Before You Hit the Sun: 10 Must-Know SPF Facts. As a sunny day, we must prioritize skin protection to avoid harmful effects from the Sun rays. We must take care of our skin, by using proper SPF as it shields from the sun. Let us understand the 10 most important SPF facts
1. Understand SPF Ratings
SPF or Sun Protection Factor is a measure of how sunscreen protects the skin from UVB rays, the reason for sunburn. When we use SPF 30, it blocks 97% of UVB rays and SPF 50 blocks 98% of the sun rays from entering the skin surface. It’s a misconception that people believe when we use higher SPF, the more the protection but the difference is minimal.
2. Choose Broad-Spectrum Protection
When you pick a sunscreen, look for labeled “broad-spectrum” that indicates the protection is against UVB and UVA rays. UVA rays can penetrate deep into the skin layer and is the reason for skin premature aging and skin cancer. It is advisable to use broad-spectrum protection for double protection.
3. Apply Generously
For effective result of the sunscreen on the skin, it is suggested to take one ounce of the sunscreen for the entire body. Do not leave the ears, back neck and tops of your feet. Reapply for every 2 hours when continuously exposed to sunlight or swimming or sweating.
4. Timing is Key
For effective results it is good to apply sunscreen 15-30 minutes before heading outdoors. This makes ingredients to bind to the skin properly and provides effective shielding.
5. Check Expiration Dates
Sunscreen usual shelf life is 3 years. Sunscreen will not be an effective post expiration date when the sunscreen tube is exposed to very high temperatures. Use it in the prescribed time.
6. Don’t Skip Cloudy Days
UV rays can penetrate the clouds as well. This means our skin still gets sunburnt on cloudy days as well. It is better to apply sunscreen regardless of the weather conditions. It is proved that up to 80% of the UV rays can penetrate through the clouds.
7. Know Your Skin Type
Understand the skin type before opting the Sunscreen with SPF. People with fair skin can have more skin burns and prefer to use high SPF. On the other hand, dark skin tone might have less sun burn but applying SPF cream is mandatory.
8. Don’t Rely Solely on Sunscreen
Apart from using sunscreen, it is good to protect our face and hands with proper clothing, hats, sunglasses and gloves.
9. Consider Water Resistance
When you plan for swimming or seating using water-resistant sunscreens. Remember that any sunscreen will not complete completion. Reapply after swimming or heavy perspiration to shield the skin.
For more information read the blog from ARM Pearl Beauty, 10 Facts You Need To Know Before You Start Using SPF. Also, there is an ARM Pearl Sunscreen with SPF 50 that shields skin from sun damage. Enjoy your time in the sun while making the skin healthy and protected. Happy sunbathing!