As the summer months approach, you may be looking forward to soaking up some sun and enjoying outdoor activities. But have you given any thought to protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful UV radiation? If not, it’s time to make SPF your new must-have for healthy, glowing skin.
The Importance of Understanding Sunscreen
Sunscreen is a product that prevents skin damage by blocking the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. These rays damage the skin by causing premature aging, wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots and can even increase the risk of developing skin cancer.
At Estie Co, we highly recommend the GlyMed Plus SPF which is a Photo-Age Environmental Protection Gel with an SPF of 30+. This gel comes with a lightweight and oil-free feel making your skin feel hydrated and refreshed.
The Link Between UV Radiation and Skin Damage
To fully understand why face SPF matters, you need to know about the science of UV radiation and sun protection factor (SPF). There are three types of UV radiation – UVC, UCA, and UVB. UVC rays are the most dangerous type of UV radiation, but thankfully our atmosphere absorbs this type of ray before it reaches the earth’s surface. UVA radiation contributes to premature aging, while UVB radiation causes sunburn. Both types can lead to skin cancer over time. Sunscreen is formulated to protect the skin by blocking or absorbing UVA and UVB radiation.
The SPF number on a sunscreen label indicates how well it can protect against UV radiation. For instance, using an SPF 30 product will filter around 97% of the UV radiation, while an SPF 50 product will filter 98%. When outdoors for extended periods, it’s essential to use an SPF of 30 or higher to prevent sunburn and reduce skin damage throughout the day.
SPF Benefits: Much More Than Sunburn Prevention
Safeguarding your skin with SPF provides numerous benefits beyond preventing sunburn. Here’s why you should incorporate it into your everyday routine:
Prevents Sunburn Across All Skin Types
A painful sunburn is not only inconvenient but can also elevate the risk of developing cancer. Wearing sunscreen protects your skin from ultraviolet rays that create sunburn after prolonged exposure to the sun.
Reduces the Risk of Premature Aging
UVA rays speed up the aging process of the skin, leading to wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots earlier than expected. Sunscreen helps guard your skin against constant exposure to these harmful rays leading to healthier skin for years to come.
Defends Against Skin Cancer
Overexposure to harmful UV rays is a primary cause of skin cancer, including melanoma. By harnessing the power of sunscreen, you create a protective shield against these harmful rays, regardless of your skin type. Make the proactive choice to apply face SPF every day and take charge of your long-term health.
Selecting and Applying the Right SPF
With so many options available, it’s critical to choose the right sunscreen and apply it correctly. Here are a few critical factors to keep in mind:
Go for Broad-Spectrum Solar Protection
An excellent place to begin when selecting sunscreen is checking for products that have indicated broad-spectrum defense on the product packaging. These products are designed to safeguard against both UVA and UVB rays.
Water Resistance Is Essential
Water-resistant SPF is excellent for swimming or other sweaty sports activities. It will guarantee sustained protection for extended hours during your day outside.
Proper Application Is Crucial
When it comes to sunscreen, proper application is crucial to ensure maximum effectiveness. Here are some important points to keep in mind for optimal application:
- Timing: Apply sunscreen at least thirty minutes before you go outdoors to allow it to bond with your skin and provide adequate protection.
- Sufficient Amount: You need about ¼ teaspoon of sunscreen to adequately cover your face. An easy way to measure this is to dispense a line of sunscreen onto your pointer and middle fingers on one hand. Be sure to apply enough sunscreen to cover your entire body.
- Complete Coverage: Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to all exposed areas of your body, including your face, neck, ears, arms, and legs. Remember to pay extra attention to commonly overlooked areas like the back of your hands and the tops of your feet.
- Reapplication: Reapply sunscreen every two hours or more frequently if you are sweating heavily or engaging in water activities. Additionally, if you are using other skincare products like peptides or anti-aging creams, make sure to maintain sunscreen coverage by applying them before applying the sunscreen.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that you are effectively protecting your skin from the harmful effects of the sun. Remember, consistent and proper application of sunscreen is key to maintaining healthy and radiant skin.
Going Forward: Protect Your Skin, Live Your Best Life
With summer quickly approaching, it’s time to stock up on sunscreen that you’ll actually wear. At Estie Co., the Photo-Age Environmental Protection Gel 30+ from GlyMed Plus is a client favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
We hope we’ve provided answers to a few common questions you have. If you don’t spot your concern, DM us your question on IG and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.
Q: Is it safe to use sunscreen during pregnancy?
A: Yes, it is safe to use sunscreen during pregnancy. However, it is recommended that pregnant women choose formulations specifically designed for pregnancy. Consulting with your doctor will help determine which sunscreen product is most suitable for you.Q: Why is it important to use sunscreen regardless of the season?
A: UVA sunlight affects the skin throughout all seasons. Protecting your skin with sunscreen should be a year-round habit, as UVA rays can still penetrate clouds and car windows causing premature aging of the skin. Consistent sunscreen use reflects a thoughtful skincare approach that prioritizes long-term skin health.Q: How can I select the right face SPF?
A: Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen that provides protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Find a product that you like and use it!Q: What is the recommended amount of sunscreen to apply?
A: ¼ teaspoon is the recommended amount to adequately cover the face, neck, and ears.Q: Does sunscreen expire?
A: Yes, sunscreen has an expiration date. Using expired sunscreen can reduce its effectiveness, so be sure to check the date and replace it when necessary.Q: Can I use makeup with SPF instead of sunscreen?
A: Makeup with SPF can provide some protection, but it’s usually not enough. Apply a layer of sunscreen before your makeup for optimal protection.Q: Do I need to wear sunscreen indoors?
A: If you spend most of your day near windows, it’s a good idea to apply sunscreen, as UVA rays can penetrate glass and contribute to skin damage.Q: Can I use sunscreen on my baby?
A: Sunscreen is generally safe for babies older than six months. For younger infants, keep them in the shade and dress them in protective clothing.