The Importance of SPF

When it comes to SPF there is a “broad spectrum” of options out there. But what does it all mean and which is best suited to you? Keep reading to understand a little more about the importance of SPF.


As I am writing this blog I have the sun beaming on my face. This May has been pretty cold and gloomy okay but I am enjoying these few hours of sun in the morning. As we get into the summer months it seems like it makes sense to talk about SPF. But SPF is important to wear through all the seasons as well.

WHAT DOES SPF MEAN?

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. SPF is a measure of how effectively a sunscreen protects your skin from burning. But the higher the number of SPF doesn’t mean that you are going to be more protected.


An SPF 15 sunscreen blocks 93% of UVB radiation, and SPF 30 blocks 97%. After that, the difference in protection is small. SPF 50 blocks 98%, and SPF 100 stops 99% of UVB rays from reaching your skin.

- Saira George, M.D., a dermatologist at MD Anderson in Sugar Land.


What the number of SPF truly tells us is how often we need to be reapplying our sunscreen, the lower the number of SPF, the more often you should reapply.

CHEMICAL VS. PHYSICAL SUNSCREEN

When it comes to SPF there are two types. Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing UV rays and convert them to heat which is then released by your skin. A physical sunscreen blocks the sunlight and creates a barrier that reflects UV rays away from the skin. 

WHY IS BROAD SPECTRUM SUNSCREEN IMPORTANT?

When it comes to SPF there are two types. Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing UV rays and convert them to heat which is then released by your skin. A physical sunscreen blocks the sunlight and creates a barrier that reflects UV rays away from the skin. 

WHY IS SUNSCREEN IMPORTANT FOR YOUR SKIN?

  • Protects skin from getting burnt
  • Reduces your risk of skin cancer
  • Fights signs of aging
  • Protects against damage to elastin and collagen
  • Keeps your complexion even

Here are some options we carry for SPF and some reviews from our website about these products!

Sale Off
Dermalogica Prisma Protect SPF30
$96.00

Light-activated multitasking moisturizer provides broad spectrum defense while preventing future signs of skin damage. Intelligent drone technology is activated by visible light to help boost skin’s natural luminosity.


Perfect everyday moisturizer

Jessica on Mar 03, 2021

I love that there’s an SPF built right into this moisturizer so I don’t have an extra step in the morning. Keeps me moisturized all day and protects me from the sun. A win, win!

Sale Off
Dermalogica Age Smart Dynamic Skin 50ml
$109.00

Broad Spectrum moisturizer helps combat the appearance of skin aging. Help minimize the appearance of skin aging with this medium-weight, emollient daily moisturizer with Broad Spectrum SPF 50. Antioxidant White Tea, rich in polyphenols, and a unique polypeptide help improve the appearance of photoaged skin. Active sunscreens protect against UVA and UVB rays. Blends smoothly over skin for a perfect finish.


BEST

Alicia on Jul 30, 2019

You can’t go wrong with a moisturizer and spf all in one. Dynamic skin is great for hydration as well as protection from the sun (only when it’s causing lines!