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Simply Sona

Simply Sona

July 26, 2017

Everything You Need To Know About SPF

Beauty, Skincare
everything you need to know about spf

We all know we should be using sunscreen, but do you really know why? Coming from a girl who lives in California I’m always in the sun, especially in the summertime! Protecting your skin with sunscreen is the key to looking radiant and youthful as long as possible, even when you can’t stop your age from climbing year after year. So I’m answering all of your burning questions about sunscreen. If you need help finding the right product, I’ve got you covered in this post with everything you need to know about SPF!

everything you need to know about sunscreen

Q: What is SPF?

A: Many people may not know that SPF actually stands for “sun protection factor”, which totally makes sense!

 

Q: What is the difference between UVA and UVB?

A: The sunlight is made of two kinds of rays, UVA and UVB. UVA rays cause premature aging, wrinkles, and can even weaken your immune system because they reach deep into your skin. UVB are the rays that cause your skin to burn in the sun, which is why it’s so important to wear sunscreen and stay protected!

 

Q: What’s the highest SPF that is still effective?

A: You may have heard that any SPF over 50 doesn’t really work, and that’s partially true! Yes, the higher the number on the bottle, the more it will protect your skin. According to Florida dermatologist James M. Spencer on WebMD, SPF 15 blocks around 94% of the sun’s rays, SPF 30 blocks 97%, and SPF 45 blocks around 98%, which is pretty high! However, any number above that doesn’t do much more. So, SPF 50 is one of the most effective numbers that has actually been proven to protect your skin.

 

Q: What is broad spectrum sunscreen?

A: Broad spectrum sunscreen means that it will protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. Too much exposure to the sun’s rays can cause skin cancer, aging, wrinkles, and other health problems so having a broad spectrum sunscreen is very important!

 

Q: What’s the right way to apply sunscreen?

A: Most people actually aren’t using enough sunscreen. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, most adults should be applying one ounce of sunscreen and should reapply at least every two hours. Make sure to get your ears, neck, face, tops of your feet, arms, and legs. Basically any exposed skin should be protected! Also, you can’t forget your lips! They can be easily sunburned and trust me, it’s not fun. Using a lip balm such as the Nivea Sun Protection Lip Care with SPF 30 will keep your pout perfectly plump and burn-free! 

 

Q: Why do sunscreens make your face white?

A: The infamous white cast everyone dreads that is caused by sunscreen, especially if you wear makeup, is from an ingredient called zinc oxide. Zinc oxide is actually one of the best, if not the best ingredient that’s used in sunscreen. It offers the highest level of protection and creates a shield against both UVA and UVB rays.

 

Q: Does the SPF in makeup or skincare provide enough protection?

A: According to Dermatologist Leslie Baumann on WebMD, SPF in makeup isn’t effective enough to be used alone. Technically, you would need 7 times more foundation and 14 times more powder to get the right amount of coverage. Talk about having a cake face…yikes!

 

Q: How long does SPF last?

A: SPF should be applied 30 minutes before you go out into the sun and then reapplied every two hours. You should be reapplying your sunscreen right after you swim or if you’ve been sweating because it wears off a lot faster! It’s also important to make sure you aren’t using an expired tube of sunscreen. Expired sunscreen doesn’t work as well and won’t protect your skin like it should. 

 

Q: Can a sunscreen really be waterproof?

A: Legally, the United States FDA says that you can only claim 40 or 80 minutes of water resistance when it comes to sunscreen. But the key word is water resistant, no sunscreen is completely waterproof and should definitely be reapplied after water exposure.

 

Q: What should I look for when I shop for sunscreen?

A: Finding the right sunscreen is like trying to chose a movie to watch on Netflix, there’s just way too many options! When buying sunscreen, it’s always important to look for a broad spectrum product for the most protection. Almost any sunscreen that is SPF 15 or higher should do the trick! Ingredients to look for that offer the highest levels of protection include oxybenzone, titanium dioxide, or zinc oxide. So make sure to read the label before buying sunscreen. It’s important to be aware with what you’re putting onto your body!

 

Q: What works best, spray or cream sunscreens?

A: According to Jennifer A. Stein, the assistant professor of dermatology at NYU Langone Medical Center in New York City, all three work great if applied correctly! What it really comes down to when choosing sunscreen is personal preference, so use whatever you like best.

 

Q: Is there anyone who shouldn’t or can’t use sunscreen?

A: Sunscreen shouldn’t be used on babies under 6 months of age because their skin is more susceptible to experiencing the side effects of the chemicals in the product. Expecting mothers should also be careful when it comes to using sunscreen, an ingredient to avoid is oxybenzone. Oxybenzone is an ingredient that’s been linked to causing allergies, damage to cells, and even disruption of hormones during development. You should definitely avoid putting you or your baby at risk by reading the product labels before buying sunscreen.

 

Q: What’s the difference between chemical and physical sunscreen? Is one better than the other?

A: Chemical sunscreens cause your skin to absorb the sun’s rays and and physical sunscreens act as reflectors. Chemical sunscreens are the most common, you’re probably using one right now and don’t even know it! Physical sunscreens are generally more natural, so if you have sensitive skin you should think about making the switch! Both types of sunscreen are very protective and safe, again, it all comes down to what works best for you.

 

Q: What specific sunscreen would you recommend?

A: My absolute favorite is the Clarin’s Sunscreen Multi-Protection Broad Spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen, it’s seriously the only one that doesn’t break me out! If you’re going to be out at the pool all day, going on a hike, or riding bikes along the coast this sunscreen works perfect! Another great product is the Kiehl’s Super Fluid UV Defense SPF 50 sunscreen, it’s super lightweight and is infused with vitamin E that hydrates the skin! A great drugstore alternative is the Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer. It’s gentle which is great for sensitive skin and it actually has a little bit of mica in it, which will give your skin the most gorgeous glow! Another awesome drugstore product is the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen. It’s oil free and won’t make your face greasy, which is great for using under your makeup!

the best SPF from the drugstoreI hope you guys enjoyed this post and I answered all your burning questions about sunscreen! Always remember that it’s important to protect your skin not only in the summertime, but all year!

What’s your go-to sunscreen?

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35 Comments

  • ReplyEsha PrabhakarJuly 26, 2017 at 1:05 pm

    Clarin’s sunscreen is theee best! I can never ever step out without SPF.. however I was unaware of lot of facts you mentioned.. the post is so informative! Thank you ?? You look so pretty in the pictures! ???❤️ Love you ❤️ #sonafam

    • ReplySimply SonaJuly 26, 2017 at 2:31 pm

      I’m so happy you liked it! :) Thank you love!

  • ReplyJanelle TrincaJuly 26, 2017 at 2:24 pm

    Sona, Alpha-H Protection Plus Daily 50+ is my go to. This one is brilliant.

  • ReplySonia MarwahaJuly 26, 2017 at 2:41 pm

    Alpha H is my go to! I’m a makeup artist Sona and trying to find a good sunscreen/primer with SPF for destination weddings that doesn’t flashback in photos. Any suggestions? Xx

  • ReplyJune TorresJuly 26, 2017 at 4:28 pm

    This is so informative! I have to say I have used sunscreen for vanity purposes (anti-aging), but knowing more about the health benefits is always a plus. I have used the neutrogena sunscreen for years and love it! Another favorite is my the skincare line Image. Great post!
    Your snapfam,
    June

    • ReplySimply SonaJuly 26, 2017 at 4:46 pm

      Thank you pretty! xo

  • ReplyWajihaJuly 26, 2017 at 6:28 pm

    Thank you Sona for such an informative post, your most informative post as of yet, and yes they’ve been many. I was so shocked to know that sunscreen lasts on the skin only for 30 mins after application. All my adult life I’ve been applying it in the morning and never reapplying it again for the rest of the day.
    Things will change now!
    My fav spf is Max Sheer All Day Moisture defense lotion by Peter Thomas Roth and anything my Sun Bum too coz it smells like bananas ?.

    • ReplySimply SonaJuly 27, 2017 at 11:22 am

      I’m always happy to help! Sending all my love.

  • Replysaralrb2602July 27, 2017 at 5:50 am

    thank you son for this post, it was so informative !!! personally I use the clarins !!

    • ReplySimply SonaJuly 27, 2017 at 11:21 am

      Clarins is for sure my favorite too! :)

  • ReplyJeanine A.July 27, 2017 at 11:01 am

    This post was soooooooo helpful seriously thank you so much!!! This is why I love your blog because you’re always so informative and care about our health! I’ve been on the lookout for sunscreen to wear under makeup so I will def try out the ones you recommended! I also didn’t know what SPF actually stood for so thanks ? Always the best posts ☺️??

  • ReplyHoa NguyenJuly 27, 2017 at 11:02 am

    I’m considered this post a helpful article. I didn’t know about the percentage of protection for each spf number. my favorite sunscreen would be shiseido spf 50 and the yellow bottle from Clinique with spf 30. I can’t remember the name on top of my head right now but I live for these two in the summer.

    • ReplySimply SonaJuly 27, 2017 at 11:24 am

      It’s crazy right? I’ve never tried the Clinique sunscreen, I’ll have to check it out!

  • ReplyShubam SharmaJuly 27, 2017 at 11:36 am

    I absolutely love this post! I’m often a silent reader, but really wanted to take the time to comment here because you’ve been so helpful with posts such as these, Sona! I never used to wear SPF before (I know, yikes!), but once I heard everyone talking about it, I realized what a mistake I was making. I’m always interested in trying new sunscreens because I don’t think I’ve found my holy grail just yet. My dream sunscreen is a natural zinc oxide spray, that I could just spray on my face throughout the day! I think Sephora carries maybe one or two of those, but the reviews weren’t amazing. I think I’ll still give them a go though, because the hardest part for me is figuring out how to reapply the sunscreen over my makeup! Again, thanks for this helpful post! You look gorgeous as ever! <3 #snapfam

  • ReplyDomniki SarriJuly 27, 2017 at 12:45 pm

    Very helpful post Sona.I personally use sunscreen all year round and not only in the summer.

  • ReplySissi sampurnoJuly 27, 2017 at 3:13 pm

    Just when I thought I did it right all this time.. This is really helpful, thank you so much for making this.

    • ReplySimply SonaJuly 31, 2017 at 3:12 pm

      I’m so happy to help love!

  • ReplyAstrid LeydenJuly 27, 2017 at 4:53 pm

    I am still in search for a great sunscreen that doesn’t leave a white cast and flash back effects and break me out, and won’t leave me feeling greasy. So far I have been using Bare republic, it does have that white cast but it is not greasy, actually matifies my skin being that I’ve got combination oily skin. I’ve seen you mention about a Clarins for awhile now so I think I’ll give that a try. Informative blog, TYSM! And thank you for listing some of the good ones out there ?. #24hrclub

    • ReplySimply SonaJuly 31, 2017 at 4:53 pm

      You should definitely try the Clarins sunscreen! :)

  • ReplyDeirdreJuly 27, 2017 at 5:48 pm

    Very informative. I use Supergoop City Sunscreen Serum. It’s broad spectrum & has vitamins E & B5.

  • ReplyBeatrizJuly 28, 2017 at 5:01 am

    How do you reapply if you are wearing makeup?

  • ReplySafia QammarJuly 28, 2017 at 7:43 am

    Best blog post ever. Sona the way you elaborate everything is super amazing. I use Neutrogena Ultra Sheer one. Gonna try Clarin’s one.
    Do a blog post on best moisturizers including both drugstore and high-end.
    Xoxo
    #snapchatfam

    • ReplySimply SonaJuly 31, 2017 at 4:55 pm

      That’s a great post idea! Thank you!

  • ReplySumbul AmirJuly 28, 2017 at 7:44 am

    My most waited blog is here. Yayyyy :)
    I love you Sona. It’s very beneficial for me and for everyone.
    Xoxo.

    #TheBest #snapchatfam

  • ReplyDEBORAH PORTILLOJuly 28, 2017 at 8:15 am

    What a great post!!! Love it. I also think is extremely important to take care of our skin. I only use products with SPF for protection… and avery now and then some sunscreen, when I go to the beach for extra protection. Love you so much!!
    #snapfam!!!!

  • ReplyEmirabeautyJuly 28, 2017 at 11:50 am

    Thank you sona I learn something, I didn’t know there is two type of sunscreen, the chemical and the physical one! I think the one I use know makes me breakout I need to find a physical one. Thank u so much for your post ???

  • ReplyNatalyJuly 28, 2017 at 9:45 pm

    I personally started wearing sunscreen all the time a month ago and I feel like it has drastically made my skin better ! I use the same one you use as well!! I didn’t know a lot of the facts you said before though ! This was very helpful ❤️????

    • ReplySimply SonaJuly 31, 2017 at 3:10 pm

      Sunscreen is seriously a lifesaver!

  • ReplysassyJuly 30, 2017 at 8:54 am

    Really helpfull post Sona!! I love that Clarins spf cream but my ultimate HG spf creams are all from Dermalogica (they work amazing on my dry skin,no white cast & no clogging my pores & they are lightweight)

  • ReplySadiaJuly 31, 2017 at 2:27 am

    This is one of my favourite posts yet! I love how reading this from the start I have been able to watch your writing transition into its current amazing form. It sounds like a conversation, as if you are talking to me directly. From the language to the touches of humour and care for your subscribers, I love it!!!! Also the information on this is perfect, I didn’t know there were different types of sunscreen that either absorbed or deflected the rays.

    • ReplySimply SonaJuly 31, 2017 at 3:06 pm

      Aww, thank you!

  • ReplyMonicaAugust 1, 2017 at 2:31 pm

    Oh wow! This is such a good post about spf.. I mean so informative.. that’s amazing.. keep the content coming girl.. it’s just so nice to always learn more about skincare and spf..

  • ReplyAri NatsagdorjAugust 4, 2017 at 6:15 am

    great detailed info on sun protection, not enough people are informed on the subject. xx

  • ReplyJenn Triplett-WoodAugust 7, 2017 at 12:10 pm

    Great info! I have to stick to physical spf bc of sensitive and acne prone skin! I will have to check out some of the lil ones you recommended though bc the one I have is chemical and I sometime get a reaction around my lips from it!

  • ReplyHoly CityMarch 5, 2020 at 10:56 pm

    Hello Sir
    Thanks for sharing this wonderful blog that helps lots of people. Its very simple & easy to read.Please post some more blogs related to “Holy City Skin Products”. It will be really helpful for those girls who want to have beautiful glowing skin.
    Thanks & Regards.

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