Why every day?
UVA rays pass through clouds and windows. They contribute to skin aging (loss of firmness, wrinkles, dark spots), even when it isn’t warm. UVB rays, for their part, cause sunburn. Daily protection is the most effective step to look after your skin in the long run, and the one dermatologists recommend first.
Choosing well
- Broad spectrum: protection against both UVA and UVB. In Europe, the UVA logo inside a circle shows it.
- SPF 30 at the very least, and SPF 50 if you spend time outdoors, if your skin marks easily or if you have dark spots.
- A texture you like, because it’s the one you’ll actually use: a fluid for oily skin, a cream for dry skin, a tinted one to even out your complexion.
- Mineral or organic filters: both protect. Mineral filters are often better suited to very reactive skin, but can leave a slight white cast.
The right amount
To get the protection stated on the label, you need about two milligrams of product per square centimeter of skin. In practice, use two finger-lengths of cream for the face and neck. If you apply less, the real protection drops significantly.
The right habits
- Apply it last in the morning, after your moisturizer.
- Don’t forget your ears, neck, nape and the backs of your hands.
- Reapply every two hours outdoors, and after swimming or heavy sweating.
- Add sunglasses, a hat and shade during the hottest hours.
- For touch-ups over makeup, a sunscreen stick or mist can help out.
Common myths
- “With SPF, I won’t tan anymore”: you tan more slowly, and your skin is better protected.
- “My SPF 15 day cream is enough”: it’s better than nothing for a trip across town, but not enough if you spend time outdoors.
- “Darker skin doesn’t need it”: it burns less easily, but is still exposed to dark spots and UV-related aging.
And vitamin D?
Short, regular exposure of your arms or legs is generally enough. If you have any doubt about a deficiency, talk to your doctor rather than giving up on protecting your face.
