at least 30 ml. (about 2 tablespoons). Of course, it is important that the cream is applied evenly.
- You should apply SPF cream 15 minutes before going outside, because... active components take time to start working.
- The product must be reapplied every 2-3 hours, even if it is waterproof.
What else do you need to know?
In summer, it is always better to choose a daily moisturizer with sun protection. It will protect your skin every day just as well as a special cream.
Don't forget that the sun's rays also penetrate through glass, so drivers should not neglect sun protection on clear, hot days.
When protecting your skin from the sun, don't forget about the area around your eyes and lips. These areas are especially sensitive, so it is worth using lip balm with SPF and applying sunscreen to the area of the upper eyelid under the eyebrows.
Sunscreens can be stored at room temperature, but not more than 12 months. After that you will have to buy a new one.
We hope you are well aware that you need to constantly apply sunscreen to your skin - whether you are sunbathing on the beach, drinking cocktails on a sun lounger under an umbrella, or going to work on a cloudy day. The fact is that ultraviolet rays easily pass through the haze of clouds, and it is important to remember this (especially with the onset of the spring-summer season).
Why are SPF products so important? Exposure to the sun without proper protection can seriously affect your health, greatly increasing the risk of premature wrinkles and skin cancer. However, skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer with more than 4,000,000 cases diagnosed every year.
As a reminder, there are two types of ultraviolet rays: UVB, which causes sunburn, and UVA, which penetrates deeper into the skin. Today in cosmetic stores you can find a lot of products with SPF and impressive numbers nearby, but few know how to choose the ideal option and, importantly, how to use it correctly. In this article, we have collected seven myths about sunscreen products that we advise you to stop believing right now.
1. All sunscreens are the same
No, this is not true - sunscreens may differ in the way they protect the skin. Some manufacturers use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to filter UVA and UVB rays, while others accomplish the same task using chemicals (such as avobenzone). Among the new sunscreen ingredients that are not yet widely used are helioplex and meroxyl, which are highly photostabilized.
Which one provides better protection is a matter of scientific debate. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, it's important to make sure your sunscreen has an SPF of 30 or higher, covering both UVA and UVB rays.
2. Moisturizer should have SPF
"Only one of the products you use every morning should have an SPF of 30 or higher," Mona Gohara, a professor of dermatology at Yale University, tells Allure. In other words, SPF is SPF, whether it's in your foundation, daily serum, or moisturizer.
3. SPF 15 protection is enough
Experts note that the minimum SPF that should be used on your face, even if you sit in the office from morning to evening, is SPF 30. At the same time, in order for the sun protection factor to work at full strength, you need to apply about half a teaspoon to your skin product.
4. Lotions, sprays and creams work differently
“In fact, there are no significant differences here. They're just sunscreens, so the choice depends on what format the consumer likes, James Spencer, a Florida dermatologist, tells WebMD. The expert notes that men, according to statistics, more often use alcohol-containing sprays, since they do not like fatty foods. While women are more suitable for lotions and cream products that provide nutrition and hydration. But whatever form you choose, try to apply the product according to all the rules: on dry skin and 15-30 minutes before you go outside.
5. Several products with SPF offer better protection.
“SPF is not an equation. That is, you cannot use SPF 15 foundation and SPF 20 powder to get SPF 35 protection, says Mona Gohara. - Ultimately, your defense will be as strong as the highest factor. That is, SPF 20.” However, if you're only applying tint to small areas of your face, it's wise to double your SPF products to increase overall coverage.
6. Foundation with SPF lasts up to 8 hours
Despite the fact that this is an obvious lie (to put it more beautifully - a marketing ploy), it is difficult to find a girl who will remove the foundation and reapply it every two hours. Unfortunately, any product with SPF works at full strength for only 2 hours, after which the activity of the product decreases, and within an hour it completely disappears. There is a simple and logical way out of this situation - use weightless powder with SPF 30 or higher, and correct your makeup every two hours with its help.
7. Last year's bottle will still work
Is the SPF you used last summer still expired? “Great, that means you won’t have to buy a new one,” you think, and you turn out to be wrong. "If you have sunscreen left over, it means you didn't use it often enough or didn't apply as much as you should," explains Jennifer Stein, MD, New York University. “If you do everything right, then you will definitely have to buy a new bottle.”