SPF Sunscreen Usage Instructions: Summer is here and it is time to take extra care of your skin, especially from the harmful effects of the sun. The sweltering heat and humidity make it extremely important to protect your skin from the sun’s harsh rays. It’s important to highlight that sunscreen can be your tool to protect your skin.
Experts often highlight that it is important to ensure that you have the right kind of Sun Protection Factor (SPF) to keep your skin healthy and hydrated this summer. But how much SPF is needed?
“It is important to protect your skin from the damaging effects of the sun to maintain its health and prevent conditions like sunburn, premature aging, and even skin cancer. We often rely on sunscreen to protect our skin from the sun’s rays, but understanding how sunscreen works and what SPF means is important for effective protection,” Priya Bhandari, Head of Training, Skeyndor told Financial Express.com. Skeyndor is a popular skincare brand from Spain.
According to Bhandari, SPF shows how well a sunscreen guards against sunburn and skin harm caused by UVB rays. If a sunscreen has SPF ++, it means it’s even better at shielding you from both UVB and UVA rays compared to one with just SPF.
“When you see SPF on a sunscreen bottle, it tells you how much longer you can stay in the sun without burning compared to not using sunscreen at all. For example, if you typically burn after 10 minutes in the sun, SPF 30 theoretically allows you to stay in the sun for about 300 minutes without burning. However, it’s important to know that SPF isn’t directly proportional to the level of protection,” She highlighted.
So, what SPF should you use?
For optimal protection, it is recommended using sunscreen with a broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher. Broad-spectrum means the sunscreen protects against both UVB and UVA rays, which can also damage the skin and contribute to aging and cancer, Bhandari said.
Remember, sunscreen should be just one part of your sun protection strategy. Seek shade during peak sun hours, wear protective clothing, including wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses, and avoid tanning beds altogether, she pointed out.
“In conclusion, SPF 30 or 50 is generally sufficient for everyday use, but higher SPFs may be warranted for specific circumstances. No matter how high the SPF of your sunscreen is, it’s important to always apply it properly and regularly, along with other ways to protect your skin from the sun. Protect your skin today for healthier, happier tomorrow,” she told Financial Express.com.
Before embarking on any outdoor activity, arming oneself with sunscreen is imperative, Mini Sood Banerjee, Assistant Director and Head of Marketing and Training, Amorepacific Group told Financial Express.com. Amorepacific Group owns the popular Korean-beauty brand, Laneige.
SPF emerges as the knight in shining armor for skincare during scorching summer days, combating the malevolent effects of sunburn, skin malignancies, and premature aging, Banerjee revealed.
“Determining the appropriate SPF for individual skin types can be perplexing, yet a general guideline suggests opting for a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. This ensures comprehensive protection against both UVB and UVA rays, safeguarding against sun-induced damageTailoring the SPF selection to one’s skin type and anticipated level of activity is paramount,” she told Financial Express.com.
For those engaging in vigorous outdoor pursuits, opting for a water-resistant sunscreen with a higher SPF is advisable, she said.
“Moreover, the necessity of sunscreen reapplication every two hours, or more frequently if engaging in water activities or perspiring profusely, cannot be overstated. Even the most potent sunscreen formulations gradually diminish over time, necessitating vigilant reapplication to maintain efficacy,” Banerjee said.
Thus, it’s prudent to carry a replenishing bottle of sunscreen to ensure uninterrupted protection against the sun’s potent rays throughout the day. By adhering to these practices, one can relish the sun’s warmth and radiance while safeguarding the skin’s health and vitality, she added.