How does Sun Protection Factor (SPF) work?
We all know how important it is to wear clothes and accessories with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) before summer vacation, but we are not ashamed to admit that we are clueless about what SPF actually does and how specifically it helps. So, we did some research and will share with you everything we learned about SPF in today’s blog post.
Before we get into the details, I want to explain a little more about the difference between UVB and UVA. Both types of radiation damage the skin in their own way. The easiest way to remember this is: UVB = Burning. It affects the surface of the skin, causing the burning sensation that comes with overexposure to the sun. UVA = Aging, which generally means that these rays penetrate deep into the skin and reach the underlying layers, causing skin aging, such as the breakdown of collagen and elastin. UVA radiation is constant and requires protection year-round because it can penetrate clouds, glass, and water. Therefore, many skin experts recommend using sunscreen every day, even on cloudy, overcast days, to ensure that the skin is adequately protected.
What is Sun Protection Factor SPF?
In simple terms, SPF is a product that blocks the sun’s rays from damaging or burning your skin. Generally speaking, the higher the factor, the more effective it is at blocking all UV radiation. Noting down the SPF number will help you understand how long you can safely stay in direct sunlight before your skin starts to burn.
To better understand how this factor protects your skin, think about how long it takes for your skin to turn pink when exposed to direct sunlight. If your skin turns pink quickly, choosing the highest factor will protect you from burning your skin. If you use SPF 30, you can usually get about 5 hours of sun protection. It is calculated by multiplying the SPF value by the time it would take you to get a sunburn without protection.
Here’s how to know how long SPF will be effective for you:
Consider your skin type and risk of sunburn
Apply correctly and generously, about one tablespoon per limb, more for larger areas
Make a note of when you apply SPF so you’re ready for reapplication
Reapply if standing in water or sweating
Avoid direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day
If you stay vigilant when in the sun, you’ll find your skin is protected and shows no signs of burning.
When protecting your face with SPF, it’s recommended to use products specifically formulated for the face to avoid issues with clogged pores, which sometimes lead to acne. Make sure to cleanse your skin thoroughly and follow an intensive, aggressive skin care routine to keep your skin healthy, radiant, and spot-free.
How is the SPF value of a sunscreen product determined?
SPF is a measure of the effects of UV radiation and how long it takes for your skin to suffer sun damage. First introduced in 1974, while the results cannot be considered water-resistant, it allows SPF users to track their skin’s exposure to the sun, with UVB being the main radiation that protects the skin from sunburn.
UVA rays are a little harder to avoid because the effects of these rays are invisible, and you can’t see the effects of sun exposure very quickly. Therefore, broad-spectrum sunscreens with SPF were developed to protect the skin from both UVB and UVA radiation. You can also check the ingredient list on the packaging to see if the formula contains substances such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as this will help you better protect your skin.
For long-term benefits, it is recommended to follow a safe sun protection regimen that includes gradual exposure to the sun, generous application of SPF sunscreen on the skin, frequent reapplication, and adequate hydration.
When should I reapply SPF sunscreen?
The effectiveness of SPF decreases when exposed to direct sunlight. This is why reapplying sunscreen is an important step in your skin care routine.
If you don’t want to spend too much time in the sun while commuting, adding SPF to your morning skincare routine will provide you with enough protection during your commute.
If you expect to be outdoors for a long time, reapply SPF after 2 hours to ensure optimal sun protection. Many skin care products (especially moisturizers) have SPF in them, and using these products is a good start to sun protection. However, there is a common skin myth that says you will get more SPF if you use several different SPF products. Unfortunately, this is not true, and it is the most important factor over any other factor you may apply to your skin. For example, if you use a factor of 15 in your moisturizer formula before applying SPF 30 every day, the 30 will provide skin protection.
What is the best sunscreen with an SPF value?
Any sunscreen with an SPF value is better than none! The formulations and ingredients of everyday SPF products have changed a lot since the 1970s, so I am sure there is a product that is right for you. From built-in SPF to moisturizers, mineral solutions, sprays, and lightweight day creams, no matter your skin type, you can find a product that will protect your skin from UV rays and damage without causing other skin problems (such as acne).
DQH Can I use salicylic acid first and then vitamin C?
It’s easy to create a skincare routine, but knowing how to use it is another thing entirely. In most cases, if you’re not getting the desired skin results, it could be due to the layering of conflicting ingredients. So, is it possible that salicylic acid and vitamin C are such ingredients? Or are these active ingredients the duo that’s been missing from your skincare routine? If you want answers, stick around because today we are going to explain the benefits of salicylic acid and vitamin C and how they can be used in your daily life.
What are the benefits of salicylic acid for skin?
Salicylic acid is one of the most commonly used beta hydroxy acids and is favored by many people with oily, acne-prone skin. This acid is derived from willow bark, and unlike its water-soluble relatives (called alpha-hydroxy acids), salicylic acid is oil-soluble, which means it can penetrate deeper into the lower layers of the skin. Once it reaches the lower layers, it can help unclog pores of excess sebum, dirt, bacteria, debris, and impurities. This results in clearer skin tones and greater definition.
Not only does salicylic acid benefit the underlying layers, but the outer surface of the skin benefits as well. When applied to the skin, salicylic acid removes the buildup of dead skin cells. This is accomplished by breaking the bonds that hold dead cells to the surface. Over time, this can cause the complexion to look dull and prone to acne, blackheads, and other blemishes.
If you’d like to learn more about salicylic acid and how it can improve your skin, check out this dedicated blog post from a beauty insider.
What are the benefits of vitamin C for skin?
Vitamin C is considered one of the most powerful antioxidants, which means it is very effective at fighting free radicals and preventing them from causing further skin damage. Examples of free radicals include pollution, central heating, UV rays and harsh climate. They attack proteins, fats and cell membranes as soon as they come into contact with the skin, causing signs of premature aging such as fine lines and wrinkles as well as hyperpigmentation, flaky patches of skin and loss of elasticity.
Many people usually prefer to use vitamin C in their morning routine as this ingredient gives the complexion a radiant glow. You’ll also find that vitamin C can target areas of hyperpigmentation, plumping the skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
The thing about vitamin C is that there are a lot of outdated studies going back to the 1950s that describe vitamin C as an unstable skin component. Thanks to improvements in modern technology, this is no longer the case as all products now contain a stable form of vitamin C.
Visit The Beauty Insider to learn more about vitamin C. So please check out our blog post.
Can I use salicylic acid first and then vitamin C?
Yes, you absolutely can. In fact, it’s thought that using salicylic acid before using vitamin C ensures it penetrates faster and works faster.
This is an efficient way to utilize two power sources, and the reason has to do with pH. For example, the skin’s natural pH is about 4.7, making it slightly acidic. Salicylic acid and vitamin C are also both acidic, and you’ll find that vitamin C is absorbed quickly into the skin. Therefore, using salicylic acid beforehand can increase the acidity of the skin and allow vitamin C to penetrate into the skin faster.
While this is considered an effective way to combine two powerful ingredients, you need to be aware of your skin type and how it reacts to certain active ingredients. Even people with perfect, normal skin can experience skin sensitivity and irritation. Therefore, always consult a doctor or dermatologist before using any new products on your skin.
It’s also important to follow skin application rules. In this case, you need to use the product correctly to ensure you get the best results for your skin. If you’re not sure what I mean, the basic rule for skin is to start with the thinnest consistency and work your way up to the thickest consistency. This prevents a barrier from forming on the surface, preventing other active ingredients from penetrating the skin.
Can I use salicylic acid at night and vitamin C in the morning?
Yes, absolutely, this is considered the most effective way to get returns without any adverse side effects. This is because there is enough time between applications to ensure that the skin’s pH levels return to balance.
You’ll also find that Vitamin C is rich in antioxidants and is perfect for use in the morning to ensure your skin is protected and looking its healthiest. Due to the small size of salicylic acid molecules, it is an acid that is able to reach the deepest parts of the skin. While this is effective at keeping skin clear, it also increases the risk of irritation and photosensitivity. Therefore, many people prefer to use powerful BHAs in their evening routine without exposure to UV rays, pollution, or harsh weather.
Warning: If you avoid using sunscreen every day, none of these ingredients will do what your skin needs. The combination of chemical peels and powerful ingredients increases the risk of further damage to the skin’s surface. Use SPF 50 every day to keep your skin protected and your lipid barrier healthy, even on cloudy days, keeping your skin in top condition.