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 tricky. In this article, we will look at 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, 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 the sun's rays. Any such 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 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 normally burns after 10 minutes in the sun, using an SPF 30 sunscreen protects your skin for about 30 times longer, or about 300 minutes.
However, it is important to understand that the marker does not indicate general protection. It refers only to protection against sunburn caused by UV-B rays. Therefore, it is recommended to choose sunscreens with a broad spectrum of protection that also offer protection against UV-A rays.
In addition, the surrounding conditions and activities should be taken into account. If you are in the sun for a long time or do sports, choose a water-resistant 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 to fully protect against the harmful effects of the sun.
What is SPF cosmetics and how does it work?
First of all, it is a measure of protection against the sun's rays, which the best sunscreen cosmetics offer. 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: UV-A and UV-B.UV-A rays penetrate into the deep layers of the skin and can lead to photoaging, 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 the sun's rays. Any such 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 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 normally burns after 10 minutes in the sun, using an SPF 30 sunscreen protects your skin for about 30 times longer, or about 300 minutes.
However, it is important to understand that the marker does not indicate general protection. It refers only to protection against sunburn caused by UV-B rays. Therefore, it is recommended to choose sunscreens with a broad spectrum of protection that also offer protection against UV-A rays.
How to choose an SPF face cream?
There are several important factors to consider when choosing an SPF sunscreen for your face . Here are some recommendations to 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. It is generally recommended to use an SPF of 30 or higher to ensure reliable protection against UV rays.
- Pay attention to the presence of the "broad spectrum" mark on the package. This means that the cream offers protection against 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 comfortable use of the cream during 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 buying. This will help you determine if the product is suitable for your skin and meets your preferences.
In addition, the surrounding conditions and activities should be taken into account. If you are in the sun for a long time or do sports, choose a water-resistant 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 to fully protect against the harmful effects of the sun.
