Even though fall is here and people are breaking out boots and sweaters, skin care and sun protection should still be on the top of your list.
Studies have shown that the fall and winter sun rays have an even more damaging effect on skin due to the proximity of the sun. However, it can be overwhelming to know what type of sunscreen you need.
This guide will walk you through choosing a sunscreen that suits your skin type and activity level.
SPF: the higher the number, the higher the level of protection?
Many people are under the impression that if they use a sunscreen with a higher SPF, they will have a significantly higher level of protection from the sun. What they don’t understand is that:
- The SPF rating on sunscreen describes the amount of UVB rays (which cause sunburns) it will block, not the UVA rays that actually cause the long-term skin damage and wrinkles
- Sunscreen with an SPF of 15 is actually sufficient in blocking most UVB rays, if applied heavily and often throughout someone’s time in the sun–at least every two hours
- While it is true that higher levels of SPF will block more UVB rays, it is not a significant increase, merely 2-4% higher
- Regardless of the strength of the sunscreen against UVB rays, it must be applied often; even the highest SPF sunscreen will wear off throughout the day.
- Sufficiently protecting against UVA rays requires a bit more research, including seeking out sunscreens that contain ingredients deemed by the Food and Drug Administration to protect against UVA rays. -Different skin types require varying degrees of UVB and UVA protection.