SPF stands for “sun protection factor”. It relates to your sunscreen’s ability to protect skin against UVB rays which cause burning. The higher the number, the greater the protection. When in the sun, you are recommended to apply a minimum of SPF 30 every 2 hours. A golfball-sized amount is required for the whole body.
Sun exposure puts you at risk of sunburn, as well as the long-term dangers of premature ageing and skin cancer. To stay safe in the sun, seek shade between 11 am and 3 pm, wear a hat, protective clothing and sunglasses. In addition to these measures, generously apply broad-spectrum UVA-UVB sunscreen every 2 hours to any area of exposed skin.
Some sunscreens can cause unpleasant stinging sensations on sensitive skin. Opt for broad-spectrum UVA-UVB protection that is tested on the most sensitive skin, such as the ANTHELIOS range from the sensitive skin specialist brand La Roche-Posay. All ANTHELIOS products integrate naturally anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water to soothe sensitive skin.
To avoid premature ageing or skin cancer, it is important to use daily facial sunscreen. This is all the more important if you are pregnant or using the oral contraceptive pill, as this puts you at risk of “pregnancy mask.” Choose a texture that best suits your skin such as a comfort cream for dry skin, a non-comedogenic gel for oily skin or a fresh mist if you like rubbing cream in.
Dermatologists recommend wearing hats, sunglasses and protective clothing as well as seeking shade when the sun is at its strongest. But sunscreen is at the core of sun protection strategies and cannot be omitted from your routine. ANTHELIOS sunscreens undergo rigorous testing on even the most sensitive skin to ensure total safety.
The most serious form of skin cancer, melanoma, is one of the most common types of cancer among young people, with women under 30 being particularly affected. The good news is that most skin cancer cases are completely preventable thanks to adequate sun protection in the form of protective clothing, smart sun-behaviours and the right sunscreen.
The following sections offer an overview of key concepts in sun protection: How does sun protection work and why is it so important, and how can you be sure you and your family’s skin is safe?
You will also learn top tips on skin cancer prevention and guidance on using the ABCDE method to screen your and your loved ones’ moles.
Plus you’ll find some specific articles on cases of particular sensitivity to the sun, such as sun allergies or damaged skin, as well as pigmentation problems such as melasma (pregnancy mask).
Finally, we also address concerns regarding sun protection and product safety – how safe is your sunscreen for both you and the environment?
90% of skin cancers are curable, if detected early*. Become a Skin Checker and monitor your and your loved ones’ moles.
* https://www.euromelanoma.org/intl/node/25 epidemiological fact sheet
Safety standards beyond international cosmetics regulations.
