Summer is coming, and with it, the days at the beach, in the pool, and enjoying the best company on these hot dates when many take the opportunity to sunbathe and tan. We know how important it is to protect ourselves from UVA and UVB rays, as well as infrared radiation (IR) and visible light (HEV), but do we know how to choose a sunscreen that suits our needs?
1. Tips for choosing a sunscreen
- These are the main factors that you should take into account when choosing a sun cream:
- Choose a very high sun protection
- The SPF indicates the protection time against UVB radiation before the skin turns red.
- The facial skin is thinner and is more exposed to solar radiation. Therefore, we must make sure to choose the maximum protection.
- Low protection: SPF 6-14
- Medium protection: SPF 15-29
- High protection: SPF 30-49
- Very high protection: SPF 50+
2. Look for the UVA protection icon
The UVA icon within the circle indicates protection against UVA radiation, the main cause of premature aging. This icon must be present to comply with European regulations.
In addition, the UVA index must be at least >1/3 of the UVB index.
3. Opt for broad-spectrum sunscreens
Although the European regulation does not require protection against infrared radiation ( IR ) and visible light ( HEV ), we recommend choosing a broad-spectrum sunscreen.
In addition to UVB and UVA rays, it will also protect you against IR and HEV radiation, which represent 90% of the solar spectrum and have visible causes on the skin.
4. Look for the indication of water resistance
Resistance to water and sweat is especially important if you go to the beach or play sports outdoors.
It means that the protector stays on the skin longer when it is wet. If you bathe in the pool or the sea, your skin will be protected during and after immersion.
If you consider that this aspect is important and you are looking for a good waterproof sunscreen.
5. Choose the most suitable protector for your skin type
Choosing a specific texture and active ingredients according to your skin type is very important to achieve correct protection. In addition, you will feel more comfortable if it adapts to the needs of your skin.
An inadequate sunscreen can encourage insufficient application due to loss of adherence.
6. Use dermatologically tested products
The last thing to take into account when choosing a sunscreen for the face is that the product has been tested on patients or volunteers under the supervision of a dermatologist, to assess its efficacy or skin tolerance.
In the case of eye contour products, make sure they are ophthalmologically tested.
A product with photo protectors protects us against the harmful effects produced by UVB and UVA radiation, infrared radiation ( IR ), and visible light ( HEV ). It has formulas that adapt to the needs of each skin type, as well as anti-aging active ingredients.
