The skin is an essential yet sensitive part of the body. It safeguards the muscles from microbes damaging the body. However, sometimes the things that protect also need protection. As the outermost layer of the body, some parts of the skin are often left exposed to the sun. The sun not only emits sunlight but ultraviolet rays as well.
Many people think that tanning is done due to the heat from the sunlight. In reality, tanning is a self-defence mechanism of the skin from ultraviolet rays. When the skin is exposed to UV rays from the sun, it produces melanin leading to a darker shade of the skin.
The same mechanism cannot protect the skin from the rays indefinitely which is why sun protection cream is applied. Such creams act as a barrier between skin and the UV rays and safeguard the skin. There are plenty of similar creams or lotions but there is one thing common among all which is SPF.
What is SPF?
Sun Protection Factor or SPF is the measurement of sun protection from UVB rays that the lotion can provide. They are measured in specified numbers including SPF 15, 30, 40, 50, 70 and more. Now you know what does SPF stand for, but which SPF to choose is still unknown.
When it comes to picking the right SPF, then it all depends on the sun exposure that your skin is going to take. SPF works by absorbing the UVB rays from the sun for a specific duration. For instance, SPF 15 can protect the skin 15 times longer than no protection. The same rule applies to the other numbers.
The higher SPF goes on the number scale, the more effective it becomes in protection. On the other hand, the protection ratio declines as the number increases. SPF 15 filters 93% of the rays whereas SPF 30 and SPF 50 can filter 97% and 98% UVB rays respectively. You can see that there is not much difference between SPF 30 and SPF 50. However, if you are among those who spend significant time under direct sunlight, then going for bigger numbers is strongly recommended.
Who Should Use SPF?
Everybody has skin and all are prone to sun damage. With that thing in mind, everybody should use SPF. Whether they are a man, woman, or child, no person should head out under direct sunlight without sunscreen except for children under six months as their skin is extremely sensitive. Apart from that, people with all skin types and tone should use SPF.
What Type of Sunscreen to Use?
Sunscreens come in different types. As long as they can define what SPF means and its measurement, then they are effective. For the best results, it is advised to get sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection as it can protect the skin from UVA as well as UVB rays. Apart from that, if you are an athlete, you should probably look for the water-resistance of the cream as well.
Where to Apply SPF?
Understanding SPF meaning is not just enough to maximise the effectiveness. The sole way to get the best results is by the right application. Often people get confused about where they should apply sunscreen. The primary target should be the most exposed areas of the skin like the face, arms, legs, and neck. Apart from that, lips and eyelid should also be covered with SPF.
Even after covering the skin with clothes, the UV rays can reach the skin by penetrating the clothing layer. For the best protection, it is always recommended to apply sun protection cream before getting dressed to eradicate the possibility of skin damage.
What is the Right SPF?
When it comes to the right SPF, then it all depends on the skin exposure. The bare minimum should be SPF 30 which can absorb 97% of the UVB rays. If your sun exposure is high, then getting SPF 50 or more is a smarter choice to make.
Now you know what SPF means, SPF full form, and what SPF to choose. Always apply sunblock before going out in the day time to keep your skin safe. With all this information, you should include SPF in your everyday skincare routine. Just apply a sufficient amount and reapply after a couple of hours for extended protection against the sun.
