SPF Protection
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Is Your SPF Really Protecting You?
One of my clients came to me with concerns for the fine lines beginning to show around her eyes and some faint sun spots. In speaking with her, it was apparent that she was always concerned and proactive about her skin care.
When I asked if she was using sun screen on a daily basis, she assured me she was diligent in her application of her SPF(Sun Protection Factor) 15. “After all, it’s in my moisturizer and my makeup, so I am protected, right?”
Not necessarily.
Unfortunately not all types of sunscreen are created equal.
What do I mean by that?
For starters most people are not even aware that an SPF number only indicates the level of protection from UVB radiation (or the burning rays).
UVA radiation (or the aging rays and the ones that cause brown spots) on the other hand, are not factored into an SPF number at all…it’s a completely different rating system! So that SPF in your moisturizer is simply not enough.
And what about your makeup?
Well, makeup is not meant to penetrate your skin and as you go about your day and it begins fading, so does your protection.
So, how do you ensure getting the most protection for your skin?
Here are some tips and highlights to help you along:
- If you want to truly protect your skin, don’t use less than an SPF 30 (SPF 15 just doesn’t cut it.)
- There is a big difference between an SPF 15 and an SPF 30, but there is not a great difference between an SPF 30 and an SPF 45. SPF 30 is the highest you need to be concerned with.
- Look for Titanium Dioxide or Zinc Oxide in the list of active ingredients. Make sure it has a concentration of 6% or higher. These are organic UVA blocks, but Parsol 1789 will also be extremely effective at blocking 100% of UVA radiation.
- Make sure to use a sunblock in the day for your moisturizer as opposed to a moiturizer with an SPF in it. Otherwise, use a mineral based powder over a moisturizer, such as Colorscience Sunforgettable Perfectly Clear SPF 30 or Peter Thomas Roth Instant Mineral SPF 30 Powder. (Note: If you wear a liquid foundation, you should apply the minerals ON TOP of your foundation. If you only use powder for your makeup, then the minerals should go first.)
- Don’t be fooled if it’s cloudy or rainy outside and think that because there is no sun, then you’re not susceptible to sun damage. UVA radiation (remember, the AGING rays) is simply daylight! Don’t leave home without your sun protection…rain or shine!
- Even if you’re in an office all day, you are still getting radiation. Most people obtain the majority of their sun damage driving, running errands, etc. (and BTW: Flourescent lighting gives off radiation as well!) Wear your sun protection even if you’ll be at work most of the day!
- ALWAYS remember to apply your sunscreen around your eyes (the thinnest and most delicate skin on your face and the fastest to age), as well as your neck and chest. If you have short hair or wear your hair up, include the back of your neck.
- You must reapply your application, especially if you’re sweating or swimming. Celazome Moisturizing Sunscreen SPF 30 or Celazome Moisturizing Sunscreen MAX SPF 29 with Parsol 1789 are waterproof and sweatproof for up to 8 hours! Natura Bisse’s Sun Defense Sport SPF 30+ is also amazing for very active people.
- Be very discerning about using sunblocks from drug stores or department stores. It’s preferable you purchase your SPF from your Esthetician or Dermatologist (the best SPFs are Colorscience Sunforgettable Brush SPF 30 and Celazome Moisturizing Sunscreen MAX SPF 29 with Parsol 1789!)
- All sunscreens will say ‘UVA/UVB’ protection, but the quantity of UVA protection is usually very low, unless they disclose how much. Check for a star rating (*****) of 4 or 5 such as Natura Bisse’s Sun Defense Sport SPF 30+, or look for the words “broad spectrum sunblock”
- This is the best sun block for outdoor activities and sports!
And remember, nowadays with new formulations, they don’t feel greasy.
I know a lot of you are concerned with heavy-feeling sunblocks, so in this case stick with the mineral powder sunblocks or oil-free sunblocks.
The mineral powder sunblocks will also be great for rosacea and sensitive-type/reactive skin.
Just be sure to apply the minerals over a moisturizer so it adheres, and be sure to reapply!
Some good places to begin looking are:
Peter Thomas Roth Ultra Lite Oil-Free Sunblock SPF 30
Colorscience Sunforgettable Perfectly Clear SPF 30
Colorscience Sunforgettable Brush SPF 30 (Just choose your color for a bit of coverage .)
Peter Thomas Roth Instant Mineral SPF 30 Powder
It’s best to spritz over the minerals with a toner to set the application
So now that it’s spring, and with summer around the corner you can enjoy the beautiful weather and have fun in the sun! With help from My Facial Facts you can feel assured that your skin is being protected.
