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We’re all aware that SPF is an important component in protecting our skin, but many are lost when it comes to knowing the basics of sun protection. And, with summer right around the corner, we believe there’s no better time to learn!

For starters, SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, and refers to the ability of a sunscreen to block ultraviolet (UV) radiation. There are two types of UV rays: UVA and UVB, which both cause damage to the skin, age it prematurely, and increase your risk of skin cancer. The SPF in sunscreen is the driving force behind protecting your skin: the higher the SPF, the less likely you are to damage your skin.

A common misconception is that only prolonged sun exposure can lead to skin damage. What many fail to recognize is just how often the sun hits our skin. Think about your morning commute, after stroll, or evening jog — chances are, your skin is getting hit with rays and you don’t even realize it. And, if left unprotected these small bursts of exposure can have some serious consequences. Here are the answers to some commonly asked questions about summer skin care:

What level of SPF is right for me? There isn’t a straight answer for this one, as it all depends on your skin. An SPF 15 sunscreen protects your skin from 93-percent of UVB rays, while SPF 30 keeps out about 97-percent and SPF 50 keeps out 98-percent. It may not seem like huge differences, but for those who are light-sensitive or have a history of skin cancer, those extra percentages can make a huge difference. Just remember, regardless of your SPF level it’s always important to reapply sunscreen every four-to-five hours.

What’s the difference between UVA and UVB radiation? UVB is the main culprit behind sunburn, while UVA rays, which dig deeper into the skin, cause wrinkles, sagging, and other light-induced effects of aging. UVA rays also worsen the carcinogenic effects of UVB rays, and many are believing them to be a cause of skin cancer on their own.

How can I protect myself all day long? The easiest way to keep your skin protected is to choose a makeup that already has SPF in it. Several cosmetics add SPF to their foundation, bronzer, and occasionally to blush. You can find it in anything from drug store to high end brands, just look for the SPF tag on the packaging. 

Photo courtesy of Gvic – via Flickr