You know when the sun is shining in all its glory, sunscreen is the only non-negotiable business. All day, every day! Yep, this elusive magic shield surely defends our skin from those harmful UV rays while preventing fine lines, hyperpigmentation and skin cancer.
Sunscreens have been around for a long time, but their popularity has increased in recent years. As a result, different types of sun protection products have been developed by brands. From travel-friendly sunscreen sprays, sunscreen for your tresses, plus next-level formulations like makeup products infused with SPF, we have access to all. But does that get the job done without permeating the skin? Or we don’t need to apply sunscreen anymore? Let’s explore. Brace up and burn no more…
What Is A SPF-Infused Makeup Product?
SPF is present in foundations, SPF primers, tinted moisturisers, loose powders, and other products, but what precisely is SPF in makeup? As you know, SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, which is a clinical measure for determining the efficiency of any sunscreen lotion in preventing sunburn. The amount of SPF is a measure of how long someone may be exposed to UV rays before sunburn develops, and it is compared to the time it takes to burn when exposed to UV radiation without any sunscreen.
So SPF in makeup is simply a very little sunscreen that has been added to makeup formulations to help protect the skin from UV rays.
Why The SPF In Your Makeup Is Not Enough To Protect You From The Sun?
It’s amazing that your makeup products contain SPF, but let us tell you the fact (sorry for the disappointment), that it’s not enough to protect you from harsh sun rays. Don’t even think of putting an end to the step of applying sunscreen with a strong SPF, because it’s a no-win situation. Although it’s a better idea than wearing no sunscreen at all.
As we’ve said before, one full shot glass of at least SPF 30 is required to protect you from head to toe and a quarter size amount for the face.
Other Ways To Protect You From The Sun Along With Sunscreen
You need to protect your skin as much as you can. Along with a good amount of sunscreen and SPF-infused makeup products, there are a few things more you can do to keep your skin protected.
Avoid Direct Sunlight At Noon
You should spend as little time as possible in direct sunlight during the day. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the sun’s rays are the most damaging, thus avoiding them at this time will help you avoid sun damage.
Find Shade
To prevent UV rays, you don’t have to stay indoors. You can avoid the sun’s rays by lounging under an umbrella, sitting behind a tree, or relaxing in a gazebo. However, you should still apply sunscreen and dress in protective clothing.
Cover Yourself With Cotton Clothing
It may be annoying at first, but wearing full clothes will only protect your skin from UV rays. Long-sleeved shirts and a pair of cotton pants will save your skin from sunburn. Simple accessories such as sunglasses and hats might also help.
To conclude, your makeup or day cream may not be made to shield you from UVA and UVB rays if it is not broad-spectrum. A sunscreen bottle also contains physical and chemical blockers that deflect light, something your day cream is unlikely to have. So, if you want to use SPF-infused products to touch up your skin when outdoors, you’re doing your skin a solid favour.
Sunscreen is the purest form of love for your skin!
Featured Image: Pexels
