Sun-screen always a hot topic

Hello, sunshine lovers, Thérèse here. We all know wearing sunscreen reduces the risk of skin cancers and is your best ally against the signs of ageing, but it can be confusing choosing the right one for you and your family. So, grab your favourite sun hat, and let’s dive deep into the SPF, UVA and UVB of it all.

UVA and UVB

Both UVA and UVB rays can harm your skin.
UVB rays are the main culprit behind sunburn, while UVA rays penetrate deeply, causing premature ageing and some skin cancers. Together, they’re a duo we need to avoid.

A simple way to remember is:

UVA = Ageing
UVB = Burning

SPF explained

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. It measures how well a sunscreen protects against UVB rays – those are the ones that cause sunburn and contribute to skin cancer.

For most people, we recommend an SPF of at least 30. Higher SPF numbers mean more protection, but don’t let those numbers fool you. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks about 98%. Remember no sunscreen can block 100% of UV rays.

The star rating system

SPF refers to UVB protection only. In addition to the SPF you need to check the star rating on your sunscreen.
This star rating tells you how good the sunscreen is at protecting against UVA rays. Ideally look for 5 stars. 3 or less than choose another product.

Broad-spectrum protection

Always opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen. The best one is the one that you will use and re-apply. I suggest asap SPF50+ moisturising defence with anti-oxidants and zinc. It protects against both UVA and UVB rays and also provides extra antioxidant protection to help free radical damage. For the best protection wear it every day of the year – sunscreen is necessary even on cloudy days, as up to 80% of UVA rays can pass through clouds and glass. (Do you wear sunscreen when you're driving? or in a airplane? Many pilots and air stewards suffer with pigmentation brought on by UV rays.)
There is also a great study of a truck driver from the United States who never wore sunscreen. One side of his face has hardened, very deeply lined and wrinkled, no elasticity and pigmented in comparison to the other side of this face that wasn't in the window. If you get a chance, you should look it up, its very interesting.

Chemical vs. Physical sunscreen

Did you know sunscreens come in two main types: chemical and physical.

Chemical sunscreens soak up the sun’s rays like a sponge, while physical (or mineral) ones act like a mirror, reflecting UV rays away from your skin.

Whether you choose physical or mineral I would suggest that your Sunscreen contains zinc. Zinc helps to block and reflect harmful UV rays. Many children or those with sensitive skin prefer mineral-based sunscreens, with ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as they are often less irritating.

Choosing the right sunscreen

There’s a sunscreen for every skin type. For oily skin, look for “non-comedogenic” on the label to prevent clogged pores. Dry skin? Look for hydrating properties which help moisturise as it protects.

Tinted sunscreens are great multi-taskers, offering protection while evening out your skin tone. Asap CC Correcting Cream SPF 15 is a lovely lightly tinted mineral SPF. It can be mixed with your SPF 50+ Moisturising Defence to give it a hint of colour.

“Planning a swim or a sweat? Water-resistant sunscreens are your best bet. Apply them 20 minutes before you are exposed to the sun and water. But remember, “water-resistant” doesn’t mean “waterproof.” Reapply every two hours, and immediately after a dip or an exercise session.” I like to use long sleeved swimming togs on the kids for added protection. Most children hate getting cream applied especially over and over. With the long sleeved swimming togs (and you can get shorts and full legs too) you only have to apply sunscreen to the exposed areas. Another thing I add is a sun hat with a piece of material at the back to protect their necks and ears.

Application tips for maximum protection

Apply a generous amount of sunscreen to all exposed skin 20 - 30 minutes before going outdoors – about a shot glass full for the body or two full finger length amounts for the face, neck and decollete.

And remember to reapply every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating – even if you’re using a high-SPF or water-resistant product. A spray [or powder compact with SPF] sunscreen is brilliant for topping up when you’re out and about.

Remember your ears, tops of feet, back of the neck and your scalp need sunscreen love too. “And don’t forget the lips – a lip balm with SPF is a must. "asap hydrating lip balm +SPF 15 is my go-to lip essential.” This lip balm deeply hydrates contains antioxidants to soothe and protect and Alpine Rose to help reduce cold sore occurrence.

And a word of caution. Even if your foundation contains an SPF don’t rely on it for protection as you’re unlikely to apply it thickly enough. Apply your usual sunscreen, then your foundation. Depending on how much coverage you want, a tinted SPF could replace your foundation altogether.

Let’s chat suncare

Feeling overwhelmed by choices or not sure where to start? Come in and chat with me at Illuminated Skin Aesthetics Clinic, Ardee.

We’re here to help you select the right sun protection for you and your family.

Stay sun-safe and fabulous and love your skin naked!… ☀️

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Below you will find the products mentioned in the blog above. They are available in the Illuminated Skin clinic or online in our store www.illuminatedskin.ie

SPF 50+ Moisturising Defence

CC Correcting Cream SPF 15

Hydrating lip balm SPF 15+