Everyone knows that we should all be using sun protection. SPF is formulated into our moisturizers, our make-up and then we are encouraged to add more in the form of sunscreen. But there are still so many questions and misconceptions it is difficult to know what we are doing right, and what we are (most likely) doing wrong.
Here are some answers to a few of the most common sun protection questions I get.
Q: What is SPF?
A: The initials SPF stand for Sun Protection Factor. It is a measure of the protection that a product offers against the UVB rays the sun gives off. The sun also produces damaging UVA rays but at this time there is no standardised system to regulate a product’s protection against UVA rays. UVB rays have more immediate damaging potential (I remember it as “B triggers Burning”), but the long term damage from UVA rays hugely contributes to aging skin and skin cancer.
Q: Then how can I protect myself from UVA rays?
A: Look for “broad spectrum” sunscreens. Although there is no standard for measurement, there are ingredients that do offer UVA protection such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
Q: So, what exactly does the number after the SPF mean?
A: The higher the number SPF, the longer you can stay out in the sun without getting burned. It breaks down like this. SPF 15 allows you to stay out in the sun 15x longer before you burn. SPF 30 means 30x longer. If you typically begin to burn after 10 min, a SPF 15 would allow you to be in the sun for 15 times longer before burning, or about 2.5 hours.
Q: How much sunscreen is enough?
A: An average sized person should use 1.5 oz of sunscreen to cover their whole body. This is the amount that would fill a shot glass. And don’t forget, even waterproof sunscreen wears off. You should be reapplying every 2-3 hours if you are swimming or sweating.
Q: Does layering my sunscreen increase my protection?
A: More protection can’t hurt, but it is not a direct correlation. For example wearing a moisturizer with an SPF of 15 and layering a sunscreen of SPF 30 over it does not offer the same protection as a product with SPF 45.
Q: What can I do after my skin has burned?
A: Sadly, once your skin has burned there is no way to take back the damage that will age your skin, or reverse the increased risk of skin cancer. Skin can be soothed but the long term damage has been done.
