What should we know about sun protection and how to apply the product?

Every day our skin faces a number of environmental challenges and our hectic lifestyle. Pollution, stress, free radicals and other aggressors attack its ability to regenerate and cause a number of unpleasant consequences, such as irritations, loss of elasticity and premature aging.

One of the most powerful skin-damaging factors is ultraviolet solar radiation. That's why it's no surprise that influencers are increasingly talking about the importance of sun protection every day - and not just in the summer, but throughout the year. But did you know that in order to get the most out of your products, not only the composition of the cosmetics is important, but also whether you apply it correctly?

Today we're going to share with you some extremely important things you should know about UV protection products. We will explain in detail how, when and how much. We will also look at some interesting myths, answering the question of whether they are true.

What you need to know about sun protection?

As you may know, ultraviolet radiation is part of the light we receive from the sun. There are 3 types of ultraviolet rays: UVA, UVB and UVC. They differ according to their wavelength and have different effects on human skin. UVC rays have an antimicrobial effect and have gained particular prominence since 2020. However, this type of solar radiation is filtered out by the atmosphere and does not reach us. UVB is the part of the ultraviolet spectrum that causes skin burns. Fortunately, clouds and glass can block UVB radiation to some extent.

UVA rays make up 95% of the ultraviolet radiation reaching the earth's surface. Unlike the previous type of rays, UVA passes through both clouds and glass. This type of radiation penetrates deep into the dermis, accelerates the appearance of wrinkles and age spots, and causes premature aging of the skin. The most important thing to know is that it is one of the main risk factors for skin cancer. It is for this reason that it is important to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day - whether it is summer or winter, sunny or cloudy.

How do UV filters "work"?

Ultraviolet filters are the active substances that protect our skin from UV radiation.

Types of filters

There are 2 main types. The first type is most often called "chemical filters", but this is not really a very accurate name. The more correct name is "organic" filters. They absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat, which is then released by the skin. Some better known UV filters in this category include octocrylene, oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, and octinoxate.

The second type are inorganic compounds and are most often called "physical" or "mineral" filters. Various types of mineral filters have been used over the years, but zinc oxide and titanium dioxide remain the most popular today. Inorganic filters have long been thought to protect the skin by reflecting UV rays. However, a 2015 study demonstrated that only about 5% of radiation is actually reflected, and the main protection, just like with chemical filters, is due to absorption.

What is the most important thing you need to know? In both types of filters, exposure to ultraviolet radiation gradually breaks down the active substances. This is exactly why you need to reapply sunscreen periodically throughout the day.

What is SPF?

The sun protection factor, or SPF, is a unit of measure that determines a sunscreen's ability to protect against UVB rays. More precisely, the number indicates how many times longer it would take the skin to burn. For example, SPF 30 means that it takes 30 times longer for the skin to burn than without protection. It's important to know that no sunscreen blocks 100% of UV rays, but a properly applied SPF 50 product blocks about 98% of radiation.

Is there a right way to apply sunscreen?

The answer is definitely "Yes"! In fact, the SPF factor largely depends on whether you have applied enough product to the skin. Let's take a look at the 4 steps you need to take to enjoy excellent sun protection every day:

How much?

What exactly does "sufficient amount" mean? For most adults, this is one teaspoon for the face and neck, and about two tablespoons for each area of the body.

Where?

The second important rule is that you must cover all areas of the skin that are exposed to the sun's rays. This includes your ears, the back of your neck, and the parts of your feet that aren't covered by clothing or shoes.

When?

Apply the sunscreen 15-30 minutes before sun exposure. This gives the product a chance to absorb. As already mentioned, UV filters protect mostly by absorption, but as a result of the reaction with light, they degrade. That's why you should reapply the product every two hours, or even more often if you swim or sweat.

Myths about sun protection: true or not?

Myth: You don't need sunscreen on a cloudy day.

Reality: Up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate through clouds. Even on cloudy days, it's important to use sunscreen to protect your skin.

Myth: Sunscreen is only necessary in the summer.

Reality: The sun emits ultraviolet rays all year round. Snow, sand and water can reflect and amplify this spectrum of light, so sun protection is essential regardless of the season.

Myth: If you have dark skin, you don't need sunscreen.

Reality: While melanin—the pigment that gives skin its dark color—provides some protection, it's not enough. People of any skin color can get skin cancer, and it is sunscreen products that play a key role in the prevention of this disease.

Myth: Using sunscreen will prevent your body from producing vitamin D.

Reality: Indeed, in laboratory settings, using high SPF sunscreens reduces vitamin D production. However, in real-world settings, this has little effect, and studies show that regular use of SPF does not increase the risk of vitamin D deficiency.

Myth: Once you apply it, you're protected all day.

Reality: Sunscreen should be reapplied at least every two hours, and more often if you swim or sweat.

You already know that using sunscreen is not just a summer ritual that protects you from burning. It's an important part of daily skin care that keeps your skin looking youthful and is key in melanoma prevention.

Armed with in-depth knowledge of the correct application of Sun Like Sunscreen Milks and Lotions, you can enjoy the sun responsibly while keeping your skin healthy and young