LM AspirationsLM AspirationsWhat is SPF?
SPF or sun protection factor, is the amount of sun (UV) exposure required to produce sunburn.
The intensity of sun exposure varies throughout the day. Early morning and late evening have less intensity then midday. The midday hours, between 10am to 4pm, are key. For example the intensity of the sun at 8am will be different from the intensity at say 2pm (midday hours).
Note SPF 30 does not allow 30 hours of protection without getting sunburn. Remember those midday hours. The amount of time of sunscreen protection at 8am may not be the same as sunscreen protection at 2pm due to the intensity of sun exposure. Consider how often you reapply (some recommend every 2 hrs) and your sunscreen level.
Sunscreen levels are essential, SPF 45 would provide more sunburn protection than SPF 30.
Also, SPF levels usually refer to UVB rays, most broad spectrum sunscreens offer protection against UVB and UVA rays.
Let’s talk about ultraviolet radiation (UV) rays.
UVB rays affect our top layer of the skin (epidermis). If not protected, it can cause sunburn, wrinkling, and some skin cancers. Then there are UVA rays, these can penetrate the lower level of our skin (dermis), usually associated with tanning. Did you know that tanning is actually a sign of damage to the cells of the lower layer of skin (dermis)?
It does have positive effects on the body, like stimulating the production of vitamin D.
So let’s enjoys those sun rays safely.
Please remember to protect your skin using sunscreen, sun protective clothing, and protective eyewear.
Disclaimer: No content on this site should ever be used as a substitute for medical advice from your physician.