Are you like me, questioning why it's good to use SPF every day, all year round? Especially when we live in a country that sometimes seems to have lost its connection to the sun. Then you should keep reading. Everyone else should also continue reading because what’s coming is worth repeating.
SPF is the only thing that can protect us from skin cancer and premature aging. It’s the only thing that has been proven to protect the skin from aging too soon. It's almost as if SPF is the fountain of youth in modern times.
Why is it good?
SPF, or sunblock as it’s called in Swedish, protects against the sun’s UVA and/or UVB rays.
UVA rays can penetrate the skin's various layers and can therefore be a cause of skin cancer.
UVB rays are the culprits when it comes to getting sunburned. They are also linked to skin cancer but do not penetrate the skin in the same way as UVA.
What type of SPF should you use?
The simple answer is actually any SPF, because using some is better than none. However, there is a difference between SPFs. You should choose those labeled “Broad Spectrum SPF.” This means they protect against both UVA and UVB rays. So, you get double protection, two for one.
What SPF factor should you use?
This depends on how long you plan to be in the sun and how strong the sun is. The sun protection factor indicates how much of the UV rays are filtered out and gives an idea of how long you can be in the sun before you get burned. Note that I said "gives an idea." To fully rely on SPF 50 protecting you for an entire day in the sun is crazy and dangerous.
If it’s winter and you’re only out in the sun a little, going to and from work/school or to the store, then a lower SPF is sufficient. If it’s summer, the sun is blazing, and you want to get a bit of color, I recommend a high SPF between 30 and 50.
What should you consider?
The most important thing to remember is to apply enough cream—about a teaspoon for the face—and to reapply at least every two hours with the same amount of cream if you continue to be in the sun.
Another important thing to keep in mind is to always use a high SPF regardless of the season if you are using active ingredients in your daily skincare, such as retinol, acids, or other products that can make your skin more sensitive. Because what’s the point of spending all your money on magical products that are supposed to work wonders for your skin if you don’t protect it from the sun, which is the biggest culprit of all? Talk about throwing money down the drain and aging prematurely.
The third thing to think about is that EVERYONE needs SPF, whether you have a dark or light skin tone. Skin cancer and premature aging are, truly, colorblind. No one is exempt, which is why EVERYONE should use SPF.
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