WHY SPF IS IMPORTANT

August 6, 2023

SPF is a measure of how well a sunscreen can protect your skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. Here are some key points that we will cover in this blog

Why SPF is important for your skin health and appearance
How to choose the right SPF for your skin type and activity level
How to apply and reapply sunscreen correctly and effectively
Some tips and tricks to make sunscreen a part of your daily routine

Why SPF is IMPORTANT

The sun emits two types of UV rays that can damage your skin: UVA and UVB. UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and cause premature aging, wrinkles, sagging, and dark spots. UVB rays affect the surface of the skin and cause sunburn, inflammation, and skin cancer. Both types of rays can also supress your immune system and make you more prone to infections.

SPF can help protect your skin from these harmful effects by blocking or absorbing some of the UV rays before they reach your skin. SPF also reduces the amount of time it takes for your skin to burn when exposed to the sun. For example, if you use an SPF 30 sunscreen, it means that it will take 30 times longer for your skin to burn than if you did not use any sunscreen at all.

By using SPF regularly, you can prevent or reduce the risk of sunburn, skin cancer, and premature aging. You can also maintain a healthy and youthful appearance of your skin by preventing or minimising the signs of sun damage.

How to choose the right SPF

There are many factors that can affect how much SPF you need, such as your skin type, your location, the time of day, the season, and the activity you are doing. Here are some general guidelines to help you choose the right SPF for your needs:

The minimum SPF you should use is 15, which blocks about 93% of UVB rays³. However, most dermatologists recommend using at least an SPF 30, which blocks about 97% of UVB rays⁴.
If you have fair or sensitive skin, or if you have a history of skin cancer or sunburn, you may need a higher SPF, such as 50 or above, which blocks about 98% of UVB rays⁵.
If you are going to be outdoors for a long time, especially during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), or if you are going to be in a sunny or reflective environment (such as the beach, the snow, or the water), you may also need a higher SPF.
You should also look for a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection, which means that it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. You can check the label for words like “broad spectrum”, “UVA/UVB protection”, or “PA rating”. You can also look for a star rating system or a circle with “UVA” inside it, which indicate the level of UVA protection⁶.

You should also consider the texture and formula of the sunscreen that suits your skin type and preference. There are different types of sunscreen available, such as creams, lotions, gels, sprays, sticks, and powders. Some may be more moisturising, while others may be more lightweight or matte. Some may also have added benefits, such as antioxidants, anti-aging ingredients, or tinted coverage.

How to apply and reapply sunscreen

Applying sunscreen correctly and effectively is just as important as choosing the right SPF. Here are some tips on how to apply and reapply sunscreen:

Apply sunscreen at least 15 to 30 minutes before going outside⁷. This allows the sunscreen to bind to your skin and form a protective layer.
Apply enough sunscreen to cover all exposed areas of your skin. As a guide, adults should aim to apply around 6 to 8 teaspoons (or about one ounce) of sunscreen for their entire body⁸. Don’t forget areas like your ears, neck, lips, hands, and feet.
Use a separate sunscreen for your face if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin. You can also use a moisturizer or makeup product that contains SPF for your face, but make sure it has at least an SPF 15 and broad-spectrum protection.
Reapply sunscreen every two hours when outdoors⁹, as well as after swimming, sweating, or toweling off. Sunscreen can wear off over time due to perspiration, water exposure, friction, or rubbing.
Use other forms of sun protection in addition to sunscreen, such as wearing protective clothing (such as hats, sunglasses, long sleeves

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