Reading a package of sunscreen

Do you use sunscreen? Excellent. Then you will be interested to know how one sunscreen differs from another and which one is right for you. To do this, you need to understand what is written on the package. Let’s figure it out together.

What is SPF

The numbers next to the abbreviation SPF indicate the degree of protection against short UVB rayscausing burns.

  • SPF 30 blocks approximately 97% of type B UV;

  • SPF 50 – 97-98% UVB rays;

  • SPF 100 — about 99%.

The maximum index often misleads consumers, people think that they are 100% protected, and begin to behave frivolously.

What does Broad Spectrum or A in a circle mean?

When sunscreen provides skin protection from both short UVB rays and long UVA rays, the label appears on the package Broad Spectrum (USA) or And in a circle (Europe).

Recall that type B rays cause burns and are responsible for sunburn, while A-rays are responsible for premature skin aging.

Therefore, an SPF product bearing this label provides comprehensive protection and is an excellent prevention of wrinkles, age spots and dehydration.

On some sunscreens, the level of protection against UVA radiation is indicated by the abbreviation PPD. Details are in this article.

Ultralight facial fluid Anthelios XL SPF 50+, La Roche-Posay provides very high protection against both types of rays thanks to the special Mexoplex solar filter system.

Find out which sunscreen is right for you to protect yourself from the sun in the city by answering our quiz.

What is the durability of a product labeled Water-resistant

Translated from english water-resistant means “waterproof” (“water resistant”). Also on the packaging you can find the inscription very water-resistant – “very water-resistant”. What exactly is meant? A cream that can withstand 2 baths of 20 minutes is considered waterproof. Of course, if you did not dry yourself with a towel. A very waterproof product is called a product that can withstand 4 baths for 20 minutes.

It is important to remember that:

  • There are no completely waterproof sunscreens;

  • any sunscreen is recommended to be renewed after each bath, especially if you dried yourself with a towel;

  • waterproof products are designed to protect the skin not after swimming, but while in water, which enhances the action of sunlight, like a magnifying glass.

  • Anthelios XL Wet Sun Gel, SPF 50+, La Roche-Posay belongs to the category of very waterproof products. What’s more, thanks to a special technology based on silicone copolymers, it can be applied directly to damp skin immediately after bathing.

  • Solar Water Clear Protective Spray, SPF 30, Garnier – Bi-phase treatment with aloe vera is lightweight and water resistant.

What the words Baby and Children say on the label

If you see the word baby или baby on the package, then you have a sunscreen addressed to you children aged 6 months to 3 years. Often such products are based on physical filters – titanium dioxide and / or zinc oxide. In any case, cosmetics for babies are created taking into account the sensitivity and vulnerability of children’s skin.

Inscription Children (Children) indicates that the product is suitable for children, starting at the age of three. These formulas always have a maximum SPF, meet the needs of sensitive skin, and are usually comfortable in texture and water resistant.

Dermatologists categorically do not recommend exposing children under three months of age to any kind of insolation!

  • Milk for babies and children Anthelios, SPF 50+, La Roche-Posay provides a high degree of protection against possible burns and other manifestations of a negative reaction to ultraviolet radiation.

  • Children’s sunscreen “Kid in the shade”, SPF 50+, Garnier includes physical and chemical solar filters. Does not contain dyes and fragrances.

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