With summer officially beginning, the temperature and UV rays are working overtime to create those lovely sunny days we love to partake in! While most of us would love to lay out in the rays from sun up to sun down relaxing and soaking in all the warmth, sometimes we get so caught up in all of the exciting activities that we forget the most important one: lathering up with sunscreen! We know, it’s something you’ve been hearing since you were a kid, but it was true then and it’s true now! No matter what age you are, high-SPF sunscreen is a vital part of protecting yourself against those harmful UV rays that are ever-present and intense, especially in the summer.
What is SPF?
SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, is the measured amount of the protection against the UV rays in the sun. The higher the SPF, the more protection. For example, an SPF 30 means it will take you 30 times longer to burn than it would if you had no SPF on at all. That being said, burning is still possible, and it is important to reapply throughout the day to ensure continuous protection. Also keep in mind that there is NO SPF amount that is 100% protective against UV rays. SPF 50 and above blocks approximately 98% of the harmful UV rays, and is therefore recommended in the spring and summer months when the UV index is highest here in the United States.
How to Choose the Right SPF
When choosing your SPF, it is important to look at the different types. The biggest distinction to make is a chemical vs a physical SPF. Chemical sunscreens absorb into the skin, turn UV rays into heat, and then release the heat form the skin. These are typically lighter on the skin and better for everyday use. Since they absorb into the skin, makeup and other products can more easily be layered over the top of it. However, it may irritate sensitive skin, and the active ingredients may cause an allergic reaction in some people. On the other and, physical sunscreens sit on top of the skin and reflect UV rays from penetrating into the skin. These sunscreens have active ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide which are less irritating on sensitive or acne-prone skin. Physical sunscreens are effective immediately after application since they need no absorption time. These typically feel a bit “heavier” on the skin since they do not absorb but rather sit on top, which also makes it difficult to layer other products on top of it. It also may potentially leave a white-cast, especially on darker skin tones.
SPF vs. Moisturizer with SPF
It is also important to make the distinction between SPF and moisturizer with SPF in it. While both include SPF, they are not the same and do not offer the same protection. Moisturizer with SPF in it is a nice step in your daily skincare routine, as some SPF is better than none. However, on days you are planning to be out in the sun for more than a few minutes at a time, or during summer months where the UV index is very high almost every day, that may not be enough. Pure SPF has the sole purpose of blocking the UV rays, so it typically has a higher level of SPF and is water / sweat resistant, designed for re-application throughout the day to ensure adequate protection, and comes in different forms (gel, spray, lotion, etc) dependent on what is most convenient for you. Moisturizer with SPF is great for going in to the office or even daily use in the winter months, but in summer you’re going to want a full-functioning SPF with 50 or higher protection factor. There’s also no harm in doubling up and using both!
Summer Skincare Tips
Some other important steps for summer skincare include: focusing on hydrating products, such as hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, and gel based moisturizers; double cleansing with a gentle cleanser to get rid of sunscreen and makeup left on the skin; and wearing lightweight makeup, opting for oil-feee primers and tinted SPF instead of foundation. It is also recommended to stick to hydrating facials, oxygen facials, and light chemical peels in the summer for facial maintenance. These facials typically have less downtime and do not prohibit you from going into the sun (as long as you apply an SPF of 50 or more!).
The dermani MEDSPA® Difference
At dermani MEDSPA®, we employ licensed estheticians that are trained professionally through both esthetics schools as well as continuous education upon hiring. These skincare professionals can help point you in the best direction as you navigate your summer skincare journey, whether it be recommending facials, different SPFs, or daily lifestyle tips you can use to keep your skin glowing as bright as that summer sun! Book your free consultation at your nearest dermani MEDSPA® location with one of our licensed professionals today!
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