The light of the sun warms our bodies, gives us energy and lifts our moods and spirits. But the UVA and UVB rays the sun gives off are the enemies in the battle against skin damage and aging. It is estimated that 95% of the UV rays that reach the earth are UVA rays. UVA rays are responsible for premature aging and wrinkle formation. They can penetrate cloud cover, light clothing and un-tinted glass.

Over exposure to UVB rays causes sunburn, changes the connective tissue and weakens the immune system. Transmission of UVB peaks when the sun is high in the sky, traditionally between the hours of 10 AM and 2 PM. Both UVB and UVA have been linked to the production of cancer, so protecting the skin from these harmful rays is essential for good health.

Dermatologists and scientists throughout the world agree that the daily use of at least an SPF 15 broad-spectrum sunscreen will help diminish damage to the skin. Sunscreen products contain ingredients that absorb, reflect and scatter UV radiation before it can penetrate into the skin and damage key components such as DNA, collagen and elastin.

Regarding SPF

Most people don’t realize that sun protection factors are not linear. For example, SPF 30 does not block twice as much UV as SPF 15. In reality, SPF 30 blocks 97% of UV, while SPF 15 blocks 93%. An SPF 50 blocks 98%.

Layering several products with different SPF ratings does not increase protection. You are only protected to the extent of the highest rating of one of the products. Applying a moisturizer with an SPF of 15, foundation with an SPF of 10 and a sunscreen with an SPF of 20 does not yield an SPF rating of 45.

Most people do not apply sufficient amounts of sunscreen. It is recommended that 2mg, approximately enough to fill a shot glass, is the proper amount to cover the entire body. Applying two layers of sunscreen assures more even, continuous coverage, and it more than doubles the SPF on the skin. In addition, sunscreen should be reapplied at least every two hours.

The Myth of Day Creams with SPF

The active ingredients in chemical sunscreens burn off quickly. When applied to the body, the active SPF ingredients are broken down by the natural acids in our skin and once exposed to UV rays, the SPF is no longer effective within 90-120 minutes.

So even if you are applying your day cream with SPF as late as 8AM, you are no longer wearing any sun protection by 11AM. You are basically applying unnecessary chemicals to the skin that will be inactive by the time you need the protection. Similarly, a higher SPF gives a false sense of security and introduces more potentially harmful chemicals to the body.

Sun protection should be addressed independently from your morning moisturizer. I recommend a quality mineral makeup or mineral powder with an SPF of 20 or 30 for daily sun protection. Mineral sunscreens outlast chemical sunscreens and deflect UV rays and heat as opposed to absorbing them into the skin. As long as you do not wipe the minerals off, you are protected.

On outdoor activity days, I recommend re-applying sunscreen with an SPF of 30 as well as wearing a hat and sunglasses.

SPF ratings, soon to be revised by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), are misleading and product marketing experts in the beauty industry prey on under informed consumers. Get the facts. Protect your skin!