Spf cream what is it

We list the signs of a good sunscreen and examples of products that will be useful to you. When choosing Sanskrin, consider where you intend to use it - in the urban jungle or on the sea coast.

1. What is SPF factor
2. How to choose a really good cream
3. Cream with SPF for every day
4. The best SPF products for the face

What is SPF factor

Face cream with SPF protection is a cosmetic product that we must use daily, so its choice should be approached with the utmost seriousness. Today, the range of Sanskrins is quite wide and meets a variety of requirements.

Choose a face cream with SPF according to your phototype. © iStock

SPF (English Sun Protection Factor, translated as “sun protection factor”) is an index that determines the level of protection from the sun, namely ultraviolet rays type B (UVB). The number next to the abbreviation tells you how much ultraviolet light will reach your skin when using the product:

with SPF 10, the skin will receive 1/10 of the total radiation, that is, the filter will block about 90% of UVB rays;

SPF 15 will cut off 93% of the rays;

the highest possible protection level of 50+ neutralizes 98-99% of UVB radiation.

The sun protection factor SPF applies only to UVB rays, which cause burns, but not to UVA rays, the culprits of early aging and pathological changes in skin cells.

Recently, separate labeling has appeared to inform consumers about the level of protection against UVA radiation: in accordance with the recommendation of the European Commission, a UVA symbol in a circle is placed on the packaging of sunscreens. This means that the formula provides a minimum level of UVA protection (at least 1/3 of UVB protection), which increases with the SPF value.

The need for SPF protection for the face

Dermatologists recommend using sunscreen products every day, regardless of the time of year or cloudiness. After all, ultraviolet radiation can not only cause burns, but also accelerate skin aging.

It is for this reason that it is necessary to use a product with broad-spectrum filters and SPF that corresponds to the solar activity index. As a rule, in summer you need SPF 30-50.

How to choose a really good cream

A sunscreen will truly keep your skin safe if you choose it based on several criteria, including the type of filter and your own phototype.

Filter types

There are two types of filters that differ from each other in their operating principles.

Physical or mineral (titanium dioxide and zinc oxide) reflect the sun's rays like a mirror.

They are included in creams from sunscreen lines and fluid screens with high SPF, which are applied over moisturizer and create a protective film on the skin. They are rarely used in everyday creams: mineral particles are too large, overload the formula, make the texture heavier and give the face a characteristic whitish tint.

Chemicals (there are more than 20 compounds, including parsol 1789, avobenzone, oxybenzone) do not repel, but absorb and neutralize UV ​​rays.

Unlike physical ones, they are destroyed within two hours of continuous insolation. Therefore, in direct sunlight, reapplying Sanskrin every two hours is strictly necessary.

Face cream with SPF will come in handy both on vacation and on weekdays. © iStock

Determining your phototype

This criterion shows the degree of skin sensitivity to ultraviolet radiation. Sensitivity is determined by the amount of protective pigment - melanin, which is produced in the lower layers of the epidermis in the sun. The classification of phototypes was compiled by Dr. Thomas Fitzpatrick in 1975, dividing humanity into 6 groups based on a combination of external characteristics.

I Celtic type. Signs: milky white or pink skin, which is called porcelain for its even tone. Red hair, light eyes, a scattering of freckles on the face and body. They burn instantly, they don’t tan at all.

II European (Scandinavian, Nordic). Representatives of this phototype resemble the previous one in appearance; they have light eyes, hair and skin. They burn quickly and tan poorly, but when tanned, the skin acquires a golden, rather than red, hue.

III Central European (mixed). Ivory leather. Hair - dark brown, brown. Eyes - brown or light. There are no freckles or they become visible only during the active sun season. They tan well, although they can get burned.

IV Mediterranean, or South European, type. Typical residents of Spain, Italy, Greece. They are easily recognized by their dark olive skin. Eyes and hair are dark. Tan quickly, without burns.

V Asian (Eastern). These people are distinguished by dark skin, dark hair and eyes. They tan well, it is almost impossible for them to get sunburned.

VI African type. Very dark skin, hair and eyes. They don't get burned.

The most vulnerable to ultraviolet radiation are phototypes I-III. Dermatologists advise such people to take a responsible approach to choosing Sanskrin.

What SPF do you need?

The choice of sunscreen depends on the circumstances of your life: location, time of year and day. The lighter the skin, the lower its own protective mechanism, which means the higher the likelihood of a burn.

Regardless of the phototype, it is recommended to renew the photoprotective agent every 2 hours. In the summer in southern countries, the sun is merciless, and people are characterized by imprudence, forgetfulness and just laziness: they gaped a little, carelessly applied the cream - and did not notice how they got burned.

In addition, no product can be 100% safe, so it is important to remember the rules of sun exposure. In places with increased UV activity (sea, mountains, hot countries), choose a cream with SPF 30-50. Below are more specific recommendations.

Creams with SPF protect against burns and premature wrinkles. © iStock

Recommended sun protection for different phototypes

Cream with SPF for every day

If everything is more or less clear with the sun and the beach, then the need for ultraviolet protection in urban environments is questionable. Is it necessary at all, especially in winter? The answer to this question depends on the UV index at a particular time. Look at the weather app on your smartphone and act according to the circumstances.

UV index below 2 - you can do without SPF.

The UV index is below 4, and you do not plan to stay outside for more than 30 minutes - no protection is required.

UV index 4-6 - use cream with SPF 20.

UV index above 6 - solar protection with a factor of 25-30 is required.

Developers and manufacturers of cosmetics do not always include SPF in day cream for the face, preferring not to overload the formula aimed at solving specific cosmetic problems: moisturizing, nourishing, fighting wrinkles.

But every year, various products with innovative textures and additional effects, addressed to different skin types, appear in sunscreen lines.

The higher the UV index, the stronger the photoprotection should be. © iStock

Protection in the city

There are at least three fundamental differences between sunscreens for the city.

Complex formula. “Urban” means, in addition to repelling the attack of ultraviolet radiation, will have to deal with factors of an aggressive environment. This means they contain antioxidants, for example, green tea extract.

Additional functionality. To save time getting ready in the morning, “urban” SPF products are often equipped with additional functions. Some of them can act as a foundation, mattify the skin, and work to reduce age spots.

Low SPF. Urban products allow a relatively small degree of protection, for example, SPF 15 or 20. After all, sometimes your entire stay on the street on weekdays is limited to a run for lunch to the nearest cafe or a short walk from home to the metro and from the metro to the office.

Beach protection

With beach formulas, everything is strict: water resistance (an indispensable condition) plus a filter of at least thirty.

The best SPF products for the face

Once you're concerned about purchasing a suitable Sanskrin, think about where you are most often going to use it. For daily use in the city, this product is no less important. The editors of Skin.ru have compiled a selection of the most successful products, in their opinion.

Moisturizing

Ultra Facial Defense sunscreen with high protection and moisturizing effect, SPF 50, SkinCeuticals

Provides not only powerful protection, but also maintains moisture levels in the skin. Contains shea butter.

Anthelios Ultra face and eye cream, SPF 50+, La Roche-Posay

In addition to neutralizing sun rays, it provides additional protection with antioxidants: baicalin, vitamin E and thermal water with a high selenium content. There is an option with SPF 30. Suitable for sensitive, normal and dry skin.

Anti-aging

Anti-aging care 3-in-1 with antioxidants Capital Idéal Soleil, SPF 50+, Vichy

Prevents signs of photoaging and fights existing ones. It contains fermented black tea extract, which has the ability to even out the complexion and add radiance.

Sunscreen gel against negative environmental influences Ultra Light Daily UV Defense Aqua Gel, SPF 50 PA++++, Anti-Pollution, Kiehl’s

The oil-free texture of the refreshing gel is suitable even for oily skin; it has a moisturizing effect and does not cause a sticky effect. Protects against both the sun and free radicals, preventing signs of photoaging. The formula is enriched with vitamin E.

For combination and oily skin

Sunscreen for face and eye area, Anthelios Shaka fluid, SPF 50+, La Roche-Posay

Universal sunscreen, ideal for summer and skin of any type, has the lightest texture and is resistant to sweat and water. Shake before use.

Mattifying emulsion Dry Touch Capital Ideal Soleil, SPF 30+, Vichy

Combines a high degree of sun protection with a light texture and powdery effect.

For problem skin

Sunscreen gel cream for oily, problematic and acne-prone skin Anthelios, SPF 50+, La Roche-Posay

Combines photostable filters supported by antioxidants with acne-fighting ingredients salicylic acid and niacinamide, plus proprietary mattifying technology. Water resistant.

For beach

Refreshing sunscreen spray-veil for face and body “Solar Water”, SPF 30, Garnier

The lightweight texture spreads evenly across skin using the patented 360° round spray applicator. Immediately cools the skin by 2°C and provides long-lasting hydration thanks to the aloe juice in the formula.

These tools may interest you

More about the ingredients

1. Anastasia May 7, 11:21 What kind of game? And I read this on the “profile” site! SPF does not indicate how much ultraviolet radiation will reach the skin! SPF determines how long you can stay in the sun without harming it! Taking into account skin type.

1. Editorial February 19, 23:21 Hello, Anastasia! Thank you for your comment. SPF is a factor calculated based on the energy required to produce a minimal erythema response with and without the use of sunscreen products on the skin. The minimum erythemal dose (MED) is the smallest dose of ultraviolet radiation (UVR) that causes the primary visible, unambiguous signs of erythema (appearance of redness) with clear boundaries, occurring over most of the area exposed to ultraviolet radiation, after 16 days. 24 hours after irradiation. This definition complies with the regulatory documents according to which SPF coefficients are determined. For your information, the definition of the term SPF is recorded in the following official documents: 1) Recommendations of the European Commission of September 22, 2006 “On the effectiveness of sunscreen products and the declared properties related to them.” The text is available in EU languages: eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32006H0647 2) ISO 24444-2013 “Test methods for sun protection. Determination of sun protection factor (SPF) on living organisms (in vivo)” - this international standard is also adopted in the Russian Federation, and all locally produced products are required to follow the requirements of this methodology. The standard contains both methods for determining SPF and PPD. Best regards, skin.ru team

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All girls treat their skin with special care. What kind of cosmetic products do they not use? Of course, in the summer, the skin of the face becomes more vulnerable, so it requires careful care, and with special products. Creams labeled SPF are especially popular. But what does it mean? How to choose such a cream? And what are the features of its application?

What is SPF?

Sun Protection Factor is the decoding of the mysterious three letters on creams with this inscription. It means “sun protection factor”. This inscription indicates that the cream contains a substance that absorbs ultraviolet rays and protects your skin from their negative effects. The number that follows the inscription tells you how long you can stay in the sun without worrying about skin damage. The degree of protection is weak (5-15 SPF) and strong (60-100 SPF).

There are SPF creams, lotions, sprays and even wipes on sale. Each girl chooses an option that would be most convenient for her personally to use!

SPF cream protects the skin from the following types of radiation:

UVA. This type of rays is considered the most dangerous for human skin. Under the guise of a beautiful tan that every girl dreams of, they have a negative impact and even cause many skin diseases. What could be the consequences? Skin cancer or premature aging.
UVB. These rays are less dangerous, but they can cause burns on the skin. UVB rays affect the production of a special substance called melanin. He is responsible for the color of the tan. When there is too much sun exposure for a certain skin type, these rays cause severe burns.

How does the cream protect the skin? Thanks to special SPF filters. They are the ones who absorb and scatter the rays so that they do not have a harmful effect on the skin. There are two types of such filters:

Chemical. The following substances are essential here: avobenzene and benzophenone. Their role is to absorb the sun's rays before they cause a burn.
Physical. In this case, the leading positions are in the following substances: zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. They form a film on the skin that reflects the rays and prevents them from penetrating the skin.

Such substances and filters give cream, lotion or SPF spray unique and beneficial properties.

How to choose SPF cream?

Sunscreen is selected according to your skin type. Therefore, first you should determine what color you have, and then start purchasing. There are 6 main types:

Type. Light skin, which is more common in blondes or redheads. The eyes are blue. Sometimes freckles appear. Such skin burns quite quickly, 15-20 minutes are enough for it.
Type. Light skin, but it is already found in people with brown or green eyes. It burns within half an hour.
Type. Olive skin. It is light, but does not burn as quickly. This takes up to 40 minutes, so such people can easily get a beautiful and even tan.
Type. Characteristic of people with dark hair and eyes. It is quite easy for owners of this type to tan. Sometimes when exposed to the sun, the skin begins to turn pink. This requires 60-90 minutes.
Type. In appearance, the skin of such people is already tanned. It most often occurs in people who come from the Middle East. To change your skin tone, you need to stay in the sun for up to 2 hours.
Type. This skin itself is black, so it does not burn. Dark color is a natural shade.

Do not forget that prolonged exposure to the sun is harmful for any skin type. Pigment spots, freckles and even skin cancer appear.

Now, knowing your skin type, it will be much easier for you to choose and use sunscreen correctly. It is important to remember this formula: we multiply the time during which you burn by the SPF level and get the duration of action of the cream in your particular case. Let's look at the example of skin types 1 and 4.

Type 1 skin is light and burns within 20 minutes. Therefore, you should carry out the following calculations: 20 minutes multiplied by SPF 15, you get 300 minutes or 5 hours of cream protection. This indicator varies depending on the SPF level.

Type 4 skin is medium tan and takes 60 minutes to burn. Therefore, you need to multiply 60 by SPF 15. You get 900 minutes or 10 hours of protection.

It’s easy to carry out such calculations; the main thing is to correctly determine the skin type and the time of risk.

Tips for using SPF cream

It is important to choose the right cosmetic product and know the nuances of its use. Consider the following factors:

Duration of sun exposure. The longer you are in the sun, the higher the SPF you will need.
Amount of cream. Don’t be greedy, because the health and beauty of your skin depends entirely on the correct application of the cream. For complete protection, it is recommended to cover all skin that is not covered by clothing with one thick layer until completely absorbed.
Where do you plan to stay? If you use SPF at the beach, choose water-resistant products that last even after swimming.
Consider your skin type and texture. For those with thin skin, a lotion or spray is suitable that will not burden the dermis.
For a makeup base, not a cream, but a sunscreen powder with the SPF level you need is suitable.

How to apply SPF cream?

In order for sunscreen to have the necessary effect, you need to know the basic rules for applying it to the skin. Remember that it must be completely absorbed before you go outside in the sun. This means it is recommended to apply it 15 minutes before going out. The average amount is 1 tsp. on the face and 1 tbsp. l. on the body. Every 2 hours you should repeat the procedure for applying the cream, since it is washed off with sweat and moisture and loses its beneficial properties.

The shelf life of SPF cream is no more than one season, although a longer period may be indicated on the packaging.

The whole truth about SPF cream

There are various rumors about products with a degree of protection from sun rays, which confirms the irrefutable saying: “as many people, so many opinions.” However, dermatologists and cosmetic specialists know much better what is true and what is false regarding the use of SPF. But what should you personally know about this term?

SPF does not affect cancer

This is the main and painful topic of many blogs and forums where the role and impact of SPF creams on health and the appearance of cancer cells is discussed. However, statistics and studies by dermatologists say otherwise. It is important to remember that such cosmetics do not contain iron or titanium itself, but molecules that are not able to penetrate deep into the dermis. They remain on the surface of the skin, because their main role is in protecting against UV radiation. Without such substances, it will not be possible to achieve the desired result and properly protect the skin.

The best degree of protection is SPF 30

Of course, there are higher values ​​- up to 100. However, their effect on the skin is not so significant. Anything above 30 SPF is nothing more than a marketing gimmick because it only provides 2% more protection! If you use cream for going to the beach, then SPF 15-30 is suitable for you, and for a regular walk in the summer, use SPF 8-10.

Dermatologists believe that the best option for protecting girls' skin is SPF 30 cream.

SPF products are not just for sun protection

Today, as cosmetology reaches a new level, the line between sunscreen and beauty products has blurred. There are more and more universal creams and lotions that can be used for different purposes. These products contain amino acids, vitamins, oils, hyaluronic acid and antioxidants that help moisturize, nourish and restore the skin. They smooth out wrinkles, even out complexion and prevent premature aging. Such beauty helpers should be in every woman’s makeup bag!

SPF products do not fight freckles or age spots

The appearance of freckles and age spots is influenced not so much by the sun as by stress, skin characteristics, genetics and diseases. Therefore, creams with an SPF indicator do not affect such skin in any way, because their main purpose is protection against UV radiation.

No SPF without chemical ingredients

Connoisseurs of everything natural and healthy look negatively at the composition of many sunscreens. However, when deciding in favor of one product or another, it is worth remembering the strong negative effects of sunlight and the consequences that await the skin without proper protection. That is why the packaging of a cream or lotion should indicate what the action of this product is directed at: UVA or UVB rays. The composition must include the following ingredients: salicylates, cinnamates, silicones. These are chemical components, but the presence of physical ones is also necessary: ​​zinc and titanium oxide, which cover the skin and protect from harmful rays.

Now, knowing the truth about SPF products, you will choose a cream that will suit you personally and protect you from the harmful effects of the sun's rays. Don't forget that SPF is not just creams. There are also foods that protect the skin from burns. These include dark chocolate, tomatoes, salmon, watermelon, potatoes and carrots. Using them will protect you from radiation!

When choosing products with SPF, you must take into account geolocation; not all creams protect against UVA rays and a few more facts about SPF that you need to know. Dermatologist-cosmetologist Victoria Britko (Goncharuk) debunks myths and gives advice.

Fact #1: Physical and chemical filters work differently

There are two types of filters: physical and chemical. The first create a kind of “screen” on the skin, mechanically reflecting solar attack. Most often, manufacturers use titanium dioxide and zinc oxide as physical filters. Chemical filters have a different operating principle. If we omit all the complicated details, they absorb UV radiation, converting it into thermal energy and thereby neutralizing it. Avobenzone (butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane), salicylates, and cinnamates are used as chemical filters. It is ideal when the product contains two types of filters.

Fact #2: There are two types of UV radiation

There are three main types of UV radiation: UVA, UVB and UVC. It is UVA that is harmful to the skin - it increases the risk of cancer, causes burns and pigmentation. UVB rays are not harmful to the skin and are almost completely absorbed by the ozone layer. They pose a danger only to the cornea of ​​the eye. Therefore, high-quality sunglasses provide protection against two types of radiation.

Fact No. 3: protection must be selected taking into account the skin phototype

In dermatology there is such a thing as erythemal time. It refers to the minimum dose of sun exposure, after which visible redness appears on the skin. This is an individual indicator.

Its value depends on the phototype, of which, according to the classification of the American dermatologist Fitzpatrick, there are five: 1 – skin that practically does not tan, often with freckles, characteristic of those with light eyes and hair; 2 – skin prone to burns, typical for people with light or dark brown hair and light eyes; 3 – well-tanned skin, not prone to burns, typical for people with dark hair and dark eyes; 4 – the skin tans well, does not burn, and is not prone to freckles; 5 – very dark skin, never burns – sun protection is genetic.

If you are a blue-eyed blonde, most likely we are talking about the first phototype, which has a high risk of burns. In this case, a cream with the highest SPF level is required.

Fact No. 4: there is a generally accepted formula that allows you to calculate the permissible time spent in the sun

In order to calculate the required SPF, you need to know your erythema time at a given temperature in given weather conditions. This figure must be multiplied by the one indicated on the packaging of the protective product. This gives you the time you can spend in the sun before erythema (redness) or burns appear.

For example, at a temperature of 30 degrees, the erythema time of a girl with fair skin and blue eyes is about 10 minutes. Accordingly, with SPF 50 protection, she can spend 500 minutes in the sun (10x50SPF=500). Products with SPF must be renewed after contact with water.

Fact No. 5: When choosing a security solution, you need to consider geolocation

The sun “does not shine equally for everyone”! Its activity depends on the region. In areas located closer to the equator, the rays fall at right angles - their impact is especially dangerous and detrimental to the skin. There you need to use protection higher than what you are used to using (the erythema time is sharply reduced). The ultraviolet index in your region can be easily determined on the website nesgori.ru or using a special application for a smartphone. In Moscow, for example, it is quite low - about three. In Sydney it is very high - ranging from eight to ten. There, during the daytime it is better not to appear in the sun at all, even with maximum SPF protection.

Fact No. 6: spray products need to be dosed correctly

Sprays are distinguished by fine atomization and lie on the skin in a thin layer. It often happens that during application some areas remain untreated. Protection is not enough. Sprays are strictly prohibited for use by children and those who have problems with the respiratory system.

Fact #7: There's not much difference between SPF30 and SPF15

SPF is not just a temporary indicator. The higher the protection factor value, the more sun rays the product blocks. But the difference between SPF30 and SPF15 is not too big. So SPF15 neutralizes 94% of sunlight, SPF30 – 97%, SPF50 –98%.

Fact #8: SPF does not need to be applied in advance.

There is no need to apply the product 30-60 minutes before going out into the sun, as many experts advise. SPF starts working immediately! It's quite appropriate to do this on the beach. In the first days of exposure to active sun, it is better to use products with maximum protection. Further SPF can be reduced. Never start tanning with oils - they do not provide the necessary protection. They are good for moisturizing the skin after sunbathing. Use shea butter, jojoba, almond, rosehip.

Fact #9: Most daytime skincare products already contain SPF.

This applies not only to skin care products, but also to decorative cosmetics. Most day creams have an SPF factor ranging from 15 to 20. This information is indicated on the packaging. See the composition. Look for ingredients: oxybenzone, sulisobenzone, PABA derivatives, octylmethoxycinnamate, zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, avobenzone.

Fact No. 10: You should use products with SPF even in cloudy weather.

It is a myth that you don’t need protection when it’s cloudy.

Even when the sun is not visible at all and the sky is overcast, about 40% of UV radiation reaches the ground. This is enough for owners of the first skin phototype to get burned.

Even in February, under the “cold” sun, they may develop freckles.

Fact #11: Using SPF does not cause vitamin D deficiency

In our climate, preparations based on vitamin D, which is produced under the influence of UV radiation, should be taken from September to March (and sometimes in the summer months). Some people are afraid to use creams with SPF, believing that it causes a deficiency of cholecalciferol (vitamin D3). There is not a single study proving that this is actually the case.

Fact #12: SPF in foundation lasts about 2 hours

In foundations, manufacturers most often use SPF from 10 to 20. Do not use them in active sun unless necessary. On the beach, foundations are not recommended at all. Even if you work in an office, remove the cream and reapply before going outside.

Fact #13: Those with dark skin can use products with a lower SPF

Sunburn and age spots appear less often on dark skin. This does not mean that it does not need to be protected. It is necessary, but the degree of protection may be lower.

Fact #14: It’s better not to use sunscreen from last season.

Every cosmetic product has expiration dates. But for sun filters it lasts no more than a year. Check the expiration dates of all last year's products. If they've expired, feel free to throw the rest in the trash.

Fact #15: SPF does not guarantee the absence of freckles.

Cosmetologists even have such a concept as “freckle phototype”. On such skin, under the influence of ultraviolet radiation, melanin is actively formed, which is distributed pointwise. No cream can stop this process 100%.

Fact No. 16: caring components in products with physical filters are useless

In addition to SPF protection, creams may contain caring and moisturizing components: hyaluronic acid, vitamins, essential oils. But in products with physical filters, additional ingredients are useless. Filters create a protective “screen” on the skin surface that reflects UV rays and prevents skin care components from penetrating the skin. If you want to moisturize and nourish, apply the serum you use every day under a product with SPF.

Fact No. 17: Some components in protective products should be avoided

Avoid parabens, strong preservatives and fragrances that can cause allergies in protective products. Benzophenone may cause endocrine disruption. Manufacturers of protective products often use retinyl palmitate. Exposure to UV rays can cause pigmentation. Avoid using cosmetics with retinoids during sun exposure.

Fact No. 18: There is no 100% natural product with SPF in nature.

All natural protective products are made based on oils. But their maximum SPF is 4 (SPF is considered working from 10). If a larger index is indicated on the package, there are two options: either the composition contains other filters, or this is a marketing ploy.

Fact #19: UV radiation does not penetrate clothing.

Even light fabric is a mechanical barrier to UV rays. The skin does not tan under clothing - this is reliable protection against burns.

Fact #20: Hair also needs protection from UV rays.

Hair needs protection no less than skin. When exposed to UV rays, they not only quickly lose color. Ultraviolet light dries out hair, making it dull and brittle. During periods of solar activity, it is better to use special sprays and oils.