- What is SPF factor
- Cream with SPF for every day
- Overview of funds
What is SPF factor
Face cream with SPF protection – cosmetic product, which we must use on a daily basis, so approach its choice with all seriousness. Today, the range of sunscreens is quite wide and meets a variety of requirements.
SPF (English Sun Protection Factor, in translation - “sun protection factor”) is an index that determines the level of protection from the sun, namely ultraviolet rays type B (UVB). And the number next to the abbreviation tells how much UV will hit the skin when using the product:
at 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 tallest of possible levels protection 50+ neutralizes 98-99% of UVB radiation.
Choose a face cream with SPF according to your phototype.
Sun protection factor SPF only applies to UVB rays that cause burns, not UVA - the culprits early aging and pathological changes in skin cells.
Recently, a separate label has been introduced to inform consumers about the degree of protection against UVA radiation: in accordance with the recommendation of the European Commission, the UVA symbol in a circle is applied to the packaging of sunscreens. This means that the formula provides at least a minimum level of UVA protection (minimum 1/3 of UVB protection), which increases with the SPF value.
How to choose a really good cream
A sunscreen will keep your skin safe when you select it based on several criteria, including filter type and your own phototype.
Filter types
There are two types of filters that differ from each other by the principle of operation.
- 1
Physical, or mineral (titanium dioxide and zinc oxide) reflect the sun's rays on the principle of a mirror.
They are part of creams from sun protection lines and fluid screens with high SPF, which are applied over a moisturizer and create a protective film on the skin. In everyday SPF creams, they are used infrequently: the mineral particles are too large, overload the formula, make the texture heavier and give the face a characteristic whitish tint.
- 2
Chemical (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, reapplying every two hours in direct sunlight is strictly necessary.
Face cream with SPF is useful both on vacation and on working days.
Determine your phototype
This criterion indicates the degree of sensitivity of the skin to ultraviolet radiation. Sensitivity is determined by the amount of protective pigment - melanin, which is produced in the sun in the lower layers of the epidermis. The classification was made by Dr. Thomas Fitzpatrick in 1975, dividing humanity into 6 groups according to the totality of external signs.
- 1
I Celtic type. Signs: milky white or pink skin, which is called porcelain for an even tone. Red hair, light eyes, a scattering of freckles on the face and body. Burn instantly, do not sunbathe at all.
- 2
II European (Scandinavian, Nordic). Representatives of this phototype resemble the previous one in appearance: light skin and eyes, blond hair. They quickly burn, sunbathe badly, but when tanned, the skin acquires not a red, but a golden hue.
- 3
III Central European (mixed). skin color Ivory. Hair - dark blond, chestnut. Eyes - brown or light. There are no freckles or they become visible only in the season of active sun. They sunbathe well, although they can burn.
- 4
IV Mediterranean type, or South European. Typical inhabitants of Spain, Italy, Greece. They are easily recognizable by their dark olive skin. Eyes and hair are dark. They tan quickly, without burns.
- 5
V Asian (Eastern). These people are distinguished by swarthy skin, dark hair and eyes. They sunbathe perfectly, getting burned for them is almost impossible.
- 6
VI African type. Highly dark skin, hair and eyes. They don't burn.
The most vulnerable to ultraviolet light are I-III phototypes. Dermatologists advise such people to take a responsible approach to the choice of sunscreen.
What SPF do you need
The choice of sunscreen depends on the circumstances of your life: location, time of year and day.
How lighter skin, the lower its own defense mechanism, and therefore the higher the likelihood of a burn. The first three phototypes - white-skinned, and therefore practically defenseless - require the highest possible SPF 50+. Representatives of phototypes from the fourth to the sixth - SFP 20 and 30.
Regardless of skin type, it is recommended to reapply sunscreen every 2 hours. In the summer in the southern countries, the sun is merciless, and people are characterized by indiscretion, forgetfulness and just laziness: a little gape, carelessly smeared - and did not notice how burned. In addition, no sunscreen is 100% safe, so it's important to be mindful of the rules of sun exposure.
In places of increased UV activity (sea, mountains, hot countries), choose a cream with SPF 30-50. Below are more specific recommendations.
In addition to sunscreens, the cream contains antioxidants.
Cream with SPF for every day
If everything is more or less clear with the sun and the beach, then the need for UV 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 that particular time. Look into 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 - you can not defend yourself.
UV index 4-6 - use a cream with SPF 20.
UV-index above 6 - solar protection with a factor of 25-30 is required.
Cosmetics developers and manufacturers do not always include SPF in daily cream for the face, preferring not to overload the formula aimed at solving specific cosmetic problems: moisturizing, nourishing, fighting wrinkles. But in the solar lines every year there are a variety of products with innovative textures and additional effects, addressed to different types skin.
The higher the UV index, the stronger the photoprotection should be.
Overview of funds
Once you're shopping for the right sunscreen, think about where you're going to use it the most. If you thought that buying a protective cream is only for the holidays, you are mistaken. For daily use in the city, this tool is no less important.
Protection in the city
Sunscreens for the city will have at least three fundamental differences.
Toning care 3 in 1 against age spots Ideal Soleil SPF 50+
Evens out complexion, reduces the size of age spots, gives radiance. Non-greasy.
Refreshing milk "Protection and hydration" SPF 15, LOréal Paris
Contains moisturizing aloe vera juice and natural green tea extract, rich in antioxidants and tannins.
Mattifying cream against imperfections Ideal Soleil SPF 30, Vichy
Prevents acne and corrects the imperfections of oily, problematic skin. Contains acids.
Ultralight facial fluid Anthelios XL SPF 50+, La Roche-Posay
All-in-one weightless protection with natural antioxidants for hypersensitive skin.
Beach protection
Everything is strict with beach formulas: water resistance (an indispensable condition) plus a filter of at least “thirty”.
Sunscreens for the face, suitable for going to the beach.
Sunscreen with a high degree of protection and moisturizing Ultra Facial Defense SPF 50, SkinCeuticals
- 2
Extra Protection Face Cream SPF 50+, L "Oréal Paris
Provides multi-protection of cells, effective for the prevention of wrinkles and pigmentation.
- 4
Multicorrective anti-aging cream SPF 30, Kiehl's
Improves appearance skin and corrects the signs of aging: increases elasticity, gives radiance
- 5
Mattifying Gel Cream Anthelios XL SPF 50+, La Roche-Posay
Addressed to the fat and problematic skin. Contains airy microparticles that absorb sebum.
Provides not only powerful protection, but also maintains the level of moisture in the skin. Contains shea butter.
Cream for face and body "Expert Protection" SPF 50, Garnier
Waterproof, hypoallergenic, absorbs quickly, protects against UVB and UVA rays.
Cream with built-in special filters protects the skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays. The need to use such a tool arises before going on vacation and other situations that a person needs to be in the open sun for a long time. To protect the skin, not get burns and age spots, you must choose sunscreen right. To do this, pay attention to important aspects below.
Composition, features, types of sunscreen
Modern manufacturing companies have already flooded the market with newfangled cosmetics for body care. There are several types of sun protection creams. The first includes physical (that is, natural) filters, the second includes chemical ones. Which one is better is hard to say.
The main difference between the varieties lies in the very interaction with ultraviolet radiation. A natural filter reflects rays, a chemical one absorbs them. The product of physical origin is called "Sunscreen", chemical - "Sunblock".
Chemicals absorb the most dangerous class A and B ultraviolet rays, but not every manufacturer can provide a guarantee. Therefore, you need to buy funds from leading manufacturers.
Cream with physical filter
The physical filter is also called mineral, natural, natural. The cream protects the skin thanks to the inclusion of zinc oxide, titanium dioxide and iron oxide. The listed mineral compounds do not penetrate deep into the dermis, they act directly on the surface of the skin after application. Minerals act as reflective particles, glaring in the sun.
Zinc oxide is an inorganic type compound that is beneficial to the skin and prevents the effects of free radicals. Titanium dioxide has the ability to reflect UV rays.
The difference between a physical and a chemical filter lies in the absolute safety of the former. Creams with natural ingredients do not cause allergies, do not color the skin, do not contribute to the development of dermatitis. The particle size of a natural filter is measured in nano units.
The main negative characteristic of natural filters is the appearance of a whitish coating after using such cosmetics.
Cream with chemical filter
The chemicals that make up the basis of cosmetics protect the human body from ultraviolet radiation by creating a thin film on the skin. The cream penetrates into the subcutaneous layer, after which it is transformed into a photoisomer. As a result, a reaction occurs that releases inconspicuous long waves protecting the epidermis.
A tool based on a chemical filter does not act immediately, you need to wait about 30-40 minutes. That is why such cosmetics are applied in advance before entering the scorching sun.
The filter owes its properties to the composition. It includes mexoryl, cinnamate, oxybenzone, benzophenone, parsol, octoprilene, avobenzone, camphor and others. Research by scientists on this list of substances is ambiguous. Some prove the harmful transformation of these compounds into free radicals, while others assure absolute safety. You decide.
There is reliable evidence that benzophenone, which is part of the composition, leads to a deterioration in reproductive performance in men and women. The product is absorbed into the skin and carried by the bloodstream throughout the body, negatively affecting the human reproductive system. Avobenzone has also been shown to be dangerous.
Important!
Regardless of which cream you prefer, you should know that the composition of the product includes elements that are extremely valuable for the skin. Among them are zinc, calcium, olive oil, almond oil, wheat germ pomace, coke extract. Sometimes vitamin complexes are included, for example, retinol (vitamin A) and tocopherol (vitamin E). All of these components lead to even tan no stains or burns. The secret of a quality cream lies in its careful handling with skin.
Selection of cream taking into account the phototype
Type #1. This category includes fair-haired people with light skin and eyes (preferably blue). A person with such a phototype is a clear blond, red-haired or fair-haired. skin in this case tans extremely quickly, so it is necessary to choose products with maximum UV protection - a factor of 50 or more.
Type #2. The eyes are gray or brown, the hairline is light (light brown, blond). There is a risk of getting burned under the scorching sun, but it is reduced by 30% than type No. 1. In the heat of the day, you need to buy a cream with a factor of 30-45, in the usual summer days Suitable SPF-20.
Type #3. In the vastness of our homeland and nearby regions, there are more people of this type than anyone else. The Caucasoid race is a medium or light-skinned people with medium and dark blond, chestnut strands. Eyes brown, green, grey. If you are this type, buy a cream with an SPF of 15-20 units.
Type number 4. This category includes categories of citizens with dark hair and moderately dark skin. The risk of burning is minimal, so you need to buy a cream with a low index. The main thing is that it does not miss ultraviolet light. A tool with an indicator of 10 units is suitable.
Type number 5. This segment includes citizens living in the expanses of North Africa. People with very dark skin can spend hours under the scorching sun without risking sunburn. But for protection purposes, it is still worth using a tool with a minimum protection factor.
Suitable SPF
- Choosing the right sunscreen with a filter should be based on your skin type and how long you've been exposed to UV rays. For normal skin type and tone (European), it is customary to use a composition with an index of 20-30 units.
- The product with a protective filter protects the skin from the aggressive effects of the sun and allows you to get a uniform tan. If you have recently had peeling or you have minor burns, allergies, it is better to choose a cream with an index of 50 or more. The product is great for pigmented skin.
Care products
- Direct sunlight adversely affects the condition skin. Therefore, such a phenomenon can be considered a full-fledged test without protective equipment.
- Experts recommend purchasing creams not only with the function of protecting against ultraviolet rays, but also with the ability to nourish skin cells with the necessary enzymes.
- A suitable remedy in this case is the presence of panthenol, vegetable oils and soothing extracts in the composition.
Product quality
- Most little-known companies produce sun protection products with an overestimated filter rating.
- Therefore, try to purchase sunscreens from famous manufacturers. These products are subject to strict controls. The packaging indicates the declared level of SPF.
Allergy cream test
- If you suffer from any allergic reaction, the remedy must be selected especially carefully. Study the composition of the sunscreen, it may contain ingredients that provoke allergies.
- Some people are sensitive to certain minerals. These include compounds of "sunscreens". If you have hyper sensitive skin, an unpleasant reaction can be provoked by "sunblocks".
Cream water resistance
- If you are going to take sunbathing near a body of water, it is necessary to select a product on a waterproof basis.
- Keep in mind, in any case, after bathing, it is recommended to reapply the composition. The cream will help protect the dermis while swimming.
SPF index
- When choosing a cream, it is important to consider your own age. How older man, the higher the index protection score should be.
- AT adulthood skin needs proper care and more strong protection from the aggressive effects of ultraviolet radiation. natural functions age epidermis are greatly reduced.
- When choosing protective cosmetics, be sure to take into account the characteristics of the skin. If you are going on vacation near water bodies, give preference to moisture-resistant compounds. Such creams are not washed off with water and remain on the skin for a long time.
- Give preference to protective creams with the ability to care for the skin. Such products should include soft nutritional components. The composition will provide protection, prevent redness and dehydration of cells.
- If you are the owner of a sensitive skin, in the first days of rest in the open sun, give preference to sunscreens with maximum protection from ultraviolet rays.
- To protect the skin of the face from the aggressive sun, you need to use individual cosmetics with a targeted effect. You can use sunscreen under makeup. The main condition remains that the product should be well absorbed and not leave a shine.
- Keep in mind that a thick sunscreen protects against ultraviolet radiation much better than any spray. If you intend to apply the cream daily, give preference to a product with SPF protection. As a rule, it can be the usual BB cream or foundation.
- When purchasing a composition, always pay attention to the expiration date. The cream should have a uniform consistency. It is also recommended to buy funds issued this year, despite the fact that last year's ones have not expired.
Tips for using sunscreen
Many people simply do not know how to use sunscreen, how much to apply it.
- The composition with a chemical filter is distributed 30-40 minutes before going out into the scorching sun. If we are talking about a physical filter, it can be distributed on the skin a quarter of an hour before sunbathing.
- If you do not swim, then the cream will last and will work for 2 hours. After the specified period, it must be reapplied. If you swim in the sea, the composition is used immediately after leaving the water.
- The recommendations of experts say that the volume of the cream should be comparable to a tennis ball. But no one uses this amount, but you should not regret the cream, apply it in large quantities.
- If you are going on vacation, it is better to stock up on several types of funds with different factor protection. In the first money, apply the composition with SPF-50, then gradually switch to SPF-30, 20.
It is easy to choose a quality sunscreen, given some of the nuances and features of the skin. Be careful when choosing a remedy if you have allergic reactions. Purchase qualitative composition from a famous brand.
Video: how to choose sunscreen
Summer's soon! ☀ The sun is shining with might and main, someone is already planning a vacation, which means it's time to talk about sunscreen.
After a long winter and frosts, you especially want to soak up the sun. But the sun also has dark side”, which can cause significant harm to our skin and the whole body. To enjoy the sun safely, you need to study it from all angles.
In this post, we will talk in detail about the types of solar radiation, sunscreens, what SPF, PPD, PA, IPD are on sunscreen jars, and what products with SPF are.
solar radiation
Sunlight is divided into 3 spectra:
- ultraviolet;
- visible light;
- infrared radiation (heat).
From the point of view of the impact on the skin, we are interested in ultraviolet rays (ultraviolet), which, in turn, are divided into UVC, UVB and UVA.
UVC rays (ultraviolet C rays)
These are the strongest and most dangerous rays. But, fortunately for us, they are absorbed by the ozone layer and do not reach the Earth's surface. Therefore, UVC rays do not affect the skin in any way, and we will not talk about them further.
UVB rays (ultraviolet B rays)
They are also partially absorbed by the ozone layer, but the rest reaches the Earth's surface. These rays are most active during the period from spring to autumn, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
They act on the surface of the skin, penetrate into its upper layer (epidermis), but do not reach the deep layers (dermis). It is these rays in small doses that cause sunburn, and in large doses - sunburn, are involved in photoaging, can cause skin cancer and eye damage.
UVA rays (ultraviolet A rays)
They are divided into long (UVA1) and short (UVA2).
They are not absorbed by the ozone layer at all and reach the Earth's surface. Equally active throughout the year, at any time of the day. Can penetrate glass and light clothing. The number of UVA rays is many times greater than the number of UVB rays.
These are the most insidious rays. They penetrate the epidermis and deep into the dermis, damaging the DNA of cells. They change their structure, increase the level of genetic mutations and can cause skin cancer.
UVA rays are responsible for hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, dryness and freckles. Much less likely than UVB, but they can also cause sunburn and sunburn. Actively participate in photoaging. Long term exposure a large number UVA rays cause damage to collagen and elastin fibers. This leads to wrinkles and premature aging.
UVA are the main rays used in tanning beds.
Important nuances
All rays become stronger at altitude (for example, in the mountains). Each kilometer up increases the radiation intensity by as much as 12%. Therefore, in the mountains, sunscreen (or even a stick is better) is an absolute must-have.
All rays can be reflected to varying degrees from surfaces - snow, ice, water, and even asphalt, grass and sand. It also increases the intensity of radiation at times. Therefore, protection is always important - while swimming at the sea, in a ski resort and in the city.
Up to 80% of rays penetrate clouds. Therefore, protection from the "sun" is important even on cloudy days.
Sun protection
When it comes to the sun, the main thing is to know the measure. A small amount of Ultraviolet radiation is good for the skin and the body and is necessary for the production of vitamin D.
Excessive UV radiation damages the skin and its immune system, thickens it, disrupts blood supply, and causes photoaging. Skin aging is 70% dependent on ultraviolet radiation.
Moreover, any doses of UV radiation remain in the body and accumulate throughout life. Especially dangerous severe burns- to blisters and peeling skin. The body remembers every time you "fried".
Sunburn continues to develop (worse) for up to 12 to 24 hours after it occurs.
In order to protect our delicate skin from the negative effects of ultraviolet radiation and use sunscreens in cosmetics.
Sun protection filters
There are various substances that selectively absorb, reflect and neutralize the action of UV rays. That is what they are called sunscreen or UV (UV) filters.
UV filters are also added to cosmetics to protect them from damage and degradation in the light.
Filters are physical, chemical and natural.
Physical filters
reflect Sun rays. Distributed over the surface of the skin, forming a dense, impermeable film. They act as a mini-shell, shield or screen, from which the sun's rays "ricochet" like darts.
Means based only on physical filters, as a rule, give a basic and average protection factor.
Examples of physical filters (what to look for on the label): zinc oxide (zinc oxide); titanium dioxide (titanium dioxide).
"Pros +". These are "broad spectrum" filters - they protect against both UVB and UVA rays. They are not absorbed by the skin and do not react with it. They are effective even at low concentrations, non-toxic, photostable (do not decompose in the light) and have a low cost. They begin to act immediately after application to the skin.
"Minuses - ". At high concentrations, they create a white effect on the skin, they are dense, opaque, can dry out, are not waterproof, and do not combine well with many components of cosmetic formulas. Theoretically, they can clog pores (with a tendency).
The best choice for sensitive, hypersensitive, reactive skin, organics and children. Children's sunscreen cosmetics must contain only physical filters.
Chemical filters
Absorb UV radiation and block its penetration into the skin. Some chemical filters also reflect and scatter the rays. distributed over the surface of the skin and top layer epidermis. Practically do not penetrate deeper. They do not enter the body, do not have any harmful effects on cells and the circulatory system, and do not cause hormonal imbalance.
Depending on the specific substance, they protect either from UVA or UVB, or from both types of rays.
Examples of chemical filters (what to look for on the label): avobenzone (avobenzone); mexoryl (Mexoryl SX and XL); tinosorb (Tinosorb S and M); octocrylene (octocrylene); padimat O (padimate O); cinnamates (-cinnamate); oxybenzone, benzophenone-3 (oxybenzone, benzophenone-3); sulisobenzone (sulisobenzone); octylsalicylate (octyl salicylate).
"Pros +". Very efficient. Water resistant. Provides a high protection factor. Do not leave marks on the skin, usually liquid, colorless and odorless.
"Minuses - ". The mechanism of chemical filters is essentially a chemical reaction on the skin. They come into contact with radiation, absorb it and release heat. As a result, the temperature of the skin rises. They can cause allergies and provoke the development of rosacea. They may or may not be photostable. They begin to act only 20-30 minutes after application to the skin.
The inscription "sunblock" on the bottle usually implies the presence of physical filters, the inscription "sunscreen" - chemical. However, these are very arbitrary terms. The Americans, for example, banned the use of the inscription "sunblock", because no product can completely block the sun's rays.
natural filters
Natural, or natural, filters include many base oils. They can both reflect and absorb UV radiation.
For example: carrot seed oil (SPF 38-40 according to various sources), raspberry seed oil (SPF 28-50), wheat germ oil (SPF 20), avocado oil (SPF 4-15), Coconut oil(SPF 2-8), Olive Oil (SPF 2-8), Macadamia Oil (SPF 6), Almond Oil (SPF 5), Sesame Oil (SPF 5), Shea Butter (SPF 3-6), Jojoba Oil (SPF four).
Of course, you should not rely completely on natural filters for sun protection.
They are not enough. First, they create a film that is too thin and not effective enough. Secondly, the oils attract the sun's rays and enhance the tan. And third, the SPF values vary too much. But in combination with physical and chemical natural filters are wonderful.
Wear and photostability of filters
Physical and chemical filters tend to "wear out".
Physical ones are erased, for example, by contact with a towel. And each molecule of a chemical filter, when a photon of a solar beam hits it, dies and is converted into heat. Thus, it is consumed like, for example, gasoline for a car or food for the body.
That is why it is necessary to constantly update the protection. The more sun - the more often the repetition.
Some substances are more resistant to light (photostable), others die less and faster. Some filters can stabilize others (for example, mexoril stabilizes avobenzene), others, on the contrary, destroy each other (like octinoxate and avobenzene).
In addition, not all filters provide protection against both types of rays on their own. Therefore, a whole cocktail of filters is used in sunscreens (usually there are about 5 of them). The higher the protection - the more filters can be found in one jar.
A good sunscreen should provide protection from both UVB and UVA rays. Ideal Ratio filters UVB to UVA - 1:1.
What to look for on the label
SPF (UVB protection)
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, i.e. sun protection factor. it an indicator that determines the ability of a cosmetic product to protect the skin from burns. It is calculated by smart uncles in white coats in laboratories.
The SPF calculation measures how much UV radiation it takes for our unprotected skin to begin to burn compared to sunscreen-covered skin. The SPF value indicates what % of UV rays will be blocked. It is defined in numbers from 2 to 100. The higher the SPF, the more rays will be reflected (absorbed), and the higher the level of protection of the product from sunburn.
Probably many people know the formula: the amount of time that you can spend in the sun without sunburn without sunscreen (for example, 30 minutes) x the value of the SPF (for example, 10) = the amount of time that you can sunbathe serenely in the sun, smeared with this SPF (in our case - 30x10 = 300 minutes, i.e. as much as 5 hours). It would seem that everything is right? And here it is not.
Why? Because SPF does not define duration sun exposure, and amount solar irradiation. Duration is just one of the factors. The intensity of the radiation is no less important. For example, 1 hour in the sun at 9 am is equal to 15 minutes at 1 pm in terms of the effect on the skin. Another important factor- geography. The closer to the equator, the more intense the solar radiation. Do not forget about the weather, you can get a burn under a cloudy sky. Therefore, it is impossible to be guided only by the above formula.
Important! SPF measures protection against sunburn (UVB rays) only, but it does not measure protection against the harmful effects of UVA rays.
For clarity, SPF can be divided into protection levels.
- SPF (2-10) - basic.
- SPF (15-25) - medium.
- SPF (30-100) - high.
But no cream, even with SPF 100, provides 100% protection from radiation. For total protection from the sun can only be given by a deaf bunker deep underground. Therefore, one should not think that having smeared himself with “weaving” you can “fry on the beach” all day without loss to health.
Another misconception is that, for example, SPF 30 gives 2 times more protection than SPF 15, and SPF 60 gives 2 times more protection than SPF 30. This is not true. The difference between SPF 15 and 100 is only 6%.
Let's see what % of the sun's rays reflect a particular SPF.
SPF 2 - 50%; SPF 6 - 83%; SPF 10 - 90%; SPF 15 - 93%; SPF 20 - 95%; SPF 25 - 96%; SPF 30 - 97%; SPF 45 - 97%; SPF 50 - 98%; SPF 60 - 98%; SPF 100 - 99%.
As you can see, smearing too much SPF does not make much sense. SPF 100 is more of a marketing ploy.
Moreover, the higher the SPF, the fatter and denser it feels on the skin. SPF 15 is much nicer to the touch than SPF 30. And SPF 100, uh… let's just say, it's phew. ☹
When choosing an SPF, be guided by the following factors:
- phototype, skin color- red-haired owners porcelain skin with freckles, you need a higher SPF (from 50);
- season- in summer you need a higher SPF than in winter;
- Times of Day- from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. UVB rays are the most active;
- cloudiness- cloudless skies require a higher SPF;
- geography, climate and sun intensity- where you are - near the Equator or beyond the Arctic Circle - matters, the hot UAE and central Russia require a different degree of protection;
- location- the sea and mountains require a higher SPF than a dacha in the suburbs.
PPD, PA and IPD (UVA protection)
The commonly accepted measure of protection against UVB rays is the SPF index. A measure of protection against UVA rays are the PPD, PA and IPD indices. A generally accepted, precise and ideal measure of protection against UVA rays does not currently exist in nature. AT different countries different indexes are used.
Persistent Pigment Darkening (PPD)
Literally - a stable darkening of the pigment. Originally developed in Japan, adopted in Europe and the USA. You will find this icon on most European and American products.
Shows how much the product will reduce the penetration of UVA rays into the skin. The higher the number, the better, the minimum recommended index is 8, the maximum is 42. This means that 42% of the rays will be blocked.
It is the PPD index that is currently considered the most accurate in Europe and America.
Protection Grade of UVA (PA)
Literally - the degree of protection against UVA. Appeared relatively recently and adopted in Japan and Korea. Similar to PPD. Denoted + from 1 to 4.
The ratio of PA and PPD indices: PA+ = PPD 2-4, PA++ = PPD 4-8, PA+++ = PPD 8-16, PA++++ = PPD 16 and above.
The more + PA and the higher the number and PPD - the better the protection.
Immediate Pigment Darkening (IPD)
Literally - instant darkening of the pigment.
The maximum index is 90. It means that the skin is 90% protected from UVA rays.
If neither PPD, nor PA, nor IPD are on the jar, look for UVA in a circle without numbers. It means protection from UVA rays, but without specifics. Also circled UVA means that the ratio of UVA to UVB filters is 1:3.
What else is added to sunscreen
Excessive solar exposure can lead to the appearance of free radicals in the body - unstable and highly reactive oxygen molecules that damage tissues at the molecular level, destroying and altering DNA.
Read more about sun protection in our series of "solar" ☀ posts:
Stay with us, upgrade your cosmetic literacy and be beautiful.
See you on the air of LaraBarBlog. ♫
it cosmetic product Protects you from two types of harmful sun rays: UVB and UVA. The former cause sunburn, the latter do not, but both types make the skin less elastic, activate the aging process and increase the risk of skin cancer.And all creams protect equally?
No, the degree of protection depends on the value of the sun protection factor SPF, which ranges from 2 to 50. The higher the SPF value, the more sun rays it filters, and you can stay in the sun longer without the risk of sunburn. For example, SPF 2 filters about 50% of UV rays, while SPF 50 filters up to 98%.Which one to choose?
If you go out under the sun from time to time, no longer than a few minutes, dermatologists advise How to choose the right sunscreen for your skin type. cream with SPF 15. If you are outside continuously for a long time, choose a cream with SPF 30 or higher.Also affects the degree of protection.
Wouldn't it be easier to buy SPF 50 for any skin since it protects so well?
No, because sunscreens are not 100% safe. Some of the substances that make up their composition can cause skin irritation, rashes and acne. Others suspect toxicity and the ability to disrupt the hormonal system, although this has not been proven.The lower the SPF level and the amount of potentially harmful substances in the cream, the better.
Do not abuse protection if you do not need it.
Means, creams differ only on SPF?
No, sunscreens also differ in active ingredients and are divided into chemical and physical. Chemicals are absorbed into the skin and absorb the sun's rays, turning them into thermal energy. Physical ones create a protective screen on the surface of the skin and reflect ultraviolet radiation.And which is better to choose?
Chemical products do not leave streaks and are more resistant to water and sweat. However, unlike physical ones, they are more dangerous for the skin: they can cause allergies and irritation, and their protection begins only 20 minutes after application.If you have sensitive skin and don't want to pre-apply sunscreen before sun exposure, opt for physical creams. If you are going to swim, actively train, do not like oily texture and stains on the skin - choose chemical ones.
In addition, pay attention to what types of rays the selected cream protects against.
