There are two types of SPF Chemical and Physical.
Mineral SPF, also known as physical SPF, uses natural minerals such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to physically block UV rays from penetrating the skin.
Chemical SPF absorbs the sun's rays before reaching the skin, Chemical SPF, uses chemical compounds such as avobenzone and oxybenzone to absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, which is then released from the skin.
The type of SPF you opt for will depend on your skin type and the time of the year. While both types of SPF can effectively protect the skin from the sun, mineral SPF is often considered to be safer for the environment and less likely to cause skin irritation.
Only Factor 30 or above will do!
The SPF Factor is a scale used to measure the level of protection you get in your sunscreen against harmful UVB rays which are the rays that cause sunburn to the skin. A SPF of 15 filters 93% of UVB rays, whilst an SPF of 30 filters 97%, and an SPF of 50 filters 98%. It is important to be aware that no sunscreen provides 100% protection, and no matter what level of SPF you use, it is still necessary to reapply your sunscreen regularly and take other measures to protect your skin from the sun especially in the midday sun.
Understand what you are protecting your skin from!
UVA, is a type of electromagnetic radiation that is present in sunlight and contributes to the aging of skin and development of certain skin cancers. It has a longer wavelength than UVB and is able to penetrate deeper into the skin. UVA rays can also penetrate clouds and glass, meaning that skin is exposed to this type of radiation even when indoors or on a cloudy day. It is important to protect your skin from UVA rays by using sunscreen 365 days a year.
UVB is a type of ultraviolet light that has a shorter wavelength than UVA. It is responsible for causing sunburns and is also involved in the production of vitamin D in the skin. However, overexposure to UVB can lead to skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer. It is important to protect your skin from excessive UVB exposure by using sunscreen and protective clothing.
What is Blue Light damage?
Blue light is a high-energy visible light that is found in sunlight as well as electronic devices such as smartphones, laptops, and LED lights. Exposure to blue light can interfere with our sleep patterns, as it suppresses the release of melatonin, the hormone which regulates sleep. But more importantly It is a short-wavelength form of light that penetrates the skin deeper than UV rays, causing skin damage such as hyperpigmentation and accelerated aging. Protection against blue light includes using broad-spectrum sunscreen with iron oxide, which helps absorb blue light, and protective clothing. Skincare products formulated with antioxidants, such as vitamin C and E, also help combat the oxidative stress caused by blue light. Additionally, taking breaks from electronic devices and limiting screens before bedtime can reduce blue light exposure and benefit overall skin health.
UVA Protection is a must!
Whilst UVB protects your skin using the SPF sun factor system, it is still essential to look for an SPF that will protect you from UVA these SPFs are called Broad Spectrum and will be written on the bottle. To ensure the best level of UVA cover you are looking for the UVA Star or PA+ rating this indicates how effective the sun cream will be a blocking UVA rays. The Highest level is 5 Stars or PA ++++ which you should be looking to have in all your SPF's for opium protection.
Does SPF go off?
YES… All products will have life space of effectiveness. look for a small symbol on the packaging that looks like an open jar with a number followed by the letter "M" (e.g. "12M"). This indicates the number of months the product will remain effective after it has been opened. Alternatively, check the product label for a printed expiration date. Some products may also have a printed batch code that can be entered into a website or app to determine the date of manufacture and expiration. It's important to pay attention to these dates to ensure the product remains safe and effective for use on your skin.
If you would like any advice of what SPF might be best for you then simply contact myself Nicola at Complete Beauty on 07540890099 or info@completebeautybynicola.co.uk and I will be happy to help.
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