SPF is The One Product You Shouldn’t Skip

As someone who is invested in making sure my skin is thriving, I take SPF very seriously. If you could only use one product for healthier skin, it should be SPF. Our skin is our shield from the outside world, so it’s vital to protect it from sun damage. But with all the different terms, it can get confusing. Here are some quick answers to your SPF questions.

What’s the deal with SPF?

SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, measures how well a sunscreen protects your skin from UVB rays, the ones that cause sunburn and can contribute to skin cancer. The higher the number, the more protection you get.

Do I need protection from UVA rays, too?

Yes! You want a sunscreen that says “broad-spectrum” on the label. This means it protects against both UVB and UVA rays. UVA rays are a bit sneakier—they penetrate deeper into the skin, causing premature aging and other damage. Unlike UVB rays, they can even pass through glass, so you’re exposed to them indoors and in your car.

How often should I reapply?

Sunscreen’s protection wears off over time, so you need to reapply it every two hours. Reapply more often if you’re sweating or swimming to make sure you’re always protected.

“But it’s not sunny outside!” This is a common misconception! Damaging UV rays are present every day, even on cloudy days and indoors. That’s why making sunscreen a part of your daily routine is so important.