WHAT YOU NEVER KNEW YOU NEVER KNEW ABOUT SPF
By now you've all heard me talk about the importance of sunscreen and how it's arguably the most essential part of your skincare routine, but of the course over the past couple of weeks, I think that we can all agree that most of our regular routines are somewhat of a distant memory. As we all fight through this difficult time and practice safe social distancing, I wanted to help answer some common SPF questions I've had from some of my patients. The truth is sunscreen is still a vital step of your skincare routine, irrespective of your gender, age, or skin color. To ensure that you are all fully prepared no matter what, I'm debunking some of the common myths that surround sunscreen. Because during these uncertain times, I would like to pass along a friendly reminder to remember to protect your skin and your health as we all try our best to put the right foot forward. Here are 5 Answers to Questions about sunscreen that I'm breaking down.
DO I NEED TO WEAR SUNSCREEN MY DAILY WALKS, BECAUSE I'M INSIDE MOST OF THE DAY? The answer is yes. While keeping your social distance and doing your part to stop the spread, it is also still important that you take good care of your skin on your daily walks (again while practicing safe social distancing) and anytime you are outside or working near any windows or light for that matter.
SHOULD I APPLY MY SUNSCREEN BEFORE OR AFTER MY MOISTURIZER? I prefer you apply your sunscreen after you apply your moisturizer. I am happy that you are applying it as part of your AM routine, so well done! I recommend using physical sunblock (like Alastin Skincare Hydrating sunscreen) to fight sun damage over a chemical sunblock, and be sure to use an SPF of at least 30 that contains zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as these ingredients help reflect ultraviolet rays after you apply your moisturizer. A good rule of thumb - Cleanse, Moisturize and Protect.
DO I NEED TO WORRY ABOUT WEARING SUNSCREEN ON A CLOUDY DAY? Yes! While clouds can reduce some of the sun's UV rays, they don't block all of them. UVB rays (that are also damaging to the skin, cloudy or not) are still prevalent even on a hazy day. Remember that if you are outside for an extended period of time you should reapply to help your skin stay healthy for the long haul.
IS WATERPROOF REALLY WATERPROOF? Unfortunately, no sunscreen is completely waterproof, and the FDA no longer allows sunscreens to label their products to be waterproof or sweat proof. They are now labeled water-resistant and are tested to be effective for up to 40 minutes of swimming. The truth is, you will need to reapply your sunscreen every two hours if you plan to stay outside longer than that, and you should reapply after swimming, sweating, or towel drying.
WHAT DOES A HIGHER NUMBERED SPF REALLY MEAN? Great question, and honestly, one of the most common questions I get! SPF (sun protection factor) tells you how long the sun's (UV) radiation would take to redden your skin when using the product as directed versus the amount without any sunscreen. So ideally, with SPF 30, it would take you 30 times longer to burn than if you weren't wearing sunscreen. So the higher the number, the more protection, right? Technically yes, for example; an SPF 30 blocks about 97% of the UVB rays and SPF 50 blocks about 98%, when applied correctly. Higher-SPF products can protect you from sunburns (UVB rays), but it can still leave you vulnerable to doses of UVA (aging) rays. To ensure you are getting the best protection, check the ingredient list and be sure that your sunscreen contains zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, these ingredients protect your skin from UVA rays.
The goal is to find a "broad-spectrum" sunscreen that will protect your skin and block both UVB and UVA light. Don't leave it all up to sunscreen. Protect yourself with natural shade, a pair of chic sunglasses, or an SPF hat to help keep your skin looking healthier longer.
Have more questions about your sunscreen? Leave them in the comments below, and I will answer them! xx