SPF Dos and Don'ts: Protecting Your Skin from the Sun

Sunscreen is essential to any skincare routine, helping protect your skin from harmful UV rays and reduce the risk of sun damage. However, using sunscreen effectively involves more than just slathering it on. In this blog post, we will explore the dos and don'ts of SPF (Sun Protection Factor) to ensure you maximize its benefits and keep your skin safe from the sun's harmful effects.

Dos:

Do choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen: Look for a sunscreen labeled "broad-spectrum," as it protects against UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays can prematurely age the skin, while UVB rays cause sunburns. Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen provides comprehensive protection. Do use sunscreen with a high SPF: Select a sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. Higher SPF values offer increased protection against UVB rays. However, it's important to remember that no sunscreen provides 100% protection, so reapplication is still necessary.

Do apply sunscreen generously: Ensure you apply enough sunscreen to cover all exposed areas of your skin. Most experts recommend using about one ounce (30ml), or enough to fill a shot glass, to cover your entire body. Remember often-neglected areas such as the ears, back of the neck, and tops of the feet.

Do apply sunscreen 15-30 minutes before sun exposure: Sunscreen needs time to bind to the skin and provide adequate protection. Apply it at least 15-30 minutes before stepping outside to allow it to absorb properly.

Do reapply sunscreen regularly: Sunscreen wears off over time, especially if swimming, sweating, or towel-drying. Reapply sunscreen every two hours or more frequently if you are engaged in water activities or sweating heavily.

Do wear sunscreen every day, even on cloudy days: UV rays can penetrate clouds, so it's essential to wear sunscreen daily, regardless of the weather. UV damage can occur even on overcast days, so make sunscreen a part of your everyday routine.

Don'ts:

Don't rely solely on sunscreen for sun protection: While sunscreen is crucial, it should not be your only line of defense. Wear protective clothing, such as wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and long-sleeved shirts, and seek shade during peak sun hours (usually between 10 am and 4 pm).

Don’t forget to check sunscreen expiration dates: Sunscreen loses its effectiveness over time. Check the expiration date on the bottle and discard any expired products. If there is no expiration date, replace sunscreen over three years old.

Don't neglect your lips and eyes: Lips and the delicate skin around your eyes are prone to sun damage. Use a lip balm with SPF and wear sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection to shield your eyes from harmful rays.

Don't solely rely on high SPF for prolonged sun exposure: While higher SPF values offer more protection, they do not provide an excuse to spend excessive time in the sun. Regardless of the SPF level, limiting your time in direct sunlight is essential, especially during peak hours.

Taking care of your skin using sunscreen is crucial for protecting it from the harmful effects of the sun's rays. By following these dos and don'ts of SPF, you can ensure you're using sunscreen effectively and maximizing its benefits.

 

Check out some of our favorite SPF products here at EMstore right now:

1. For all skin - PCA Weightless Protection Broad Spectrum SPF 45
2. For dry skin - IMAGE Prevention + Daily Hydrating Moisturizer
3. For oily skin - Eminence Lilikoi Daily Defense Moisturizer SPF 40
4. For lips - Eminence Rosehip & Lemongrass Lip Balm SPF 15
5. For the body - PCA Active Protection Body SPF 30
6. After sun care - Phytomer Sun Soother After Sun Milk