Making Sense of Sun Protection Products | What is SPF?

You want to spend a fabulous day out on the beach in your beautiful swimwear, but you don't want to get burned.  Do you get confused looking at all those products made to help protect you from the sun's harmful rays?  Well, it's not easy and plenty confusing with all those choices out on the skincare aisle.  I can go on and on about this subject such as the different ingredients, spray, lotion, UVA, UVB, etc..

Today, we begin the first part of a blog series to help you make sense of it all. Before we can even talk about SPF, we need to know what UVA/UVB is. UVA and UVB are the types of ultraviolet rays that come from the sun. UVA rays are the type that go deep into your skin and contribute to aging ("A" for aging!). UVB rays are the ones that give you a sunburn when you get too much ("B" for burn!).

You got it! Now let's move on to SPF and what number to pick. SPF is short for sun protection factor. This is a measurement of how well a sunscreen can protect you from a burn. Yes, this is ONLY a measurement of UVB ray protection, so that is why when selecting a product it is critical to make sure it says "UVA/UVB protection" OR "broad spectrum coverage" on there.

So what does the SPF measurement mean for you? Multiplying the SPF number by 10 will tell you how long you can be safe in the sun in an ideal or perfect situation before burning. "Ideal" means no sweating or water involved here, which is not realistic. 

Example: SPF 20 x 10 = 200 minutes of sun protection

So how high of an SPF is necessary? The fairer or more sensitive your skin the higher the better. Everyone should use at least a minimum SPF of 30.  I prefer higher because there is no perfect situation in real life and there is no reversal once the damage is done. I'd rather see everyone have fun for a greater span over the course of their lives. Sunscreen will still allow you to get color while out in the sun. Do not be mislead. Always reapply and use liberally.

I hope this has helped you understand SPF better and will help you stay safe in the sun especially on days that you venture out in your bikini.

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