Is your sunscreen actually protecting your skin?
There is an alarming increase in the rate of skin cancer as consumers are turning to high SPF products and are lulled into a false sense of security thinking that their skin is bulletproof to all solar damage. SPF only protects you from UVB rays, the rays that give you a sunburn. But what about the dangerous UVA rays? UVA rays are known as the sun’s silent killers, because you can’t feel them affecting your skin.
Look for broad spectrum cover that will fight both UVA and UVB rays. NEVER rely on SPF levels alone.
What’s the difference between SPF, 15, 30 AND 50+?
The difference between SPF levels are much smaller than people realise. Most consumers believe that SPF 30 offers TWICE the level of UVB protection than SPF 15. This is a myth! In fact, the difference in UVB protection between SPF 15 and 30 is only an additional 3.4%. Further still, the difference between SPF 30 and SPF 50+ is only 1.6% more UVB protection!
Whats the difference between SPF and PA+?
Understanding sunscreen labels can be confusing. Put simply, SPF measures UVB, whereas the PA+ rating measures UVA. SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, and measure how long a product gives you protection from burning UVB rays. Remember ‘B’ is for burning. PA+ labels are a rating system to measure how much protection a product gives you against skin ageing UVA rays. Remember ‘A’ for ageing.
PA+ = Some UVA protection.
PA++ = Moderate UVA protection.
PA+++ = High UVA protection.
PA++++ = Extremely High UVA protection.
Physical or Chemical Sunscreen
When it comes to chemical or physical sunscreen, understanding which is best for you can be complicated. The formulation of chemical sunscreens can have ‘questionable ingredients’ which are chemical additives that can be harmful to cells when allowed to accumulate over time. Chemical sunscreens have been linked to photosensitivity, skin irritation and may possibly influence hormone levels with long-term use. So what about physical sunscreen? The benefits of physical sunscreen include protection from both UVA and UVB rays and does not absorption into bloodstream. Potent anti-inflammatory and healing properties have been found in zinc oxide and the antimicrobial properties of zinc oxide lessens the severity of acne lesions, reducing excess oil and acne bacteria, baby safe and well as environmentally friendly.
How much will UberZinc protect your skin?
ÜberZinc (SPF 15 and PA+++) will protect from 93.3% of UVB rays, offering only 3.4% less protection from burning rays (UVB) than an SPF 30 sunscreen. It’s a luxe moisturiser with built-in UVA and UVB protection and is considered as many clients go-to daily moisturiser for everyday protection and hydration.
Remember, zinc oxide also protects you from UVA rays that penetrate windows, so it’s ideal for weekday and office wear. It’s also an excellent anti-irritant ingredient so it’s awesome for sensitive skin.
Is UberZinc safe for babies or children?
ÜberZinc contains the hero ingredient zinc oxide. Zinc oxide is fantastic for calming irritated and sensitive skin, so when it comes to overall skin protection for your kids, think zinc!