Why is sun protection important for our skin?
The topic of sun protection is relevant not only in summer, but all year round, because the effect of ultraviolet radiation on the skin is cumulative. As we age, we can observe the long-term effects of uncontrolled sun exposure - premature skin aging, loss of tone, elasticity, hyperpigmentation, and most importantly, the risk of developing malignant tumors, including melanoma.
What is an SPF?
SPF (sun protection factor) is a factor of protection against UV radiation. The numbers next to it indicate how much UV radiation a sunscreen can neutralize. All sunlight that hits the skin is 100%. Divide 100% by the SPF index. For example, SPF 30. 100 : 30 = 3,3%. Only these 3.3% of solar radiation will reach your skin, the other 96.7% will be blocked. That is, SPF 30 absorbs almost 97% of the sun's UV rays. SPF 50 - 98% of the sun's UV rays.
Keep in mind that SPF indices do not add up. That is, if you apply a sunscreen fluid with SPF 30 and a foundation with SPF 20, the total protection will be 30, not 50.
What filters are there?
Physical filters, such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, reflect the sun's rays from the skin's surface. Chemical filters of the old and new generation work by absorbing UV rays.
Which products should be preferred?
- Those with a wide spectrum of protection (UVA + UVB or UVA in a circle, the inscription Broad Spectrum).
- They have the PA+ mark next to the SPF index (four pluses - the highest possible protection).
Today, there are many textures on the market (cream, fluid, powder, spray, sticks), there are options with tone, matting. You should choose sunscreen according to your skin type, taking into account your preferences for the form of the product.
How to apply sunscreen correctly?
It is important to apply sunscreen at least 20 minutes before going outside, as it needs to be fully penetrated into the skin to activate its effect. Be sure to apply it if the UV index is more than 3 (you can check the UV index in the weather app of your smartphone).
Studies show that we usually apply four times less sunscreen than the recommended amount. The calculation of 2 mg of the product per 1 cm2 of skin is considered optimal. The 2-finger rule will help here (apply a thin strip of 1 finger to the face, 2 fingers to the ears and neck). Renew every 2 hours if you are in the active sun. New chemical filters allow you to increase the renewal time to 5-7 hours.
Author: Dermatovenerologist Olga Bahriy
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