Which SPF is best for the face, how to choose?
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Sun protection is an integral part of regular skin care. SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is an indicator that indicates the level of protection against UV rays provided by sunscreen cosmetics for the face and body. However, choosing the right SPF for your face can be a little tricky. In this article, we will consider how to choose it and what factors should be taken into account.
UV-A rays penetrate into the deep layers of the skin and can lead to photoaging, the appearance of wrinkles, loss of elasticity and other skin damage. UV-B rays cause sunburn and are the main cause of skin cancer. The work of sunscreen cream, spray and milk with SPF is based on two main mechanisms: reflection and absorption of sunlight. Any similar product contains active ingredients that create a barrier on the surface of the skin, reflecting and scattering UV rays.
The most popular active ingredient in sunscreen cosmetics is oxybenzone, which absorbs and converts UV rays into less harmful forms of energy. Other physical filters, such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, can also be used. SPF indicates how much longer the skin can be protected from sunburn than without the use of cosmetics. For example, if your skin usually burns after 10 minutes in the sun, then using a sunscreen with SPF 30 protects your skin for about 30 times longer, that is, about 300 minutes.
However, it is important to understand that the marker does not indicate general protection. It applies only to protection against sunburn caused by UV-B rays. Therefore, it is recommended to choose sunscreens with a wide spectrum of protection, which also offer protection from UV-A rays.
In addition, environmental conditions and activities should be taken into account. If you are in the sun for a long time or do sports, choose a waterproof product with a higher degree of protection.
Do not forget that the product is only one of the components of sun protection. Additional measures, such as wearing protective clothing, hats and sunglasses, are also necessary for complete protection from the harmful effects of the sun.
What is SPF cosmetics and how does it work?
First of all, this is a measure of protection against the sun's rays, which is offered by the best sun protection cosmetics. SPF indicates how much the product is able to protect the skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays and protects the skin from two types of them: UV-A and UV-B.UV-A rays penetrate into the deep layers of the skin and can lead to photoaging, the appearance of wrinkles, loss of elasticity and other skin damage. UV-B rays cause sunburn and are the main cause of skin cancer. The work of sunscreen cream, spray and milk with SPF is based on two main mechanisms: reflection and absorption of sunlight. Any similar product contains active ingredients that create a barrier on the surface of the skin, reflecting and scattering UV rays.
The most popular active ingredient in sunscreen cosmetics is oxybenzone, which absorbs and converts UV rays into less harmful forms of energy. Other physical filters, such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, can also be used. SPF indicates how much longer the skin can be protected from sunburn than without the use of cosmetics. For example, if your skin usually burns after 10 minutes in the sun, then using a sunscreen with SPF 30 protects your skin for about 30 times longer, that is, about 300 minutes.
However, it is important to understand that the marker does not indicate general protection. It applies only to protection against sunburn caused by UV-B rays. Therefore, it is recommended to choose sunscreens with a wide spectrum of protection, which also offer protection from UV-A rays.
How to choose an SPF face cream?
When choosing a sunscreen with SPF for the face, several important factors should be considered. Here are some recommendations that will help you make the right choice:- Consider your skin type. If you have dry skin, preference should be given to moisturizing formulas with a denser texture. Light and weightless textures that do not clog pores are recommended for oily or combination skin.
- Depending on how sensitive you are to the sun, choose a product with an appropriate SPF. In general, it is recommended to use a product with SPF 30 or higher to provide reliable protection against UV rays.
- Pay attention to the presence of the mark "broad spectrum" on the package. This means that the cream offers protection from both UV-A and UV-B rays. Such protection will help prevent photoaging and reduce the risk of skin cancer.
- Choose a product with a light and non-greasy texture that is easy to apply and quickly absorbed. This will help to avoid the feeling of stickiness and to comfortably use the cream throughout the day.
- If you have special skin care needs, pay attention to the additional properties of the cream. For example, some contain antioxidants, vitamins, or moisturizing ingredients that can provide additional benefits to your skin.
- If possible, ask for samples to test them on your skin before purchasing. This will help you determine whether the product is suitable for your skin and meets your preferences.
In addition, environmental conditions and activities should be taken into account. If you are in the sun for a long time or do sports, choose a waterproof product with a higher degree of protection.
Do not forget that the product is only one of the components of sun protection. Additional measures, such as wearing protective clothing, hats and sunglasses, are also necessary for complete protection from the harmful effects of the sun.
