Sunscreen is the cornerstone for healthy, glowing skin. But there’s a lot of misinformation and confusion about different SPFs. This article unpacks SPFs role in your skincare routine and sheds light on some common SPF myths.
WHAT IS SPF, AND WHAT DOES IT DO?
SPF means Sun Protection Factor. It measures how much a product protects your skin against UVB and UVA rays. UVB harms the topmost layers of your skin, causing sunburn. UVA penetrates deeper and speeds up aging by creating wrinkles and pigmentation. That’s why it’s essential you use a broad-spectrum sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB.
Here are some key reasons why you should wear sunscreen daily:
- • Reduces the risk of sunburn
- • Slows down premature aging
- • Protects from skin cancer
- • Lowers hyperpigmentation
Understanding Different SPFs
The higher SPF, the longer it protects the skin from burning. An SPF 50 shields your skin from the sun 50 times longer than if you weren’t wearing any. That equals 500 minutes of sunscreen protection. However, that’s only accurate in perfect conditions and doesn’t consider oils, pollution, sweat, and activities.
Higher SPFs also provide more coverage. For example, SPF 50 blocks around 98% of sun rays, but there’s only a marginal difference if you go higher than SPF 50.
COMMON SPF MYTHS
Now, let’s get into some myths surrounding SPF so you can get the most out of your sunscreen.
1. SPF MAKEUP MEANS YOU DON’T NEED TO WEAR SUNSCREEN
Many makeup and skincare products, such as moisturizers and foundations, contain SPF. While that’s great, the products rarely have enough SPF to provide full coverage. You must add sunscreen as a base layer before you apply your makeup.
Be generous! Smooth on at least one teaspoon of sunscreen to your face (don’t forget your lips) and another dollop to protect your neck from developing fine lines. You should also learn to reapply sunscreen over makeup for maximum daily protection.
2. THE HIGHER THE SPF, THE LESS FREQUENTLY YOU NEED TO TOP UP
Untrue. Even though a higher SPF provides more coverage and longer-lasting protection, that doesn’t mean you should neglect reapplication. That’s because SPF ratings only refer to UVB rays. Whether you are wearing SPF 30 or SPF 50, you must reapply your sunscreen every 2 hours.
People wearing a high SPF also tend to neglect sunscreen top-ups because it creates a false sense of security. This can increase the risk of sun damage, so make sure you always protect your skin accordingly.
3. SUNSCREEN CAUSES BREAKOUTS
You may believe sunscreen causes breakouts and therefore skip the essential step in your skincare routine. However, this is a common misconception, and it’s actually the sun that triggers acne.
UVA and UVB rays aggravate the skin causing inflammation. The exposure also dries out the skin barrier, creating blemishes. However, selecting the right product is also important. Cheaper sunscreens may contain harsh ingredients that clog pores.
Ensure you use high-quality sunscreen that protects your skin and gives extra hydration to prevent breakouts. 3LAB carefully formulates sunscreens to provide maximum protection while keeping your skin silky smooth.
Here are some enriching ingredients we’ve included in 3LAB’s Perfect Sunscreen SPF 50+ Broad Spectrum:
- • Green Tea Extract – Contains anti-oxidants to protect the skin and lipid barrier from skin damage, reducing moisture loss. It’s also a soothing anti-inflammatory, so you can liberally apply Perfect Sunscreen without a breakout.
- • Portulaca Extract – A beautiful ingredient for sensitive skin, portulaca extract protects skin cells against UV damage and is rich in fatty acids and vitamins for ultimate hydration.
4. MINERAL SUNSCREENS ARE GOOD, AND CHEMICAL SUNSCREENS ARE BAD
There are two types of sunscreen: mineral, and chemical. They protect your skin using different ingredients. Neither is better; it’s simply a personal preference and compatibility with your skin type.
Chemical sunscreen
Chemical sunscreen absorbs UVB and UVA, creating a protective shield against your skin and the sun. It typically uses ingredients such as avobenzone and homosalate. Our Sunscreen SPF 50+ chemical sunscreen provides sheer coverage and powerfully hydrates to enhance your natural glow.
Mineral sunscreen
Mineral sunscreen reflects the sun’s harmful rays, usually with titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. Our Lite Sunscreen SPF 30 is a mineral sunscreen option that protects you using a lightweight formula, perfect for sensitive skin.
5. YOU DON’T NEED SUNSCREEN WHEN IT’S CLOUDY
Incorrect. You must wear SPF all year round, even when it’s cloudy. The sun still penetrates cloud cover (otherwise, it would be pitch black!) and passes through glass. Whether walking to work during an overcast day or working near a window, always apply SPF for a healthy complexion.
EMBRACE SPF WITH 3LAB’S SUNSCREENS
Understanding SPF myths to protect your luminous skin is essential. 3LAB’s Perfect Sunscreen line is specially curated with your skincare needs in mind. That’s why we provide high-quality sun protection infused with nurturing ingredients for a healthy glow.
