Protection from the sun

Why does the skin need protection from the sun?

Prolonged exposure to the sun often has negative consequences for human skin and the body as a whole. Under the influence of ultraviolet rays, collagen in cells breaks down, leading to loss of elasticity, the appearance of wrinkles, and pigmented spots. Excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation can provoke not only premature aging but also the development of melanoma. Moreover, after sun exposure, the skin becomes red and peels, causing discomfort. If sunburn occurs, it is worth seeking help from a dermatologist.

Broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB radiation

Ultraviolet rays are invisible electromagnetic radiation to the eyes, which is divided into three types: UVA, UVB, and UVC. UVC rays pose no threat to humans as they are absorbed by the ozone layer of the atmosphere. However, an excess of UVA and UVB spectrum rays can be very dangerous.

UVA rays are long-wave rays, about 90% of which freely penetrate through layers of air, glass, and clothing. They are considered the most aggressive because they can cause not only allergies or sunburn but also burn the cornea and retina of the eye. The effects of UVA rays are not dependent on the season.

UVB rays are medium-wave UV rays that are most actively felt in the summer, especially during peak sun hours from 10 am to 4 pm. Unlike UVA, UVB spectrum rays do not have such long waves and can be absorbed by the ozone layer. They cannot penetrate through glass, so their effect indoors is reduced.

When choosing SPF protection, it's better to prefer products with broad-spectrum action. Such creams protect the skin while simultaneously blocking UVA and UVB rays. Thanks to a special formula, sunscreen neutralizes harmful radiation and protects the skin in any season. Broad-spectrum sunscreens are labeled as "Broad Spectrum" or "UVA + UVB." The packaging may also contain the note "PA+" next to the SPF index. Four "plus" signs indicate the maximum level of sun protection.

What is SPF protection and its levels?

When choosing a cream or other protective product, the sun protection factor (SPF) must be taken into account. The UV index is an indicator of the level of ultraviolet radiation, which typically ranges from 2 to 50. The SPF number determines how much UV radiation the product can neutralize. Assuming that all sunlight hitting the skin equals 100%, to calculate the effectiveness of protection, 100% must be divided by the ultraviolet index. For example, if the SPF is 30, then 100 ÷ 30 = 3.3%. The resulting figure represents the percentage of UV radiation that will reach the skin. The lower the figure, the lower the level of sun protection.

The following levels of SPF products are distinguished:

• 2-4 - blocks 50–75% of UV rays;
• 4-10 - retains 85% of UV;
• 10-20 - protects at 95%;
• 20-30 - high protection effectiveness at 97%;
• 50 - maximum protective level up to 99.5%.

How to choose the format of sunscreen?

Depending on the composition, all sunscreens are divided into two types:

• with physical filters - contain zinc or titanium dioxide. They protect the skin from ultraviolet rays by reflecting sunlight from its surface. However, these sunscreens have a thicker consistency and may leave white traces. Suitable for people with sensitive skin;
• with chemical filters - containing oxybenzone, avobenzone, and octinoxate. They are transparent, easily absorbed, and penetrate deep into the skin. However, such sunscreen can cause irritation, so it is not recommended for use on sensitive skin.

SPF protection for the face is available in the form of foundation cream, spray, lotion, milk, and gel. If you prefer a denser texture, you should choose cream or lotion, and if you prefer a lighter texture, go for spray, milk, fluid, or emulsion.

For oily or acne-prone skin, doctors recommend products with chemical filters (lotion or gel that doesn't leave a shine). They start working after full penetration, so they should be applied approximately 20 minutes before going outside. Sensitive and dry skin best responds to SPF cream with physical filters. These products do not cause irritation and work immediately after application.

Hard-to-reach areas of the body are better treated with sunscreen spray, and lip balm should be applied to the lips.

Selecting sunscreen for the body based on skin type and individual characteristics is easy. It is enough to know your skin type and its usual reaction to sun exposure. The optimal sunscreen in our latitudes is SPF 30-50 with broad-spectrum protection.

How to ensure sun protection for children? Specialists recommend choosing sunscreen based on the following criteria:

• SPF 30 or higher;
• broad-spectrum protection against UVA/UVB rays;
• mineral filters, which have a gentler impact on children's skin;
• hypoallergenic sunscreen;
• water resistance or long-lasting protection;
• absence of harmful ingredients (oxybenzone, parabens) and presence of natural ingredients (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide).

Children under 6 months of age are better off not being exposed to direct sunlight, as their skin is extremely sensitive to UV radiation. To prevent overheating of babies in the sun, it is necessary to use properly selected sunscreens, limit time spent outdoors in the heat, and stay in the shade. Day cream with SPF protection is recommended to be applied to the baby's skin every 2 hours or after bathing.

Can one sunscreen be used for both face and body?

Practically any sunscreen for the face can be applied to the body. However, experts do not recommend doing the opposite, as facial skin is too sensitive and prone to irritation. Additionally, many facial sunscreens have a hypoallergenic formula and are fragrance-free. Usually, information about the intended use of a particular sunscreen is indicated on the packaging. If there is a label "Face/Body," the sunscreen can be used for both face and body.

How to correctly apply and reapply sunscreen?

Sunscreen should be applied to clean skin approximately 15-20 minutes before going outside. During this time, the product absorbs well, ensuring its effectiveness. For proper use, facial sunscreen is applied in the correct sequence with other products – typically as the last step. The cream should be evenly distributed over the skin, using approximately 2 mg per square centimeter. The protective factors of all cosmetic products do not add up, so the SPF level will correspond to the maximum value. In winter or in cloudy weather, it is also important to take care of the skin and apply sunscreen before going outside.

Sunscreen should be reapplied every 1.5-2 hours, depending on the time spent in the sun. After contact with water, it is recommended to reapply a layer of sunscreen. Additionally, it is important to remove sunscreen - even if it seems that it has not remained on the skin. To remove the product, you can use a gel or tonic, and then apply a moisturizing cream.

Sunscreen for hair

Sunlight has a strong impact on the appearance and structure of hair. Under the influence of UV rays, strands become dry and brittle, and the natural pigment breaks down. Specialized sunscreens contain ingredients that form a film on the hair, reflecting or absorbing ultraviolet radiation. Additionally, sunscreens help preserve the color and shine of the hair, preventing it from fading and dehydration. The best protection for hair from the sun is through specialized sprays, balms, or masks. Dermatologists recommend using a combination of products to achieve maximum effectiveness.

About clothing, umbrellas, and dark sunglasses

Proper clothing and headwear can help protect against ultraviolet rays. It is worth choosing items in rich dark colors - blue, brown, red. The fabric should be dense to allow fewer UV rays to pass through. Loose-fitting clothing makes the heat feel less intense.

When going outside on a hot day, it's worth bringing an umbrella. It will protect from sunlight and create shade. To protect yourself from the sun while relaxing by the sea, a beach umbrella, which absorbs about 70-80% of UV rays, will help. It's also important to invest in quality sunglasses with dark lenses that have a high level of protection against UVA and UVB rays.

Doctors recommend following certain rules when staying in the sun, especially in hot countries. It's best to stay indoors during the hottest time of the day, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Before going outside, it's necessary to check the UV index in the weather forecast. When using sunscreen, all exposed areas of the body should be covered, including lips, areas around the eyes, and the neck.

At the «LeoDerm»medical center, you will always be helped to choose the right sunscreen for children and adults, taking into account the type and shade of skin. Dermatologists will provide recommendations for using sunscreen, taking into account the individual characteristics of your body. To make an appointment, simply fill out a simple online form or call the phone numbers on the "LeoDerm" website. We look forward to seeing you!