We’ve been told to wear sunscreen every day, but the number of products available can be daunting. Where do we begin? What’s the difference between SPF 30+ and 50+? What is UVA and UVB? Today, we uncover everything we need to know about sunscreen.
How does sunscreen protect your skin?
There are two main types of sunscreen: chemical sunscreen and mineral sunscreen filters (also known as physical sunscreen). Chemical sunscreen absorbs UV rays and convert them into heat before releasing them from the body. While mineral sunscreen blocks UV rays by reflecting them to protect your skin.
Chemical sunscreen tend to have a sheer and lightweight formulation, that does not leave a white cast. It contains active ingredients such as oxybenzone and avobenzone. As they are made for absorption, they don’t leave your skin greasy or sticky.
Mineral sunscreen is often recommended for people with sensitive skin and acne-prone skin, as well as for children. To block and reflect UV rays, mineral sunscreen often contains zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as they are highly effective in creating a barrier on the skin.
What are UVA and UVB?
UVA (Ultraviolet A) rays have a longer wavelength, allowing 95% of them to penetrate your skin. These rays are omnipresent, shining down on us all day, year-round, even when the sun is hidden by clouds. Due to their ability to reach deeper layers of the skin, UVA rays contribute to damage throughout all skin layers, significantly accelerating the ageing process.
An important fact about UVA rays is their ability to pass through glass. Meaning that even if you spend most of your day indoors, you are still exposed to UVA radiation. Hence, wearing sunscreen daily is crucial to protect your skin.
On the other hand, UVB (Ultraviolet B) rays have a shorter wavelength and are primarily responsible for sunburn, skin discolouration, and an increased risk of skin cancer. UVB rays are most intense from April to October, as there are more daylight hours. However, they also affect us throughout the year.
What is SPF?
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, and its rating is related to protection from UVB rays. For example, SPF 15+ will block UVB rays about 93%, SPF 30+ is 96.7%, and 50+ means 98%.
If you are looking for sunscreen with UVA and UVB protection, search for “broad spectrum” labels. This means the sunscreen is certified for both UVA and UVB protection. UVA protection can also be written as PA (Protection of UVA).
Can SPF be a substitute for moisturiser?
The simple answer is no. While a moisturiser’s main purpose is to promote skin hydration, sunscreen protects from UV rays. It will not be enough to hydrate your skin. The best solution is to apply both the moisturiser and sunscreen, especially if you have a dry skin. On the other hand, if you have oily skin, you may skip the moisturiser. But always make sure that your sunscreen contains hydrating ingredients similar to a moisturiser, such as hyaluronic acid, Squalane, lactic acid, aloe vera and vitamin E.
To effectively shield your skin from harmful UV radiation, opt for a sunscreen with an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of at least 30+. It's crucial to select one that is labeled as "broad-spectrum" or "PA+" to ensure protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
If you have sensitive skin, you might want to avoid chemical sunscreens, as they can sometimes cause irritation. In addition, if you suffer from Melasma, you should stay away from chemical sunscreens as the heat produced can trigger darker pigmentation. Instead, consider using physical (or mineral) sunscreens that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which tend to be gentler on the skin.
It's essential to apply sunscreen every day, regardless of whether you're spending time indoors or if the weather is cloudy.