What To Know About Sunscreen

In the summer I like a tan as much as the next person, but what I don’t like is getting sunburned…I know we have ALL BEEN THERE, OUCH! Besides the terrible pain and itching a sunburn causes it also has long term effects! This is why it is so important to protect the skin EVERY DAY. Even on cloudy days?! Yes, even on cloudy days, as the rays can still filter through them as well! I decided to do some research and write a short blog post to highlight what important things to know about sunscreen. Read on, if you want to feel more confident the next time you are choosing a sunscreen!!

The Different Types Of Ultra Violet Rays

There are two types of Ultra Violet rays (UV) you want to protect the skin from. They both are harmful to the skin in different ways. UVA rays causes premature ageing and wrinkles. UVB rays burn the superficial layers of your skin and play a key role in skin cancer. When choosing a sunscreen, it’s important to get one with broad-spectrum, which indicates it will protect you from both.

The Meaning Of SPF

Most people like myself thought that “SPF” meant the amount of time it protected you from the sun. This is a big misconception. It doesn’t matter what SPF (sun protecting factor) you choose. You will notice that directions for a bottle of sunscreen with SPF 30 are the same as SPF 50. Both will state to apply ever 2 hours.
So what is the difference you ask? Here it is, within those two hours, the SPF 50 will block more rays than the SPF 30. But both will be as ineffective after the same amount of time from when they were first applied. For a deeper understanding of SPF, read ” The Trouble With SPF” article by EGW.

How Much Sunscreen To Apply

This is super important to know because the majority of people do not apply enough. It’s a quarter size amount to the face ( or 2 fingers worth, see photo above) and a shot glass amount to the body. Don’t forget to add some behind your ears, neck and toes. Lips are also a body part that is easy to forget. A great way to remember is to buy a lip balm with SPF already in it.

Ingredients In Sunscreen

There are two types of formulations in sunscreens, Chemical and Physical. Chemical sunscreens such as Homosalate and Octinoxate work by absorbing the sun’s rays. For the most part, chemical sunscreens tend to have a better texture and less likely to leave a white cast. Yet, for some people chemical sunscreens can cause irritation on the skin. The other option is Physical or Mineral sunscreens such as Zinc and Titanium Dioxide. They sit on top of the skin and create a physical barrier that deflect and block the rays. Mineral sunscreens, tend to be better for people with sensitive skin. One more thing to note is that no sunscreen is waterproof! A sunscreen can only claim to be water-resistant or sweat resistant, If it has undergone a 40-80 minute test in the lab. If it’s not stated on the bottle, it can easily be washed off.

I covered a lot of information, thank you for reading this far! Below are sunscreens I have used and recommend! If you are looking for more options and some that work best under makeup, Check out my latest post on the “8 Best Sunscreens To Wear Under Makeup.”

SuperGoop Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 

Countersun Mineral Sunscreen Mist SPF 30

La Roche-Posay Anthelios 60 Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 60

SunBum Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50

Neutrogena Revitalizing and Moisturizing Tinted Lip Balm with Sun Protective Broad Spectrum SPF 20 Sunscreen