ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SPF

December 13, 2022

SPF stand for Sun Protection Factor. It is the way we measure protection from UV rays. The higher the SPF, the longer you can last in the sun without burning. There are many misconceptions related to sun protection, one of which is that we only need it during extremely hot weather.

With this in mind, let's take a look at some of the myths, and some of the facts.

SPF MYTHS

You are likely to have heard the following myths about SPF. Be warned, they are not true.

Suncream is only needed during summer
A base tan protects you from sun and burning
One application of suncream lasts all-day
Suncream causes health issues
Suncream isn't always necessary
People with dark skin don't need SPF
A tan will protect you from burning
You cannot tan whilst wearing suncream

HOW TO USE SPF

What sun factor should I use?

Skincare specialists recommend that you use between SPF 30 and 50. Whilst SPF 15 only blocks 93% of sun rays, SPF 30 covers 97% and SPF 50 blocks 98%.

When do I need SPF?

Dermatologists now advise that SPF is used all year round; it doesn't matter what colour your skin is or where you live.

Protecting your skin against both UVA (ageing) and UVB (burning) rays can seriously reduce the chances of fine lines and wrinkles, blotchy skin & hyperpigmentation and even skin cancer.

Surprising situations you might not have thought SPF was necessary:

During the winter months
Indoors - UVA light can still affect us even through glass windows
Cloudy days
High altitudes
When wearing thin items of clothes

How often do I need to reapply suncream?

It is advised that you reapply SPF every 2 hours as it's likely that you will have sweated off coverage in this time.

SPF BENEFITS

Some of the benefits of wearing SPF daily include

Help to maintain an even skin tone
Protection against premature ageing
Broad-spectrum sunscreens are the best
Protects against skin disease

RECOMMENDED SPF PRODUCTS

In 2016 a team released a study about the shockingly negative impact that certain ingredients in suncream have on juvenile corals and on other marine life. It's important to look out for toxic ingredients including Oxybenzone and BP-3.

Here are a few of the suncreams without toxic ingredients for people and sea life: