Surely you have all seen the SPF initials alongside sun creams or moisturisers. But... what does SPF mean? And what about the number that goes with it? How do I choose the right SPF for my skin? We answer these and more questions in today’s post.
The SPF initials that accompany many cosmetics mean Sun Protection Factor. But the importance is not only there; it is also in the number that appears next to these letters.
The most common thing is to find creams and oils with SPF 15, SPF 30, SPF 50+ or even SPF 100. The latter is aimed at sensitive skin prone to allergies or for application to specific areas with scars or greater sensitivity.
And now you may be wondering... so does SPF 50 protect more than SPF 30? Although many of you may think so, we explain why you are wrong.
Types of SPF
As we have just mentioned, there are different types of SPF. However, the number does not determine the degree of protection.
What it does determine is the time during which our skin is protected from solar radiation.
In the video at the beginning of the post I explain it in detail, but for those of you who have not seen it yet, I will summarise it quickly. The number (15, 30, 50...) refers to time.
In other words, if we apply sun cream with SPF 15, we will be protected for 15 minutes.
Whereas if we use cream with SPF 50, 50 minutes. What happens? What we need to do is reapply the cream depending on the SPF we have chosen and the time we are going to be exposed to the sun.
That is why our recommendation is always SPF 50+. Why do we recommend this? Because normally, when we are at the beach or the swimming pool, with friends, reading, walking or bathing, we tend to lose track of time and often do not know how long it has been since we last applied the cream.
And what does this translate into? Sunburn, irritation, dark spots, premature photoageing of the skin, loss of elasticity, sagging...
Sunscreens for each type of SPF
We repeat it again: our recommendation will always be SPF 50+, but for those of you with phototype V or phototype VI, meaning your skin tone is dark and you do not commonly burn, you can go down to SPF 30 or SPF 15.
For those of you with a fairer complexion who tend to burn, SPF 50+ and that is that!
Lierac Sunissime Body Lotion SPF 15
Featured products
For the more daring, this Lierac body lotion with SPF 15 protection has an anti-ageing action that protects and repairs sun damage.
It also helps combat the appearance of wrinkles, dark spots and sagging caused by sun exposure, while offering intense hydration.
Do you want to know more about this SPF 15 lotion? Click here.
Avène Protection Sun Mist SPF 30
With an oil texture and a non-sticky finish, this sun mist with SPF 30 protection against UVB-UVA radiation hydrates and tans the skin in depth at the same time.
It also protects against free radicals and leaves a silky finish on the skin, allowing it to be applied to the face and body. Everything you need to know about Avène Protección Bruma Solar SPF 30 by clicking here.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL Spray SPF 50+
Another option is this cream in spray format from the Anthelios range by La Roche-Posay. It offers SPF 50+ protection for skin that is even intolerant to the sun.
It soothes and protects the skin from irritation caused by the sun and its high SPF 50+ means that we are protected for longer.
On the website you can find a wide selection of La Roche-Posay sun products for little ones and adults, in different formats. Full information about La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL Spray SPF 50+ in this link.
Heliocare Ultra SPF 90
And for those with allergies, sun sensitivity or scars, this cream by Heliocare with SPF 90 protection, acts as a total screen, protecting the skin from solar radiation.
Its soft texture provides comfort to the skin without leaving that heavy feeling and it also leaves no white residue or mask effect.
Perfect for use on the face or on specific areas of the body. Product sheet for Heliocare Ultra SPF 90 available here. Now you know the meaning hidden behind the SPF initials and what each number means.
Which sunscreen will you choose? If you have any questions, write to us and we will advise you on the type of sun filter that best suits your skin and needs. And do not forget protection!
