Why Sunscreen Confuses Many People
If you stand in front of the sunscreen section for a few minutes you will see what I mean. You will see lots of numbers like SPF 15, SPF 30, SPF 50, SPF 70, SPF 100. There is not much information about what these numbers actually mean. So people usually do one of two things. Buy the cheapest one with the lowest SPF number because they think some protection is better than none. They buy the one with the highest SPF number, like SPF 100 because they think it will give them double the protection. That is not really true.
This is not a small detail that dermatologists like to argue about. Sunscreen is one of the things that can actually help prevent wrinkles, dark spots and other skin problems if you use it correctly and regularly.
What Sun Protection Factor Actually Means
Sun Protection Factor or SPF measures how well a sunscreen blocks UVB rays. These are the rays that cause sunburn. So SPF tells you how longer you can stay in the sun without getting burned when you are wearing sunscreen compared to when you are not wearing any. It depends on how much sunscreen you put on and most people do not put on enough.
Here is what the numbers mean:
* SPF 15 blocks 93 percent of UVB rays
* SPF 30 blocks about 97 percent
* SPF 50 blocks about 98 percent
* SPF 100 blocks about 99 percent
Look at these numbers again. The difference between SPF 30 and SPF 100 is two percent. That is why most dermatologists recommend using SPF 30 or SPF 50 for use instead of paying more for a higher SPF number.
UVA Protection and Why PA Ratings Matter
SPF does not tell you anything about UVA rays. These are the rays that can cause your skin to age over time even if you do not get a sunburn. Some countries use a PA rating to measure UVA protection.
* PA+ means an UVA protection
* PA++ means moderate protection
* PA+++ means protection
* PA++++ means the protection you can get
When you buy sunscreen look for the words "broad spectrum" on the bottle. This means the sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays. If the bottle just has a SPF number but does not say "broad spectrum" it may not protect you against UVA rays.
Chemical vs Mineral Sunscreens
Some people think that chemical sunscreens are bad and mineral sunscreens are good. It is not that simple. It just depends on how each type of sunscreen works and what your skin can handle.
Chemical sunscreens soak into your skin. Turn UV rays into heat, which then goes away. They are usually thin. Do not leave a white cast on your skin.. They can irritate skin that is already sensitive.
Mineral sunscreens sit on top of your skin. Bounce UV rays away. They are usually gentler. Are often recommended for sensitive skin.. They can leave a white cast on your skin although newer formulas are better.
Neither type of sunscreen is the best. It just depends on what your skin can handle and what you like.
How Much Sunscreen You Actually Need
Most people do not use sunscreen. The tests that determine the SPF number use a lot of sunscreen than most people use.
* You should use a quarter sized amount of sunscreen for your face and neck
* You should use sunscreen if you are going to be outside for a long time
* You should reapply sunscreen every two hours. Sooner if you are swimming or sweating
* Do not forget to put sunscreen on your ears, hairline and the back of your neck
Choosing the Right Sunscreen for Your Skin Type
If you use the sunscreen you might get breakouts or irritation.
* If you have acne prone skin you should use a gel or fluid sunscreen with a matte finish
* If you have skin you should use a cream based sunscreen with hyaluronic acid or ceramides
* If you have skin you should use a mineral sunscreen with a short ingredient list and minimal fragrance
* If you have combination skin you should use a lotion that hydrates your skin without making it shiny
Daily Habits That Improve Sunscreen Effectiveness
Most people just put sunscreen on once in the morning and then forget about it. Sunscreen only works if you use it regularly.
* You should put sunscreen on last in your morning routine before makeup
* You should carry a bottle of sunscreen with you to reapply during the day
* You should wear hats and sunglasses to help protect your skin
* You should still use sunscreen on days because UV rays can go through clouds
Final Thoughts
Do not just look for the sunscreen with the highest SPF number. What really matters is using a spectrum sunscreen using enough of it and reapplying it regularly. A applied SPF 30 sunscreen will do more for your skin than a high SPF sunscreen that you only use once.
Disclaimer
This article is for general information and is not a substitute, for professional dermatological or medical advice. You should talk to a dermatologist for advice that is tailored to your skin type, location and sun exposure especially if you have a history of skin conditions or sun sensitivity.