Can regular sunscreen protect you from the sun? Sun protection without harm to the skin - what is included in the composition of sunscreens. Choosing a sunscreen for yourself and for the child

How did sunscreen come about?

Until the 20th century, pale skin was fashionable, tanning was considered a feature of the lower class, as they had to work for a long time in the street under the scorching sun. Noble people hid from sun rays big hats and umbrellas. In the middle of the last century, during the era of industrial development, workers moved into the premises and spent most of their day in the building. The situation has changed, and sunburn has become a sign of privileged classes. It was at that time that the question arose: how to make it beautiful and even? Then the first sunscreen appeared, it was red in color and had a sticky base. This tool formed the basis of many modern ones, but it did not provide the necessary protection.

Sunscreen is a topical product that reflects or absorbs UV rays to protect the skin from sunburn. Many people know about the benefits, but few know about the dangers.

Scientific studies on the dangers of sunscreen for the skin

The sense of security that sunscreens provide is deceptive. This is evidenced by a number of scientific studies.

Increased concentration harmful substances in organism

An experiment was conducted in America. 24 people (both men and women) with an average age of 35 years used a suntan lotion, cream or spray for 4 days. They applied it 4 times a day to 75% of the body surface. At the end of the study, participants took a blood test. According to the conclusion of American scientists from the FDA, with prolonged use of protective agents in the blood, the level of such harmful substances increases. If the content rate is 0.5 nanograms per milliliter, then an increase in the level was noted in the blood:

oxybenzone - up to 209.6 nanograms per milliliter;

avobenzone - about 4 nanograms per milliliter;

octocrylene - 5.7-7.8 nanograms per milliliter;

ecamsula - 1.5 nanograms per milliliter.

Oxybenzone, a commonly used UV filter (benzophenone-3) in sunscreens, can cause hormonal imbalances that affect fertility. Also, this substance is carcinogenic.

Another study has been done on this component. During the experiment, scientists from the United States studied more than 2,000 urine samples of Americans of different ages, gender and ethnicity. Benzophenone-3 was detected in 96% of cases. Scientists also reported that the content of the substance is 3 times higher in young women than in men, and 7 times higher in white Americans than in African Americans.

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The effect of sunscreens on the development of skin cancer

According to research by Philippe Otheo of the WHO International Agency for Cancer Research, sunscreen products with a high SPF filter can change the effect of the sun's rays on the body, increasing the risk of developing skin cancer (melanoma). According to the doctor, a person sunbathing without any sunscreen has the same chances of oncology as with their use.

Elizabeth Plourd of the University of California also noted a progressive increase in the incidence of malignant neoplasms due to the constant use of sunscreen products over the past 30 years. In her opinion, this is due to the negative impact of the active chemical components that make up the product and are carcinogens and / or hormonal ingredients.

Is sunscreen harmful?

The level of protection is determined by a special indicator SPF, multiplied by 10, shows the duration of safe exposure to the sun. For example, SPF10 indicates that protection will be within 100 minutes. This suggests that the larger the value, the longer you can be in the sun, however, this is fundamentally not the case.

The harm of sunscreen for the skin of the body and face lies in the fact that people trust it too much. In theory and practice there are different situations. Using a large SPF, a person stays too long in the sun, believing that the cream will save him from all troubles. In fact, it protects the skin for a limited amount of time, after which it breaks down into free radicals that are absorbed into the skin. Thus, the benefit turns into harm.

There is no evidence that they help in preventing skin cancer. Therefore, it is not recommended to use the cream as the only means of protection from the sun, it is preferable to have a hat and be in the shade from time to time.

The chemical and physical filters in sunscreen are the active ingredients. The nature of their effect on the skin is different, but the functions are similar, most often they are harmless.

Chemical filters capture UV radiation, change its structure, turning it into heat. There are organic and inorganic origin, can cause allergies. They provide stronger protection, so you can find them more often, especially in SPF above 30. Studies have shown that active chemical components can lead to hormonal disruption and are toxic. Now that you know the dangers of these sunscreens, we recommend choosing physical protection products with less harmful ingredients.

Physical filters are considered natural and form a protective film on the skin. These products are most often based on titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, they do not penetrate the skin and do not cause oncological diseases. They are used in baby creams due to hypoallergenicity. But the harm of sunscreen with natural ingredients cannot be ruled out. For example:

The presence of vitamin A in the composition is quite controversial. On the one hand, it is a good antioxidant, but it shows this property in the absence of the sun. Under open rays can provoke the formation of tumors.

Most creams contain essential oils which provide additional protection and nourishment. They may also contain anti-inflammatory elements that prevent burns. Just because of the lack of pain, it seems that the cream protects the skin well, but for the most part this is a hoax.

Choice the right remedy from the sun

The sunscreen market is quite saturated. There are creams, oils, sprays for both tanning and after. The choice mostly comes down to preference, but there are a few guidelines:

In hot countries, it is worth using sunscreen even on cloudy days.

The product is applied half an hour before going out into the sun, so that it has time to be absorbed and begin to act.

After bathing, the procedure should be repeated.

For oily skin gels and emulsions are more suitable.

For dry - cream, and owners of combination skin can use oils.

Sprays are quite convenient, but they can get on the mucous membranes, so they are not recommended for allergy sufferers.

There is also a regular day cream with SPF, which should be applied on vacation just for a walk.

Tanned healthy skin gives a woman a beautiful appearance and attracts attention. In order not to burn out in the sun, but to get an even beautiful tan, you need to use sunscreen. They help protect against sunburn, photoaging, irritation and unwanted wrinkles. What sunscreen to choose and how to use it correctly, we will tell in our article.

How to choose the right SPF?

The most important factor in sunscreen is the SPF. This figure indicates the amount of time you can be in the sun without the risk of getting burned. Beauticians offer a formula with which you can easily calculate the time to safely stay in the sun when applying sunscreen:

Time=SPF*5 min.

From this formula it follows that, for example, when applying a cream with a protection factor of 20, you can be in the sun for 100 minutes, or 1 hour and 40 minutes. After this time, in order to avoid the negative effects of negative UV rays, you need to renew the cream on the skin. In addition, not all creams have moisture protection, so after bathing, you should smear the cream again. In addition, sand and water increase the reflectivity of the rays, so you need to renew the cream much more often. If you follow these recommendations, you will get an even, beautiful tan.

Rating TOP 7 best sunscreens for the body

The choice of sunscreen should be treated with great responsibility. We studied the composition, description, recommendations of dermatologists and cosmetologists, and made a rating of the best sun creams. The top 7 ranking includes:

Biocon Sun Time;
Garnier Ambre Solaire;
Librederm Bronziade;
L'Oréal Sublime Sun;

Let's talk in more detail about each cosmetic product.

Biocon Sun Time

Sunscreen white color. Perfect for protecting sensitive and fair skin from the scorching rays of the sun. Able to prevent burns even from ultraviolet rays with long radiation. It is a waterproof cosmetic product. Easy to apply and quickly absorbed. Non-greasy in texture.

Cost: 282 rubles.

Cream Biocon Sun Time

does not wash off when bathing;
protects against photoaging of the skin;
high protection (SPF 40) helps to cope with burns for people with fair skin.

the composition contains substances that are not environmentally friendly;
sticky until dry.

Great budget option. I have fair skin and this cream suits me perfectly, protects against burns and redness. The tool is intended for the first days of exposure to the sun, but I use it constantly. The convenient dispenser provides simplicity and convenience of drawing.

The cream perfectly protects even the lightest skin from UV rays. It has softening and moisturizing properties. The composition contains vitamin E, which provides the skin with thorough care. And panthenol promotes skin regeneration, relieves irritation and protects against sunburn. Has a waterproof effect.

Price tag: 395 rubles.

cream SOLBIANCA

protection against photoaging;
used even for the lightest skin;
vitamins and oils included in the composition moisturize and soften the skin;
waterproof;
for face and body.

poorly distributed throughout the body;
fatty.

I ordered the cream online. When it arrived, I tried it right away. The product smells good. After application, the skin is pleasant and soft to the touch. The texture is oily, but for me this is a plus, because I have dry skin. The lid has a special latch that prevents the cream from spreading when carried in a bag.

GARNIER Ambre Solaire

Tool for the younger generation. The cream was developed by dermatologists and cosmetologists, taking into account all the features of the delicate skin of babies. Does not contain fragrances, parabens and dyes. Has a hypoallergenic composition. It has a high protection factor, so it is suitable even for fair skin. May be used from birth.

Price: 420 r.

Cream Garnier Ambre Solaire

hypoallergenic;
suitable for sensitive skin;
can be used from birth;
environmentally friendly composition;
big factor SPF 50;
Recommended for both mothers and babies.

dense, hard to spread.

In saving mode, I buy one product for myself and the child. According to the characteristics of this cream is ideal for sensitive skin. Indeed, it protects very well. I apply it on both my face and décolleté. Doesn't stain clothes. There is no smell, the composition is completely from safe ingredients. Does not cause allergies.

Moisturizes, softens and perfectly protects from harmful sun rays. The natural composition allows you to apply even to children. Suitable for all skin types. In its composition contains almond oil, sesame and olive oils, vitamin E and calendula extract. It has an antiseptic effect and has an anti-inflammatory effect.

Cost: 750 r.

Levrana cream

does not cause allergies;
natural composition;
protects even the fairest skin;
for face and body;
suitable for children;
oils soften the skin;
disinfecting effect.

washed off when swimming;
leaves white marks.

The advantage of this product is its versatility. I use it for the whole body. Does not cause allergies, perfectly protects. The skin after the cream becomes soft and silky. Has a pleasant smell. We can say that it combines the qualities of a sunscreen and moisturizer.

Librederm Bronziade

Cream for face and décolleté. The product protects sensitive skin from the action of even the longest harmful rays. The composition contains oils, carrot extract, lecithin, glycerin and vitamin E. This product was created with the aim of acquiring an even bronze tan. Prevents skin from aging. The cream has a quality certificate.

Price tag: 835 rubles.

Cream Librederm Bronziade

protects sensitive skin;
light texture is well absorbed;
waterproof;
softens, moisturizes and improves the appearance of the skin;
protects against the formation of age spots;
skin rejuvenation effect.

must be updated after 45-50 minutes;
washed off when swimming.

It has all the necessary properties. I have problematic skin prone to pigmentation, so for a long time I could not find a sunscreen that would help preserve my beauty. On the advice of a friend, I tried this product and was just delighted. No rashes, darkening or irritation. The main thing is not to forget to renew the cream.

L'Oreal Sublime Sun

Sunscreen face cream with jasmine extract, which stimulates metabolism and has anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, the cream has a wonderful smell. Protects the skin from the most aggressive rays, while suitable for any type. It is perfectly absorbed and allows you to apply it even under makeup.

Price: 1100 r.

cream L'Oreal Sublime Sun

enough for a long time (volume 75 ml);
prevents the formation of pigmentation and wrinkles;
protects against photoaging;
has antiseptic properties;
the skin is smooth and silky.

need to be updated approximately every hour;
not suitable for those with oily skin.

I took it with me on a trip. Pleased with the volume. Sold in a box. Perfect fit for my skin. Well absorbed. The smell is pleasant. It protects the skin of the face and neck from the sun very well. Doesn't clog pores. Doesn't flow. Should be updated if necessary.

Sunscreen is suitable for people with sensitive skin. Protects and soothes, softens and stimulates metabolic processes. Contains in the composition sunflower oil, shea butter, evening primrose and glycerin. It is recommended to apply to the skin 20 minutes before the exit, so that the cream has time to be absorbed well. Can be used on skin prone to acne and allergies.

Cost: 1350 r.

without dyes and preservatives;
does not cause allergies;
suitable for problematic skin;
protects against premature aging and wrinkles;
moisturizes;
improves blood flow in tissues.

dense texture;
leaves white marks.

The composition of the cream is very important to me, as the skin is prone to allergies. My choice fell on this sunscreen. The oils included in the composition have excellent cosmetic properties, glycerin softens and moisturizes the skin. The cream perfectly fights against the sun's rays and does not allow the skin to burn.

Comparison table of characteristics

Present to your attention comparative characteristic best sunscreens:

Name	SPF factor	Manufacturer	Volume (ml)	Price, rub.)
Biocon Sun Time	40	CIS. Russia	150	282
	50	Russia	200	395
GARNIER Ambre Solaire	50	France	50	420
	50	Russia	50	750
Librederm Bronziade	30	Italy	50	835
L'Oreal Sublime Sun	30	France	75	1100
	30	Germany	75	1350

Lists of the best

With moderate exposure to the sun on the body, metabolic processes improve, the amount of hemoglobin increases, vitamin D is produced, which ensures the delivery of calcium to the bones, mood improves, and our skin acquires a beautiful golden hue. All this happens under the condition of safe exposure to sunlight. We are able to help protect our skin from negative effects. Above, we have sorted out the 7 best sunscreens that will help us with this. To help you make a better choice, here are some more of the best sun creams in the following categories:

budgetary;
for children;
the best composition.

Floresan Beauty Sun - budget

It has an SPF 100 factor, so it is able to protect even the fairest skin. The cream is not washed off when swimming. Protects against burns, irritations, photoaging, pigment spots and wrinkles. The composition includes vitamin E, which contributes to the nutrition and hydration of the skin. And panthenol has an anti-inflammatory effect. A convenient dispenser of the cream helps to distribute it evenly and without problems throughout the body.

Cost: 207 rubles.

cream Floresan Beauty Sun

Nivea Sun Kids - for children

Children's skin is more sensitive than adults, so special attention should be paid to protecting children's skin. This tool has SPF 50, contributes to maximum protection for a long time. The composition contains panthenol and vitamin E. It has a moisturizing effect. Easy to apply and quickly absorbed. Doesn't stain clothes. The smell is pleasant. Super water resistant.

Price: 233 p.

cream Nivea Sun Kids

Avene - the best composition

Mineral shield cream absorbs harmful UV rays and prevents them from exerting bad influence on the skin. The light texture makes it easy to spread over the body. Absorbs quickly and leaves no residue. It can be used on the face and even under make-up. It has a cosmetic pleasant smell. Contains vitamin E. SPF 50 allows people to use even with very fair skin. Does not contain parabens. No need to reapply after swimming.

Price tag: 1220 rubles.

How to apply

Read the instructions before using any sunscreen. Many sunscreens are thick and must be applied half an hour before sun exposure to absorb. Do not forget to renew the cream after a certain time to maintain its effect. You should pay attention to whether the cream is waterproof or not. If washed off when swimming, then after water procedures the cream needs to be reapplied. Sunscreen should only be used as directed. If it is written that it is for the body, do not smear it on the face in order to avoid irritation and allergies. Not worth saving. While in the shade, you should also use sunscreen, shelter from the sun does not guarantee protection from harmful UV rays.

What to look for when choosing

When choosing a sunscreen, you should pay attention to the following factors:

SPF. When you first go out into the sun, you should choose the maximum protection so as not to burn yourself. As soon as the skin gets used to the sun's rays, the degree of protection can be reduced. The lighter the skin, the higher the SPF factor should be. And most importantly, depending on the SPF, do not forget to renew the cream.
Cream prescription. There are creams intended only for the body, there are for the face and décolleté. Adult sunscreens should not be used on children. In children, the skin is more susceptible to sunlight, so children's creams contain substances that create a protective barrier.
Compound. Many creams contain substances that can cause allergies. Organic creams are made from natural ingredients. Often, manufacturers add oils and vitamins for care.
spectrum of action. Not all sunscreens are capable of protecting against long exposure to the sun.
Waterproof property of the cream. Some creams are washed off with water and you need to remember to renew them so as not to get burned.
Volume and expiration date. The cream should not be stored for more than 2 years. Over time, it loses its properties and can cause irritation and allergies.

1
UVB stimulate the production of melanin, that is, they are responsible for Tan. They also cause sunshine. burns.
2
UVA penetrate deeper into tissues, destroy cell DNA, provoke photoaging(wrinkles, age spots), photodermatitis, can lead to malignant neoplasms.

When choosing a sunscreen, it is important to know what it protects against © Getty Images

The numbers next to the abbreviation SPF(Sun Protection Factor) inform about the degree of protection only against UVB rays i.e. burns. The level of protection against A-rays has a different indication. This protection is provided by means with the following marking:

the letter "A" in a circle;

inscription broad spectrum (broad spectrum of radiation);

abbreviation PPD (Persistent Pigment Darkening) or PA - in the Asian market.

What are creams with SPF

Sunscreens are divided into several groups depending on the SPF value.

1
Low degree of protection - these include all means with SPF below 15. Such funds are suitable only for people with very dark skin V and VI phototypes.
2
Medium degree of protection - SPF 15-20. It is addressed to naturally swarthy people who do not burn in the sun. However, much depends on the level of solar activity. With the scorching summer sun in the mountains, the tropics or on the coast, such protection will be insufficient.
3
High degree of protection - SPF 30 and 50.
4
Very high degree of protection SPF 50+- this category includes sunscreen products with a factor of 70, 80, 100.

Sunscreen with SPF 70, 80, 100

The higher the SPF value of a sunscreen, the better it protects from the sun. Does this mean that choosing a cream with a three-digit protective factor, you can feel safe? The answer is no, you can't, and here's why.

1
None of the existing cosmetics provides complete protection from the sun.
2
The consumer, following the simplest logic, thinks that SPF 30 protects the skin twice as much as SPF 15, and SPF 100 is twice as high as SPF 50. In fact, the logic is different.

SPF 15 blocks 93% of UVB rays.

SPF 50 (+) - 98%.

As you can see, the difference between fifty and one hundred is very small, only one percent. That's why European recommendations it is prescribed to indicate the maximum SPF 50 on the package, and mark everything above with a “+” sign.

Dermatologists believe that "weaving" purely psychologically gives the consumer a false sense of complete security and he begins to neglect the rules of "safe tanning", without which creams with SPF simply cannot provide the claimed protection, ”garnier expert Marina Kamanina believes.

So if you get burned even undercover SPF creams 50+ means you did something wrong. Check yourself again by reading.

Recall the two basic rules for using SPF cosmetics.

1
Apply generously and evenly.
2
Renew every 2 hours and after swimming.

Rating of the best creams with an SPF 50 factor

In this review, we have collected the best, according to the site team, products with a maximum protection factor of 50 and 50+.

Mattifying Gel Cream Anthelios XL, SPF 50+, La Roche-Posay

A godsend for those who struggle with oily sheen on their face every summer. The tool not only protects the skin from the sun, but also mattifies due to the Airlicium component.

Face and eye cream Anthelios Ultra Cream, SPF 50+, La Roche-Posay

Moisturizing non-greasy cream that can be applied to the skin of the face, including the eyelid area.

Ambre Solaire Expert Protection Moisturizing Dry Face Spray SPF 50, Garnier, 75 ml

Indisputable advantages: lightness, compactness and the ability to apply even over makeup.

Sun stick for sensitive areas and lips Capital Idéal Soleil, SPF 50+, Vichy

Saves sensitive areas from sunburn and prevents photoaging. The stick can be used instead of hygienic lipstick, treated with moles, applied to the delicate skin around the eyes. The list of ingredients has a lot of useful things: cocoa butter and shea butter, Castor oil, vitamin E.

Body spray Sublime Sun "Extra Protection", SPF 50+, L "Oréal Paris

Enhanced protection against UVB and UVA rays combined with an airy texture that is imperceptible on the skin. And no white marks.

Gel "Vetskin" Anthelios 50+, La Roche-Posay

The water-repellent sunscreen is created using a special technology that allows it to be applied directly to wet skin. At the same time, the sun protection properties remain at their best.

Toning treatment against age spots, SPF 50+, Vichy

3-in-1 product: tints, protects against UV and therefore prevents unwanted hyperpigmentation. Plus, it fights already existing age spots.

LOVE VERESCHINSKAYA

sun protector

Why protect yourself from the sun

In summer, winter, in clear and cloudy weather, ultraviolet radiation falls on open areas of the body. In small amounts, it is known to stimulate the production of vitamin D and improve mood. If you show the sun your face and hands for 15 minutes a day, three times a week, it will not hurt.

But the sun also has an opposite - harmful - side. Sunburn, solariums and life on the beach lead to serious problems - burns, photosensitivity, pigmentation, early aging and several types of skin cancer.

With sun, shade and clothing, everything is more or less obvious. We will tell about the harm of solariums. And in this article, we will shed light on sunscreens, or sunscreens.

How to know if you need sunscreen

Temperature and cloud cover are misleading guides. Even if there are clouds in the sky, and outside the window early spring, this does not mean that you are safe and the cream is not needed. Ultraviolet easily penetrates through clouds and glass. Therefore, American dermatologists and oncologists, for example, recommend applying sunscreen, regardless of whether you see the sun or not.

A good example of the deceitfulness of cloudy weather is mountains. There seems to be no sun in the French Alps, and the UV index is higher than in cloudless Moscow

The general rules of behavior depending on the index are as follows:

for a short walk you can do without sunscreen

need shirt, hat and sunscreen

even in a hat and sunscreen it is better to go into the shade or into the room

How to choose a sun cream

There are two ways: easy and hard.

The easy way is to buy any product with SPF 15 and above, apply a thick layer and not worry. In most cases, sunburns are not caused by the quality of the product, but by too economical application to the skin. If you don't want to understand, dive in.

Difficult path- for responsible consumers who want to understand how everything works, and, possibly, save money. If you are one of them, here's what you need to know.

About the type of radiation

The packaging of sunscreens indicates the type of rays from which they protect - UVA and UVB. Both types of radiation cause skin cancer, the difference between them is in the wavelength and the specifics of the impact:

UVA penetrate deep into the skin and cause wrinkles,

UVBs act superficially and cause burns.

A good sunscreen protects from all rays. Usually these tools are called broad spectrum", or "broad spectrum".

About SPF

All sunscreens revolve around this contraction. SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, is an index of protection against UVB rays. The higher it is, the less UVB rays will reach the skin covered with the product.

SPF % Reflected UVB

The percentage difference is small, but it is significant if you have fair skin and are exposed to intense sun for a long time. Then better fit cream with a high SPF.

There is more sun in the mountains and by the sea than on the plain, so for such an area it is also better to choose a more powerful sunscreen.

Physical filters sting for nanoparticles of titanium and zinc oxides that penetrate the skin and remain in it. But there is no scientific evidence for this. But it is known that they definitely do not cause allergies, and therefore are recommended for children and owners of sensitive skin, for example, with rosacea.

About water resistance

In the US, manufacturers of sunscreens have been banned from using the "waterproof" label because there are no such products. Instead, you can use the expression "water resistant" with a note of how long the product will retain its properties. The most powerful sunscreen with SPF 50+ will protect from the sun in the water for a maximum of 80 minutes.

This cream honestly writes that it will last 80 minutes in water. I use it for jogging under the hot sun

There is no such rule in Russia, so anything can be written on the packages. You should not believe this.

Super waterproof spray is an oxymoron. Sprays are liquid, and therefore are easily washed off with water. Usually water-resistant sunscreen has the consistency of an ointment. Well, UVB was circled for some reason

Any sunscreen is washed off with water and sweat, so it's best to reapply it every time you swim or sweat.

About the price

There is no fundamental difference between cheap and expensive products. Like any cosmetics, sunscreens undergo safety tests and receive certificates. In the US, cosmetics are certified by the FDA, in Russia it is done by Rospotrebnadzor, in Europe there is voluntary and state certification, which may differ depending on the country.

The difference between an expensive and a cheap product is usually obtained from the price of the brand and the price of the auxiliary components. In an expensive cream with SPF, manufacturers can add vitamins, some natural ingredient, make beautiful packaging and advertising. In this case, both products will equally well protect the skin from the sun.

If there is time and desire, then it is better to choose sunscreens not by price, but based on the needs of the skin. For example, if the skin is sensitive and prone to breakouts, you can choose sunscreen with soothing substances - aloe vera or centella asiatica.

How to apply sunscreen on skin

How many

Any sunscreen is recommended to be applied in a dense layer over all exposed parts of the body. According to statistics, only 15% of men and 30% of women do this.

Sunscreen - what is it? Is it a really necessary item in everyday life or is it just a marketing ploy? If you believe the statements of doctors, sun protection is really important, and its presence in the summer cannot be overestimated at all, because prolonged exposure to the sun eventually results in burns, redness, and even more serious diseases.

At the beginning of the summer season, it's time to get ready and get sunscreen. It will be useful to you regardless of whether you spend your vacation on the beach or stay in the city. And we will tell you which sunscreen to choose and how not to make a mistake with the purchase.

Why you need sunscreen

It would seem that being in the sun is healthy, pleasant, and also necessary to show off a golden tan. However, everything should be in moderation, and you need to approach sunbathing with care. There are several reasons that make the sun's rays dangerous:

Prolonged exposure to the sun leads to burns. Of course, this is the least of the problems, but also very unpleasant. Burned skin is sore, red, and blistering. In addition, the appearance of a person burned in the sun also leaves much to be desired;
Premature aging. Ultraviolet accelerates the aging of the skin, reduces its elasticity, promotes the development of age spots. If you abuse beach procedures, but forget about sun protection, wrinkles will not take long;
Skin cancer. Perhaps the most serious consequence that can be obtained by regularly tanning without SPF. This item does not apply to everyone, because, in addition to exposure to sunlight, one must also take into account heredity, skin type and conditions. environment. Nevertheless, the connection of ultraviolet radiation with this disease has long been proven.

How to choose sunscreen

The task of buying sunscreen can be quite daunting. Grabbing the first tube of product from the shelf in the store, you can get acne, clogged pores, and even allergies. So, first you should figure out how to choose the perfect sunscreen for your needs.

Explore the packaging

Carefully read the text on the purchased product - you will find a lot of useful information. In the case of sunscreens, you will come across several acronyms:

SPF- Sun Protection Factor. This is the degree of protection you get when you apply the cream to your skin. Next to these letters, you will see a number in the range from 2 to 50. Products with SPF 2-10 block up to 90% of ultraviolet radiation, those that received the SPF 10 mark and above provide the highest degree of protection. The maximum possible concentration of protective substances is SPF 50. It prevents penetration of up to 99.5% of ultraviolet into the skin. If you see signs above 50 on the package, do not buy such products - sun protection above SPF 50 is simply impossible;
UVA- long ultraviolet waves. For the most part, it is they who reach the surface of the Earth and pose the greatest danger. It is they who threaten the skin with the most unpleasant consequences, from premature aging to all kinds of diseases;
UVB- medium ultraviolet waves. Of those that reach the Earth, there are very few UVB waves - no more than 5%. They cause much less harm, but can still lead to minor burns and reddening of the skin.

Reading the ingredients doesn't hurt either. Parabens, mineral oils and petroleum jelly are actually synthetic ingredients. They actively dry the skin and often cause allergies, as well as clog pores. Vitamin A in sunscreens is also best not to trust. Unlike moisturizers that are not meant to be worn under the sun, using SPF in products can only exacerbate sunburn.

The filters themselves fall into two categories:

mechanical (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide);
chemical (benzophenone, diphenylketone, oxybenzone).

Mechanical filters remain on the surface of the skin, literally reflecting the sun's rays. Chemical filters easily penetrate cells. Some of them cause individual intolerance. However, mechanical filters also have disadvantages: they are credited with more frequent development of acne.

Cream, spray or lotion

There are several types of sunscreen:

cream;
lotion;
oil;
spray;
stick.

There is no fundamental difference between these forms, the only noticeable difference is the degree of density. The cream will be thicker and thicker in texture, while the lotion and oil will be more fluid and easier to spread over the skin. The stick is suitable for those who want to protect specific areas or pay attention to moles and age spots.

Of all the above forms, only the spray has obvious drawbacks. Despite the simple application and distribution over hard-to-reach areas, spraying the product leads to the risk of inhaling the liquid. This will not bring serious harm, but, in the presence of intolerance to the components, the chance of earning an allergic reaction becomes many times higher.

Sunscreen by skin type

Skin type greatly influences which sunscreen to choose:

Dry skin. The ideal form of sunscreen for those with dry skin is cream or oil. Be sure to study the composition and make sure that there are no synthetic components in it or are present in a minimal amount. But natural ones are useful vegetable oils(shea butter - as a natural UV filter, chamomile - to soothe heated skin), as well as panthenol to prevent burns as much as possible;
Oily skin. As opposed to dry skin, sunscreen for oily skin should be light in texture. Gentle lotions and vibes are best. In the composition, avoid mineral oils, petroleum jelly and paraffin. It is also better to give preference to products with chemical filters;
Sensitive skin. The formula of the product can be any convenient for you - from cream to spray. But it is better to choose the SPF value as high as possible - up to 50. Try to choose a hypoallergenic product or test the skin reaction in advance before applying the cream to your face or body. Physical filters for sensitive skin are safer.

How to choose and use sunscreen at sea

During a trip to the sea, sunscreen is indispensable. In this case, you will also have to take into account several factors in order to choose the perfect tool:

Remember about age. The younger you are, the more protection will need the skin under the scorching sun. Sunscreen for children is better to choose with the maximum protection factor;
Take into account your phototype. In temperate latitudes, 4 of them are found: Celtic (light skin, blond hair, freckles), Scandinavian (light skin, light blond hair), European (light skin, blond or light chestnut hair) and Mediterranean (skin is darker, olive , brown hair). The lighter your skin and the closer your phototype is to Celtic, the more protection you will need. However, even representatives of the Mediterranean phototype do not recommend lowering the SPF below 15 at sea in the summer.

While relaxing at sea, it is also worth stocking up on sun protection products with varying degrees of protection. Especially if you come to the sea from a cloudy region, you should start with a sunscreen with a factor of 40-50. But after a few days, when the skin gets used to a lot of sun, you can switch to a less strong product to achieve a tan without harming yourself.

How to use sunscreen correctly

To be sure of the safety of your own skin, when using sunscreen, you also need to remember certain rules:

Start early. Sunscreen should be applied at least 15-20 minutes before going outside. This time is enough for the cream to be absorbed and the filters to activate. If you find yourself in the sun earlier, you will have time to absorb a dose of ultraviolet radiation;
Update protection. A common misconception is that it is enough to apply a product with SPF once a day. In fact, over time, the filters stop working, being destroyed by exposure to sunlight. And if you swim in the sea, then this is completely tantamount to taking a shower - after swimming, the cream will not remain on the skin. Therefore, it is better to repeat the procedure with applying the cream every 1.5-2 hours, and also after each bath;
Protect your whole body. Clothing is not the same as sunscreen. Moreover, summer clothes are light and often translucent. Therefore, before going outside, smear yourself with sunscreen completely;
Don't skimp on the cream. No matter how much you want to save money, it is better to use a moderate amount of cream than to rub in a thin layer. If you spare the means, the barrier will not last even the promised two hours;
Do not attempt to apply over make-up. Even if this isn't the first time you've covered yourself in sun protection, take the time and effort to remove your old makeup and re-apply your SPF cream. Most likely, in two hours under the sun, it will already lose its freshness, and if you are a lover of tight makeup at any time of the year, then acne and irritation will not take long.