What to consider when applying sun protection factor?

Currently, the answer to the question regarding the importance of protection from the sun's rays is clear to everyone (a small reminder: wrinkles, age spots, skin cancer, pigment spots). Nevertheless, even the most informed adults are often confused about how much sun protection to use, when to apply it, how often to reapply it, etc. We bring you scientifically based answers to some of the top questions regarding sun protection.

1. What is the correct SPF factor value?

SPF should be 15 or higher - ideally 30 or more if you are going to spend a longer time outdoors. The label “broad-spectrum” on the packaging informs that the product is an effective protection against UVA and UVB rays. UVB radiation is scary for the top layer of the skin. UVA can penetrate deeper into the skin, disrupts cell DNA and causes age spots and accelerates skin ageing.

2. What amount of protection factor to apply?

Every skin is different and can handle different intensity and amount of solar radiation. It is divided into 5 basic phototypes (from the lightest to the darkest).

Almost nobody uses the correct amount of sunscreen. To cover each arm, use approximately one teaspoon of cream, another for your face, and another to cover your neck and décolletage. Use a tablespoon of product for your stomach and also for each leg. For a single application, you'll use approximately 35 ml of product, depending on the size of the 'area'. Your skin should have a uniform sheen at the end. One layer during the day is far from sufficient and it is necessary to reapply it every two hours.

3. Which areas of the body do people often miss?

Skin cancers can appear on any part of the body, even those not exposed to UV rays. However, people tend to forget sun protection on the tips and backs of their ears, exposed scalp, back of the neck, around the eyes, and the tops of their hands and feet.

The lips, especially the lower lip, are highly susceptible to skin cancer because they are also exposed to the sun every day and are one of the most common sites for basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas. Choose a lip balm - or sunscreen designed specifically for lips - with SPF 15 or higher.

Hair helps protect the scalp from the sun's rays to some extent. However, we need more protection, especially if the hair is fine. Another preventive measure is a head covering.

4. Are creams or make-up with a sun protection factor sufficient?

That kind of protection is sufficient if you only spend a few minutes in the sun each day. Using products with sunscreen ingredients is a great way to increase your level of sun protection, but you shouldn't rely on them for adequate sun protection.
Optimal solution: Apply sunscreen under your make-up or use a lightly tinted fTinted Face Serum SPF25 Bio Damascena Alteya 50ml

Note: Using two products that are each SPF 15 does not equal SPF 30.

5. Do I need to use sunscreen even if I'm indoors all day?

Yes, you should wear it every day. Windows - at home, on trains, planes and in cars - allow UVA rays to pass through.

Remember: Even though sunscreen is a crucial step in sun protection, it's not enough on its own. Follow these other preventative measures: Seek shade whenever possible, and wear sun-protective clothing, a hat, and UV-blocking sunglasses. During the peak intensity of the sun's rays from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, stick to the shady sides of the street.

You can find all sunscreens in one place: emerosa/sunbathing