Understanding SPF: The Key to Sun Protection
Demystifying SPF: Why Sun Protection is Crucial for Your Skin
You've probably heard it a million times: "Wear sunscreen!" But do you understand why? Or what SPF even means? Welcome to our blog at The Aesthetics Lounge and Spa in Raleigh, where we're enthusiastic about sharing the ins and outs of skincare with you so that you can make informed decisions about your health and beauty regimen.
Sun Protection Factor, or SPF, indicates how long it would take for the sun's UV radiation to redden your skin when using the product exactly as directed versus the amount of time without any sunscreen. So ideally, with SPF 30 it would take you 30 times longer to burn than if you weren’t wearing sunscreen.
An SPF 30 allows only about 3% of UVB rays to reach your skin while an SPF of 50 permits only about 2% of those rays. Though the difference may seem marginal, if you're spending a day under the sun, it could mean the difference between going home with a mild burn or looking like a lobster
In reality, an SPF 30 blocks around 97% of harmful UVB rays from the skin. However, to achieve the same high protection level, an SPF 50 blocks approximately 98% of UVB rays from the skin. To put it simply, an SPF 50 blocks one additional percent of the UVB rays compared to SPF 30.
SPF measures protection from UVB rays, but don't forget about UVA - the rays that penetrate further into the skin, leading to skin damage and aging. To ensure you're safeguarding against both types, seek out products labeled as 'broad-spectrum'.
"But why is SPF so important?"
…. you might ask. And we’re glad you did! Well, aside from painful sunburns, UV radiation can cause premature aging, eye damage, and even skin cancer. And it's not just the sunny days you have to worry about - UV radiation can still reach your skin on cloudy days and even through windows.
Now, let's tackle some of the most frequently asked questions about SPF.
The answer is at least every 2 hours, more often if you’re sweating or swimming.
Dermatologists recommend using at least an SPF 30.
Not quite! Physical sunscreens create a barrier on the skin that reflects or scatters UV light. Chemical sunscreens absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat.
As your trusted skincare guide in Raleigh, we can't stress enough the importance of finding a broad-spectrum sunscreen that you love. After all, the best sunscreen is the one you'll actually apply - not the one that sits sadly on your bathroom shelf! 😉
At The Aesthetics Lounge and Spa Raleigh, we not only offer expert advice but also a range of Neocutis skincare products, that provide broad-spectrum protection. We know that skincare is not a one-size-fits-all, and we're committed to helping you find the best products for your unique needs.
So why not swing by and start your journey towards healthier, protected skin? Because here at The Aesthetics Lounge and Spa Raleigh, your skin is our top priority.
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