Why is SPF so important?
What is SPF?
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, commonly known SPF’s are labelled SPF 15, 30 or 50. The number addresses how well the product protects you against sun burn, indicating how long you are able to stay out in the sun or how many times you may need to re-apply the product on the skin throughout the day. There are two kinds of SPF. There is UVA and UVB. UVA is radiation from sunlight that passes through the skin and can even pass-through glass. This strong radiation is the result of sun-tanned skin, and melanin production which is built up as a defense mechanism against the harsh rays and leaves us with uneven pigmented skin or sun spots. UVA can cause skin becoming fragile, saggy and wrinkled. UVB is not as strong as UVA but can still cause damage to the surface layers of the skin. UV damage can lead to skin cancer. Which is the most common cancer in the world.
When should you wear SPF?
Most people assume SPF should only be used on holiday, or when you are by the sea as it has been commercially advertised like this. Also, those skin types that are unlikely to burn in the sun also feel they are immune to the effects of sun damage, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Sun protection should be used all year round in the sun or snow. UV rays reflect off all surfaces not dependent on the weather so whether you are in the water, or on a sandy beach, or playing in the snow the sun will reflect of all these surfaces causing significant harm to the skin. It is also important to remember that in the winter the harsh effects of cold weather that cause the skin to become very dry, combined with the UV rays early in the morning can impact greatly with the sensitivity of the skin, therefore it is not only in the summer that we should be careful.
Lastly if UV rays have not yet affected your skin, you will most defiantly notice the effects later on in life, as melanin production and the effects of ageing start to speed up as a result of sun damage.
What are the different types of SPF?
Physical sunscreens are also known as mineral sunscreens, these sunscreens usually leave a white residue or have a tint to them, they sit on the surface of the skin working as a strong barrier against the sun rays as the sun rays bounce of the skin. Physical sunscreens contain Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Dioxide these ingredients form a sheer creamy formula and work as a natural broad spectrum protecting against UVA and UVB rays. As it is a natural based sunscreen it is the best for those with sensitive skin, therefore it will not cause havoc with the skin. The NOON MultiVit Sun Protector is an excellent physical sunscreen and is available at KLYNIK.
Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays and these are dispersed into heat which is then released from the skin, it is water resistant so it is good to use when you are in contact with water or if you are sweating. Chemical sunscreens are found in a lot in foundation / make up products. This is great for ease of use and gives you reassurance of protection however it is not always enough to protect the skin throughout the whole day, especially as you are not going to re-apply makeup several times either, although it adds some convenience to your morning skin care routine.
When choosing a sunscreen, it is also good to look out for those that are paraben-free, fragrance and oil free. All these factors contribute in the health of your skin so you are not allowing harsh chemicals into your bloodstream. Another great addition to your SPF is if it covers a broad spectrum including blue light or Infared radiation (IR), if you work a lot in front of a computer screen or you’re on your phone often this will help protect you against oxidative stress.
It is important to not get carried away with the perception that the higher the sunscreen the better, some sunscreens will have a lower factor as this means less preservatives are needed keeping a good balance of the ingredients combined within the product, believe it or not there is in fact only 1% difference between factor 30 and factor 50.
What is the best SPF to use?
NOON MultiVit Sun Protector Covers a broad spectrum against UVA and UVB Rays, it also protects against Infared rays and includes Vitamins B, C and E to fight away free radicals in the skin, helping to keep the skin cells strong and healthy without causing irritation.
Another example of a good SPF is Juliette Armand SPF 50, again this sunscreen covers a broad spectrum, of UVA and UVB protection as well as Infared radiation, the product is light and creamy and easily absorbed into the skin. They both come in a handy size which can easily be put in your bag or jacket pocket to get all day protection.