Sun exposure is essential and inevitable.

But what about those UV rays that can damage your skin?

The Sun protection factor is a crucial defense against UV rays but with so many different numbers, it can be confusing which one to pick.

In this blog, we will discover what sun protection factor is, its types, and levels to help you choose the perfect shield from sun exposure!

WHAT IS SPF?

SPF(Sun Protection Factor) on sunscreen is a relative measurement of how long the sunscreen will protect you from ultraviolet (UV) rays. UVB rays typically affect the epidermis (outer layer of the skin). Sunburns and some skin malignancies on the surface are caused by them. UVA rays are emitted by the sun and can penetrate the dermis, the bottom layer of the skin. UVA photons are commonly linked to tanning. The darker hue of the skin, on the other hand, indicates that cells in the dermis have been damaged. Although most SPF values pertain to UVB radiation, some sunscreens can also protect against UVA rays.

HOW DOES SPF WORKS?

If you generally get burned from the sun after 10 minutes of sun exposure, multiply that amount by the SPF number of the sunscreen you're planning to use. This will give you an estimate as to how long your sun protection will last.

If you apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 and your skin turns colour after 10 minutes of unprotected sun exposure, you will get five hours of sun protection (10 minutes x 30 = 300 minutes, or 5 hours of protection). SPF 30 will give you 10 hours of protection if your skin changes colour after 20 minutes of sun exposure.

However, this is only the case if you've used a lot of sunscreen. If you don't, the SPF degree of protection specified on the label will not be achieved.

THE RIGHT SPF FOR SUNSCREEN

Examine the SPF number before purchasing sunscreen. This will determine how long you will be protected from the sun.

Dermatologists advise applying sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. SPF 15 blocks approximately 93 percent of UVB rays, whereas SPF 30 protects approximately 97 percent. An SPF of 30 or higher is recommended by the American Dental Association.

If you're daring and enjoy being outside during the day for longer periods, invest in sunscreen with a higher SPF, such as SPF 50!

DO SUNSCREENS WITH HIGH SPF PROTECT BETTER?

The SPF of a sunscreen is a measurement of how well it protects you from sunburn. However, a greater SPF number on sunscreen does not always imply that it is a superior sun protection sunscreen. People sometimes believe that if they use SPF 100 sunscreen, they won't get sunburned or that they can stay out in the sun for far longer than is healthy.

• Under ideal settings (such as those seen in a lab), a sunscreen with a higher SPF and broad-spectrum coverage protects against sunburn, UVA damage, and DNA damage more effectively than comparable products with lower SPF values.
• A sunscreen with a higher SPF will often have a lower UVA/UVB protection ratio. Although high SPF sunscreens may prevent sunburns, they do not protect against UVA-induced free radical production, which can lead to melanoma.
• Higher SPF sunscreens have higher concentrations of the ingredients that filter the sun, as you might expect. 
• No matter how sensitive your skin is, an SPF of 30-50 will be appropriate SPF protection for your face if worn appropriately.

DIFFERENT TYPES OF SPF

There are different types of SPF levels available, each offering a different degree of protection from the sun like:-

SPF 15: Blocks 93% of UVB rays. If you are indoors most of the time with short intervals outside in the sun you can opt for a sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher.

SPF 30: Blocks 97% of UVB rays. It is recommended to use SPF 30 or higher if you are only exposed to the sun on your way to work.

SPF 50: Blocks 98% of UVB rays. If you are usually outside in the sun for more than an hour buy SPF 50 sunscreen or higher.

There is no best SPF sunscreen as each level is suitable for different situations. However, it is recommended by dermatologists generally to use SPF 30 or higher.

TIPS FOR CHOOSING SUNSCREEN

Before you decide to buy sunscreen there are a few factors you should consider such as:-

Consider SPF:

SPF refers to the amount of UVB rays that a sunscreen can block. Sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 will help protect you from the UV rays that you are exposed to regularly. Most dermatologists, however, advocate using sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 because it blocks roughly 97 percent of UVB radiation.

Examine the Active Ingredients:

Examine the sunscreen's active ingredients. Look for products with titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, and Avobenzone in the ingredients list. Make sure to stay away from sunscreens that contain vitamin A (commonly referred to as retinyl palmitate).

Choose a broad-spectrum SPF:

Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 to 50 and PA+++ rating. It aids in the protection of your skin from sunburn and sun damage. It also aids in the prevention of UVA radiation.

Formulation of Sunscreen:

The application format of a sunscreen affects how it feels and appears on a person's skin, and this is referred to as sunscreen formulation. On the market, there are three typical sunscreen formulas. Discover the types of SPF available.

Water resistant face sunscreen:

If you are a swimmer, opt for a water resistant face sunscreen for ample sun protection.

HOW TO APPLY SUNSCREEN

Wash your face: Cleanse your face properly with a facial cleanser.

Apply serums and moisturizer: Apply your desired serum and then follow up with a good moisturizer.

Apply a thick layer of sunscreen: Once the moisturizer is absorbed, apply your sunscreen. For your face, you'll need around 2 finger length of sunscreen to cover the entire face properly.

Cover your upper chest and neck as well: Sunscreen should be applied on the forehead, upper chest, neck cheeks, nose, and chin, but not to other sensitive areas.

Apply makeup over through the sunscreen: If you regularly wear moisturizer, foundation, blush, and other makeup, you can do so now.

CONCLUSION

SPF full form is Sun Protection Factor, it is a measurement of how much UV radiation is needed to burn your protected skin against how much UV rays are needed to burn your unprotected skin. UVB rays are known to cause damage to the epidermis. UVA rays penetrate the epidermis and reach the dermal layers of the skin. Sunscreen with SPF absorbs or reflects these rays, protecting the skin. The two basic types of sunscreens are mineral and chemical. SPF levels might vary. Dermatologists recommend applying sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside. Every two hours, reapply sunscreen.

FAQs

1.Is SPF really Necessary?

It's a prevalent fallacy that people with dark complexions don't need sunscreen. Melanin is richer in dark-skinned people. Melanin protects the skin from UV damage to some extent.

2.When Is It Best To Put On Sunscreen?

Sunscreen should be used daily in the morning routine. If you're not a fan of the sensation of sunscreen, make sure you apply it during peak hours. In India, the sun is at its brightest between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. The sun's beams are at their most powerful during these hours.

3.How Frequently Should You Use Sunscreen?

Dermatologists advise that you apply sunscreen 20 minutes before going outside every time. If you spend a lot of time outside, apply sunscreen 15-30 minutes before you leave the house. When you're constantly exposed to the sun, reapply every 2-3 hours. Use a minimum of SPF 30 and use it every day without fail!