What is SPF and why is it good for your skin?
You may have heard the phrase SPF and know that it’s related to sunscreen, but what exactly does it means and why is it important for your skin?
In the studio, we find that many of our clients understand that SPF is important, but frequently leave their skin unprotected and exposed to the sun’s harsh rays.
So let us break down how SPF works, the benefits of using an SPF, the difference between UVA and UVB rays, and recommend some of the best SPF products for your face.
What does SPF mean?
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, which is a measure of how well your sunscreen protects you from the sun’s harmful UV (ultraviolet) rays. The SPF number on a sunscreen product represents the level of protection it provides against UVB rays, which are the type of rays that cause sunburn and contribute to skin cancer.
The higher the SPF number, the more protection the sunscreen provides. For example, an SPF 30 sunscreen will block approximately 97% of UVB rays, while an SPF 50 sunscreen will block approximately 98% of UVB rays. No sunscreen can block 100% of UVB rays.
The SPF rating also indicates how much longer you can stay in the sun without getting burned compared to how long it would take without any sunscreen. For example, if you normally start to burn after 10 minutes in the sun without any protection, an SPF 30 sunscreen should allow you to stay in the sun for 300 minutes (10 minutes x 30 SPF).
Why should you use an SPF on your face?
Using an SPF on your face is important for several reasons:
Prevents sunburn: Sunburn is painful and damaging to your skin. An SPF can help prevent sunburn and keep your skin healthy and comfortable
Protects against skin cancer: Exposure to UV radiation from the sun is a significant risk factor for developing skin cancer, including melanoma. Using an SPF helps to protect your skin from these harmful rays and reduces your risk of developing skin cancer
Prevents premature ageing: UV radiation also contributes to premature ageing, such as wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots. Using an SPF can help to combat these signs of ageing and keep your skin looking youthful
Helps even out skin tone: Sun damage can cause uneven skin tone and dark spots. Using an SPF can help prevent these issues and keep your skin looking even and smooth.
So in short, using an SPF on your face is an important step in protecting your skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation and keeping it healthy, youthful, and even-toned.
What is UVA and UVB?
UVA and UVB are both types of ultraviolet (UV) radiation that are emitted by the sun and can cause damage to your skin.
UVA radiation has a longer wavelength than UVB radiation and can penetrate deeper into your skin. UVA radiation is responsible for skin ageing and can also contribute to the development of skin cancer.
UVB radiation has a shorter wavelength and mostly affects the outer layer of your skin. UVB radiation is responsible for sunburn and also contributes to the development of skin cancer.
Both UVA and UVB radiation can be harmful to your skin and can cause damage even on cloudy or overcast days. That's why it's important to protect your skin with a broad-spectrum sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB radiation, and to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun during peak hours (usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.).
Can you tan with SPF 30 or SPF 50?
Yes, you can still tan while wearing SPF 30 or SPF 50, but the level of protection provided by the sunscreen will reduce the amount of UV radiation that penetrates your skin and slows down the tanning process.
The SPF number indicates the level of protection the sunscreen provides against UVB rays, which are the type of rays that cause sunburn and contribute to skin cancer. However, it does not affect the amount of UVA radiation that your skin is exposed to, which can also cause skin damage and contribute to skin cancer.
If you want to get a tan, it's still important to use sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation. However, it's important to remember that any amount of tanning indicates skin damage and increases your risk of developing skin cancer. So, it's best to avoid excessive sun exposure and always wear sunscreen, even if you want to get a tan.
The best SPFs
Everyday Humans make lightweight and planet-friendly SPFs for all skin types. Their multipurpose products combine sun care and skincare to protect and nourish your skin, while saving you time.
Everyday Humans Oh My Bod! SPF50 Sunscreen Lotion
Oh My Bod! is an everyday face and body lotion that, despite being SPF50, manages to be lightweight and fast absorbing without sacrificing effectiveness. It’s perfect for active people, and remains sweat and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. It’s also deeply hydrating, nourishing and full of antioxidants, including cucumber and green tea.
Everyday Humans Resting Beach Face SPF30 Sunscreen Lotion
Resting Beach Face is a wonderful lower SPF product that’s perfect for everyday use. This super lightweight sunscreen provides invisible protection against UVA and UVB rays, and works well with makeup, leaving you with a glowing, radiant finish. It also has anti-pollution properties and fights signs of premature ageing.
