Monday, June 24, 2013

Sunscreens. Understanding Sun Protection.

Are you travelling to sunny areas, or has the weather turned warmer for you? 

Cute Sun by Silverbtf

I know summer is here for some of you, so let us understand more about sun protection.  Also, a question that has always been boggling my mind: "Does higher SPF sunscreens work better?". If you have also thought or wondered about this matter, you're in for some myth busting and knowledge enhancement journey together with me!


So what is SPF?
It stands for "Sun Protection Factor", which is simply a laboratory measurement to measure the ability of a product to prevent sunburn compared to unprotected skin in similar conditions. Since sunburn is caused by UV-B radiation, SPF is a measure of protection against UV-B.

Image from New York Times: http://www.nytimes.com/2007/08/07/health/07real.html
Does higher SPF = better protection?
According to an article by Steven Q. Wang, MD, higher SPF does not equate to higher protection against the sun. 

Commonly Missed Spots
I came across this article by Jason Fitzpatrick which mentioned about commonly missed spots when we are slapping sunscreens on our body - and that is our feet! Especially those who love going to the beach to play with the sand.
Original Source
A common reason why sunscreens are not applied at the feet is because they dislike the feeling of sand stuck to their feet. But do not forget that our feet is equally at the danger of getting skin cancer or sunburn. 

Source: Hitting the Crossbar Photoblog

Acne & Sun
Sun exposure aggravates acne, thus you have to ensure you put on your sunblock and avoid sun exposure to keep acne at bay! The sun aggravates acne by causing breakouts, so make sure you choose a good zinc/ titanium based sunscreen. Applying a layer of mineral makeup daily may also help to avoid the sun's damaging rays.

Which Sunscreen?
Now you know the importance of sun protection? I will recommend the following sunscreens for all of you with different kinds of skins.. However bearing that the product may work differently for each individual~ with information from Dr. Jessica Wu, Hollywood Dermatologist.
For Oily or acne-prone skin
Look for oil-free sunscreen fluid that dries quickly and invisibly. And these can help your skin appear less oily and perhaps, even enhance the longevity of your makeup~
1. Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protection Cream SPF55 PA+++
2. Roche-Posay's Anthelios Mineral Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid SPF 50
3. Kiehl's Super Fluid UV Defense SPF 50+

Normal to dry skin
Lotions or creams which are richer in texture, with hydrating ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid are your to-get-sunscreens!
1. Shiseido's Extra Smooth Sun Protection Cream SPF 38
2. Kiss My Face - Face Factor SPF 30

Sensitive skin
Sunscreens with mineral ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are less likely to irritate your skin, unlike chemical ingredients.
1. Juice Beauty SPF 30 Mineral Moisturiser - contain's titanium dioxide
2. Dr Jessica Wu Cosmeceuticals Anti-Aging Sun Care SPF 32 - microfine sheer zinc oxide
3. Vanicream Sunscreen Sensitive Skin SPF 30 - with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide

Outdoor & Water Activities
Search for a water-resistant or water-proof formula
1. Jack Black Oil Free Sun Guard Very Water Resistant Sunscreen SPF50
2. MD SolarSciences Mineral Tinted Creme SP30
3. Sunplay SPF130 PA++
4. Fruit of the Earth Block Up SPF 50

Baby and Toddler Safe
1. BABY Blanket Sunblock Lotion for Babies SPF 50 

Make sure you apply your invisible umbrella before you head out and have a fun time in the sun! <3

Sources:

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