Getting SPF ready- What you need to know!
Summer is upon us, which means braai days, poolside views and outdoor festivities. Before we step outdoors, it’s important to think about how we protect our skin from the sun and other sources of heat. Understanding what to look for in SPF can be confusing but when you know the dos and don’ts, it can be a lifesaver.
Karen Bester, Training Manager at Lamelle Research Laboratories says, “many people only use sunscreen with high SPF numbers, but to effectively protect your skin, you need to be looking out for a broad-spectrum SPF which will help protect your skin against UVA and UVB, visible Light, and infrared.”
Here is your quick how to guide on how to help you get the much-needed vitamin D without damaging your skin.
SPF 50 or SPF 30 – what’s the difference?
The number on your SPF shows how long sunscreen protects your skin from the sun. For example, if you use SPF 30, it takes 30 times longer for your skin to burn than if you didn’t use any sunscreen, however reapplying every two hours is still recommended for both.
An SPF of 30 lets about 3 percent of UVB rays reach your skin, while SPF 50 allows about 2 percent. Even though this seems like a small difference, SPF 30 actually lets in 50 percent more UV radiation than SPF 50. SPF 50 is often better for fair or sensitive skin, people spending extended time outdoors, or in high-altitude areas where UV exposure is greater.
Enough is enough:
Not applying enough sunscreen can leave your skin unprotected and applying too much can leave you feeling just a little too greasy. Two milligrams of sunscreen per square centimetre of skin is the first step towards the ride direction, you can use a general rule of thumb of applying two fingers worth (use your index and pointer fingers), or half a teaspoon, for your face AND neck. For the body, you can work on approximately the volume of a regular shot glass.
Reapplying sunscreen is very important when you're in direct sunlight. Make sure to apply it every two hours. If you're swimming or sweating, reapply it more often.
Know the difference between UVA and UVB:
Ultraviolet A (UVA) and Ultraviolet B (UVB) are types of sunlight that reach the Earth. UVA can cause skin aging, dark spots, and some skin cancers, such as squamous cell carcinoma. It is the second most common type it can damage skin even when you are behind glass. UVB causes sunburn and is linked to other skin cancers, such as basal cell carcinoma, and malignant melanoma.
While UVB is often the focus for many people because of its immediate and has ‘easy to spot’ damages it's important to ensure that your sunscreen also protects against UVA rays. A broad-spectrum SPF is the answer for all skin types and tones, as it protects the skin against both UVA and UVB rays.
Protect against Visible Light, and infrared:
Including protection against visible light and infrared radiation in sunscreen is essential because both can penetrate deeply into the skin and cause long-term damage. Visible light, especially high-energy blue light, can contribute to pigmentation issues and accelerate skin aging by generating free radicals. Infrared (IR) radiation, while not as commonly discussed, reaches even deeper layers of the skin, causing oxidative stress and inflammation, which can degrade collagen and elastin fibres over time. A sunscreen that guards against UV, visible light, and IR offers more comprehensive protection, helping to keep skin healthier and more resilient.
SPF 50 or SPF 30 – what’s the difference?
The number on your SPF shows how long sunscreen protects your skin from the sun. For example, if you use SPF 30, it takes 30 times longer for your skin to burn than if you didn’t use any sunscreen, however reapplying every two hours is still recommended for both.
An SPF of 30 lets about 3 percent of UVB rays reach your skin, while SPF 50 allows about 2 percent. Even though this seems like a small difference, SPF 30 actually lets in 50 percent more UV radiation than SPF 50. SPF 50 is often better for fair or sensitive skin, people spending extended time outdoors, or in high-altitude areas where UV exposure is greater.
Enough is enough:
Not applying enough sunscreen can leave your skin unprotected and applying too much can leave you feeling just a little too greasy. Two milligrams of sunscreen per square centimetre of skin is the first step towards the ride direction, you can use a general rule of thumb of applying two fingers worth (use your index and pointer fingers), or half a teaspoon, for your face AND neck. For the body, you can work on approximately the volume of a regular shot glass.
Reapplying sunscreen is very important when you're in direct sunlight. Make sure to apply it every two hours. If you're swimming or sweating, reapply it more often.
Protecting your skin goes beyond simply applying sunscreen. By being aware of various heat sources and their effects (such as a hairdryer or sitting near a window), you can take proactive steps to keep your skin healthy and vibrant. Incorporating these tips into your daily routine will not only give your skin the care it deserves but also help keep it looking better for longer.
SPF is not enough.