Hello Beauty,
A common question we receive (especially at the start of Summer) is: “How much SPF do I really need?”
Some may think that the higher the SPF, the better the product. In our explorations, this is not necessarily the case. Let us explain...
What is SPF?
SPF, which stands for Sun Protection Factor, is a measure of how long a sunscreen will protect your skin from UVA and UVB rays.
What is UV?
According to SkinCancer.Org:
- Ultraviolet A (UVA) has a longer wavelength, and is associated with skin aging.
- Ultraviolet B (UVB) has a shorter wavelength and is associated with skin burning.
How much SPF do I need?
Studies have shown that SPF 30 protects against 97% of UVB rays (allowing 3% through), while SPF 50 shields about 98% (allowing 2% through).
With such a minimal difference in protection, the biological need for UVB on the skin to create Vitamin D, and our desire for elegant wear with or without makeup, we feel SPF 30 offers ideal sun care.
Resources
- In this article, Dr. Steven Q. Wang discusses how much SPF is necessary for proper protection.
“Products with very high SPFs often create a false sense of security. People who use them tend to stay out in the sun much longer. They may skip reapplying. And they may think they don’t need to seek shade, wear a hat or cover up with clothing. They end up getting a lot more UV damage, which, of course, defeats the purpose.” - Another great article from Harvard University addresses the importance of Vitamin D and the lifestyle factors that can impact your production of this essential vitamin.
“Your body makes vitamin D when sunlight hits the skin...It starts when the skin absorbs rays in the invisible ultraviolet B (UVB) part of the light spectrum.”
An SPF for Glowing Skin
Our Pot of Shade: Heliotropic is a Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB SPF 30. The unique zinc-only formula applies as a translucent veil and offers you protection from both UVA and UVB rays. Because the formula does not block all UV rays, UVB is still able to kiss your skin for Vitamin D production.
If you have additional questions about how to include Pot of Shade: Heliotropic in your sun care routine, please email us at care@kyprisbeauty.com.
Happy Sunning Gorgeous!
