Sun protection factor

Hello, dear beauties of our site. Today we will talk about SPF protection.
Every representative of the fair sex on one of the tubes of cream has at least once noticed the mysterious 3 letters SPF with some kind of digital designation. Many women understand that this is SPF. But not everyone knows what function it performs and how long it protects the skin. This is exactly what we will deal with today.

Content

What is SPF factor?

The sun's rays have an extremely negative effect on human skin. Many may disagree 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 within the first 15 minutes of exposure to the sun (sometimes this figure can reach up to 5 minutes). Further stay risks 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 SPF factor.

SPF factor( Sun Protection factor) is a sunscreen filter found in cosmetics. It minimizes the negative effects of sunlight on human skin.

The factor content in the cream is calculated as 2 mg per 1 cm² of skin. Therefore, in order for the product to be effective, it must be applied in a thick layer and rubbed in thoroughly.

Duration of SPF protection

Not all SPF factors work the same. 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.

When buying a product with a UV filter, you must know the duration of its action. To do this, you need to determine how long it takes for your skin to turn 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 SPF factor.

For example: 15 minutes*SPF25=375 minutes=6 hours of relatively safe sun exposure

All about the sun's UVA and UVB rays

In order to understand which product is right for you, you need to understand a little about the nature of the sun's rays.

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. Our body is affected only by A and B rays. UVC radiation does not pass through the ozone layer.

Now let's look at the negative consequences each radiation brings.

1. A – these are the safest rays. Thanks to them, we get that desired bronze tan. However, when UVA rays affect the skin, they dry it out greatly, resulting in wrinkles, freckles, and the aging process of the skin. Sometimes this radiation causes sun allergies.
2. IN – poses 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 can cause UVB radiation to cause burns, itchy skin, blistering and the formation of cancer cells.
3. WITH – the most dangerous radiation. It causes cancer.

Before purchasing cosmetic products, pay attention to the labeling. Give preference to products marked UVA/UVB. This means that the selected cream, lotion, spray, etc. will protect your skin from A and B radiation.

Types of UF protection

Different sunscreens have different properties. It is thanks to these qualities that they are divided into the following types.

The cosmetics contain titanium oxide and zinc dioxide, which reflect sun particles. They act as a kind of screen that prevents rays from penetrating the skin.

Cosmetics with this factor have a low level of protection, almost never cause allergic reactions, but are not waterproof.

These are products containing components that block rays by reacting with them.

Creams and other products with this action factor are highly effective because they contain a high degree of SPF. But they have a significant drawback - frequent allergic reactions to the components.

These are components of plant origin that are used to make children's cosmetics.

These factors act only as an addition to factors with physical or chemical effects. They can improve the actions of other components.

SPF factor and cosmetics

Before sunbathing, you purchase some sunscreen. To do this, you go to the store and stand in front of the windows for a long time, not deciding to make the final choice.

Now we will tell you how one remedy differs from another. Thanks to this, you will make your purchase quickly and without problems.

1. Suntan lotion – has a liquid consistency, after application there is a sticky feeling. It is not waterproof and has a low level of protection.
2. Suntan cream – has a thick, pleasant consistency and is well absorbed. Depending on the type of cosmetic product, it may be water-resistant or unstable in water.
3. Tanning spray – easy to apply, has a liquid consistency. But when choosing this product, you will never be sure of the amount of product applied to the skin.
4. Tanning oil — recommended for use on the beach, but not in the solarium.
5. After sun oil – used after sunbathing. Helps give your tan an even, uniform tone.
6. After-sun cosmetics – have a cooling effect, fixing the resulting tan.

Many women believe that SPF factor is only included in sunscreens. And you only need to protect your skin from UV rays on the beach or in the solarium. But this is a mistaken opinion.

Throughout the year, our face and hands are exposed to powerful impacts. If you do not protect the skin in these areas, then signs of aging will appear very quickly.

Taking this factor into account, cosmetics manufacturers produce decorative cosmetics and day creams with an SPF factor.

Look in your makeup bag. Surely your powder, foundation, day cream and even lipstick have a sun protection factor. They are the ones who prolong the youth of your skin.

When buying sunscreen, pay attention to the type SPF-filter. If you go to the sea or to the solarium, then choose a factor blocker (with a chemical effect). It will block and neutralize radiation.

When choosing everyday cosmetics, opt for screen factors (with physical effects). They will reflect the rays and protect your skin.

How to apply a product containing SPF?

Many people know that sunscreen is vital for their skin. But not everyone knows how to use them correctly.

And the rules for using such cosmetics are quite simple.

1. Apply the cream with massage movements in a thick, even layer.
2. Apply cream 20-30 minutes before going out into the sun.
3. In a solarium, you need to apply the cream immediately before the procedure.
4. On the beach, reapply the product every 2 hours.
5. Sunscreens must be washed off (after they have served their purpose).
6. If you apply 2 layers of cream, then the SPF filters do not add up.

How to choose a product that is right for you?

The ideal sunscreen should:

1. Suitable exactly for your age.
2. Match your skin type.
3. Suitable for your photo type.
4. Suitable for place of stay: solarium, beach.

Now let's look at each point in more detail.

1. Sunscreen cosmetics are divided into products separately for children and separately for adults. Baby creams will have a higher degree of protection. If you put your product on your child (to save money), there is a high probability that he will get a burn.
2. Many manufacturers produce creams for different skin types. But there are also universal remedies that will suit everyone. But if you have oily skin and are going to apply facial protection designed for dry skin, you will end up with a number of worsened skin problems.
3. All people are different and their skin reacts to the sun's rays differently. Taking this factor into account, people were divided into 6 phototypes. In our latitudes, the first 4 types are most common.

1. First or Kelsky type – people with fair skin, red hair and freckles. Their skin turns red very quickly. Therefore, the factor with degree of protection 30-50.
2. Second, Nordic or Scandinavian type – people with fair skin, brown eyes, light brown hair. A product with SPF15-35.
3. Third or European type – people with fair skin, brown eyes and brown hair. This is the most common phototype in our region. A person who falls under this characteristic must choose a remedy with protection 8-15.
4. 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 products with different factors. 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.

1. 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 product with a high SPF filter.

When in the city, there is no need for a powerful UV filter, so you can choose cosmetics with an index 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.

1. Before purchasing 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+
2. Choose cosmetics that contain caring ingredients (for example, panthenol, various oils, vitamin E)
3. Give preference to products from trusted brands
4. To sunbathe 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
5. Before use, check products for allergic reactions.

You will find even more answers and advice from a professional cosmetologist in the next video.

About the author of the article:

Cosmetologist, director of 3 cosmetology clinics under her own brand “Lyudmila”. Author of articles for professional online publications and participant in many international symposiums.

How products with maximum sun protection factor work, and how “one hundred” differs from the more familiar “fifty” - read in our article.

1. What is SPF cream
2. What types of creams with SPF are there?
3. Sunscreen with SPF 70, 80, 100
4. Rating of the best creams with SPF 50

What is SPF cream

Creams with SPF are a special category of cosmetic products created to protect against ultraviolet radiation. Our skin is affected by two types of rays:

UVB stimulate the production of melanin, that is, they are responsible for Tan. They also cause solar burns.

UVA penetrate deeper into tissues, destroy cell DNA, provoke photoaging (wrinkles, age spots), photodermatitis, can cause malignant neoplasms.

When choosing Sanskrin, it is important to know what it protects against © Getty Images

Numbers next to the abbreviation SPF (Sun Protection Factor) inform about the degree of protection only from UVB rays, that is, from burns. The level of protection against A-rays has a different indication. Such protection is provided by products with the following markings:

the letter "A" in a circle

broad spectrum inscription

abbreviation PPD (Persistent Pigment Darkening) or PA - in the Asian market.

What types of creams with SPF are there?

Sanskrins are divided into several groups depending on the SPF value.

Low degree of protection - these include all means with SPF below 15. Such products are suitable only for people with very dark skin phototypes V and VI.

Average degree of protection - SPF 15-20. Addressed to naturally dark-skinned people who do not get sunburned. However, a lot depends on the level of solar activity. In the scorching summer sun in the mountains, tropics or on the coast, such protection will not be sufficient.

High degree of protection - SPF 30 and 50.

Very high degree of protection SPF 50+ — this category includes sunscreen products with a factor of 70, 80, 100.

Sunscreen with SPF 70, 80, 100

The higher the SPF value of sunscreen, the better it protects from the sun. Does this mean that you can feel safe if you choose a cream with a three-digit protective factor? The answer is no, you can’t, and here’s why.

None of the existing cosmetics provides complete sun protection.

The consumer, following the simplest logic, thinks that SPF 30 protects the skin twice as much as SPF 15, and SPF 100 is twice as high as SPF 50. In fact, the logic is different.

SPF 15 blocks 93% of UVB rays.

As you can see, the difference between fifty and a hundred is very small, only one percent. Therefore, European recommendations require the maximum SPF 50 to be indicated on the packaging, and everything higher to be marked with a “+” sign.

Dermatologists believe that “weaving” purely psychologically gives the consumer a false sense of complete security and he begins to neglect the rules of “safe tanning”, without which creams with SPF simply will not be able to provide the declared protection,” says Garnier expert Marina Kamanina.

So if you get sunburned even under the cover of SPF 50+ cream, then you did something wrong. Test yourself again by reading this article.

Let us recall two basic rules for using SPF cosmetics.

Apply generously and evenly.

Renew every 2 hours and after swimming.

Rating of the best creams with SPF 50

In this review, we have collected the best, in the opinion of the skin.ru team, products with a maximum protection factor of 50 and 50+.

A godsend for those who struggle with oily shine on their face every summer. The product not only protects the skin from the sun, but also mattifies it thanks to the Airlicium component.

A non-greasy moisturizer that can be applied to the face, including the eyelid area.

Undoubted advantages: lightness, compactness and the ability to apply even over makeup.

Enhanced protection against UVB and UVA rays is combined with an airy texture that is imperceptible on the skin. And no white marks.

Water-repellent sunscreen is created using a special technology that allows it to be applied directly to wet skin. At the same time, the sun protection properties remain high.

A three-in-one product: tones, protects against ultraviolet radiation and, therefore, prevents unwanted hyperpigmentation. Plus it fights existing age spots.

An obvious plus is the lightweight, waterproof formula. Goji berry extract (a powerful antioxidant) enhances protection against UVA radiation, which causes the formation of free radicals.

Mineral protection is enhanced by the work of artemia salina - a plankton extract that increases the skin's ability to defend itself and helps it resist the negative effects of UV.

Enriched with shea butter, which gives the milk a comfortable texture and protects the skin from dehydration. Broad-spectrum filters protect against both types of rays, which means they prevent the appearance of sunburn and, in the future, wrinkles.

Protect your skin from harmful radiation, and it will reward you with youth and health. If you love to be in the sun and at the same time neglect sunscreen, one day it can end very sadly. You will look at yourself in the mirror and be surprised at the changes that have happened to you. Where did these wrinkles, age spots or - even worse - strange-looking moles that were not there before come from? Doctors are convinced: it’s never too late to change your habits and start treating your skin more carefully. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to turn back time, but you can make sure that your skin doesn’t get worse. Our tips will help you choose the right sun creams with a high protection factor.

Buy what you like. The cream should match your lifestyle and preferences. If you don't like the texture or smell of the product, you probably won't use it as often as necessary. Buy what suits you in all respects. Sunscreens with a transparent, non-sticky texture: “Invisible Protection” spray, Nivea Sun moisture and sweat resistant spray, Sun Sport, Lancaster.

Study the composition. Pay attention to the protective components that are included in the product, because the effectiveness of the cream depends on them. Titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, and avobenzone, also known as Parsol 1789, work best. The titanium and zinc in the cream provide protection against both A and B rays, while the chemical protectants primarily block B rays and only some A rays. The exception is avobenzene. and Mexoril, which protect the skin from all types of sun rays. Sunscreens with Mexoryl® filter, providing absolute skin protection from ultraviolet radiation: Capital Soleil, Vichy anti-aging body milk Solar Expertise, L’Oréal Paris.

Choose full protection. The packaging often says: “Full protection” or “Broad spectrum protection”. The formulation may be slightly different, but one thing is important: the product must protect against all types of sunlight. About 95% of solar radiation is ultraviolet rays type A (UVA), which penetrate deep into the skin and provoke the appearance of wrinkles, age spots and malignant tumors. Ultraviolet B (UVB) rays cause sunburn and can also lead to cancer. It is important that your product protects your skin from both UVA and UVB. Sunscreens: Face Cream, Clinique Sun, with SolarSmart™ technology, which helps the skin independently protect itself from harmful UV radiation. Protective cream with luxurious texture Bronze Goddess, Estee Lauder Buriti, L’Occitane, based on buriti tree fruit oil, which protects the skin from aging and dehydration caused by sun exposure.

Choose a high protection factor. The protection factor (SPF) is a sun protection factor that indicates the effectiveness of a sunscreen. Which sun protection factor should you choose? For example, a factor of 15 suggests that with this cream you can stay in the sun 15 times longer than without it. For example, if without cream you burn in the sun in 10 minutes, then with cream you can sunbathe for about 2 hours. However, you need to keep in mind that most people apply much less cream on the beach than doctors advise. That is why dermatologists recommend using sun creams with a high protection factor - no lower than 30.

Don't be fooled by choosing sun protection factor creams. If the package indicates a protection factor of 45 or higher, this does not mean that with such a product you can stay in the sun as much as you want. A cream with SPF 30 blocks up to 96% of the sun's rays, while one with SPF 45 blocks just 1% more. If you have fair and sensitive skin, always choose the maximum protection factor.

1 Do this in advance. Apply the cream at least 15 minutes before leaving the house so that the skin has time to absorb the protective substances. Ideally, this should be done half an hour before going out and before you get dressed.

2 Don't save money. To fully protect the entire body, about 30 g of cream is needed, according to dermatologists. The main mistake most people make is that they do not apply enough product to their skin. Pay special attention to your face, shoulders, and chest. For example, for the face and neck you will need about 1 teaspoon of cream.

3 Try new things. Not only protective creams are now on sale, but also sprays, wipes and foundations that not only give the face an even tone, but also block the penetration of UV rays. The most convenient to use are sprays with a sun protection factor. They can be sprayed from any angle, which means you can even apply sunscreen to your own back without any help. Another option is wipes soaked in sunscreen. Their main advantage is that they allow the product to be applied to the skin very evenly. And loose powder and foundation are great for exposed areas that are most exposed to the sun: face, chest, neck and shoulders. If you need additional protection, you can apply lotion to your skin first, then apply powder. Our choice: Photo’Perfexion fluid, Givenchy, with SPF 20.

4 Keep track of the time. You need to renew your sunscreen every 2 hours. If you have been actively involved in sports or swam for a long time, then you should apply the cream immediately after swimming or playing beach volleyball. Timely application is the basis for proper tanning. The issue of obliging manufacturers to indicate on the packaging the maximum interval between applications of the cream is currently being discussed.

Despite the undoubted benefits that sunscreens bring to the skin, many of us doubt their effectiveness. Dermatology experts weigh in on four of the most common sun protection myths.

Myth 1 Protective lotion will not save you from skin cancer.

Is it true. Many researchers accuse manufacturers of protective products of misleading people by assuring them that the cream is a reliable way to protect themselves from the hot sun. As an argument against sunscreens, statistics are cited that clearly demonstrate: the number of skin cancer cases has been increasing in recent years. However, most dermatologists still agree that the reason for such statistics is the irresponsible behavior of people, and not creams at all. Sunscreen can protect you from skin cancer, but only if you take other precautions. Namely, do not sunbathe from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., wear cotton, covered clothing, and stay in the shade during hours when the sun is most active.

Myth 2 Nanoparticles contained in sunscreens can be dangerous to the body.

Is it true. Nanoparticles of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide contained in sunscreens do not penetrate the skin and are therefore absolutely safe. Despite this, some doctors fear that small particles can still penetrate the bloodstream and cause irreparable harm to internal organs. However, until now, doctors have not provided any evidence of such a danger. And yet, if you do not want to take risks, we advise you to choose proven brands that do not use nanoparticles in their creams.

Myth 3 You shouldn’t use sunscreen because it blocks the body’s intake of beneficial vitamin D.

Is it true. Dermatologists consider this point of view to be an outright misconception. Doctors suggest that such rumors are deliberately spread by solarium manufacturers so that people go there for “artificial” vitamin D. Indeed, protective products slightly reduce the production of vitamin D, but it can be easily replenished through proper nutrition.

Myth 4 Antioxidants in regular creams enhance sun protection.

Is it true. Green tea or grapes may protect against a small amount of UV rays, but they won't provide nearly as much protection as using an SPF product. Antioxidants are an excellent addition to a cream with SPF, but they cannot be regarded separately as a sunscreen.

Tips for using self-tanning

1 Apply your regular moisturizing lotion to your skin. Pay special attention to the driest areas of the skin that absorb the most cream - elbows, knees, ankles. Otherwise, these areas will stand out.

2 Apply a thin layer of self-tanner and renew it after a couple of days. This way the tan will appear gradually and will look natural.

3 Don't skip the neck and area under the chin. These are the areas that are most often forgotten.

4 Apply the lotion in circular motions, carefully distributing the product. This way you can avoid divorces. Brilliant Bronze, Shiseido Intense Bronze Self Tanning Tint, Clarins Flash Bronzer, Lancôme Dior Bronze.

Sensitive skin

First of all, you should pay attention to hypoallergenic products without added fragrances, which can irritate the skin. Choose natural sunscreens like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. They are not absorbed into the skin, but form a thin protective film on its surface, protecting against all types of UV rays. Sunscreen milk for sun-sensitive skin with SPF 50+, Ambre Solaire, Garnier. Acne-Prone Skin If you suffer from blemishes and acne, your skin will likely react to the use of a barrier cream. The best option is a light, oil-free product with chemical protective elements - avobenzene and oxybenzene. 8 rules for safe tanning.

Dry skin

Those with dry skin will benefit from a product with additional moisturizing ingredients, such as glycerin and aloe. You should avoid using protective sprays or gels as they often contain alcohol, which can dry out your skin. Moisturizing milk Hydra +, RoC, with SPF 15.

Oily skin

Avoid creams that contain mineral oils in the ingredient list. Light products based on chemical protective elements that do not leave an oily sheen on the skin are suitable for you. Sunscreen for the face Anthelios XL Fluid Extreme SPF 50+, La Roche-Posay, for combination skin prone to oily skin. If you swim or play sports a lot, you will need a waterproof protective cream. If you apply it to the skin in sufficient quantities, you can stay in the water for 40 minutes to an hour. These products adhere well to damp skin, so they are ideal for active people who move a lot and sweat in the sun.

Now you know which sun protection factor to choose! We wish you a beautiful and safe tan.

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