We know we must protect ourselves from the sun, but when we are faced with the display of sunscreen, how to make the best choice among all the promises written on the labels.
FPS
Firstly, on each label are always found FPS letters followed by a number. The SPF is the Sun Protection Factor us indicating the period during which our skin is protected from UVB rays before the appearance of redness minimum. These are the main responsible for UVB sunburn.
The figure at his side indicates the time of protection before blushing. For example, an SPF 15 product means that theoretically, it will take 15 times longer to get a sunburn without sunscreen. This means that if the skin begins to redden Junior after 16 minutes without sunscreen, with this product, it would be good to stay 15 times 16 minutes on the beach so 4 hours before catching a sunburn!
Put on this ointment is not!
Oh! Do not rejoice too quickly! This is fine in theory but in practice many factors will vary the time of protection. Bathing, perspiration, sand, rubbing with the towel will decrease significantly.
Did you know that according to some studies, most people use a quantity of less than that used in the laboratory tests? For this reason, some dermatologists say the real FPS would not be a third of the SPF stated on the bottle! In fact, it is recommended for the average person to apply at least 30 ml (equivalent to a shooter) of sunscreen, a quarter of a bottle of 125 ml!
UVB, UVA
The SPF tells us the level of UVB protection only. It is important not to forget the UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and resulting premature aging while promoting as UVB development of skin cancer.
So, for complete protection UVA and UVB rays, it is important to find on the label the words "broad spectrum"
Attention to the term "sunblock" or "total protection". Several countries have banned the mention on the labels of sunscreen because no one can block 100% of UV rays, regardless of the FPS used.
For a few months, you can find on our shelves sunscreens with an SPF of 70, 85, even to an index of 100! It may seem logical to think that a product with an SPF of 30 will double protection against UV SPF 15. You probably say that it was time that kind on the market an SPF of 100. Well, you may be surprised to learn that it does not give the desired results at all! In fact, here is some data:
- An SPF-15 blocks about 93% of UVB
- An SPF-30 blocks about 97% of UVB
- An SPF-60 blocks about 98% of UVB
- An SPF-70 blocks approximately 98.3% of UVB
Surprising is not it? There is evidence that the use of a high SPF gives a false sense of security. Thus, repeated application less frequently or not at all during the day.
The advice of the pharmacist
- Use an SPF between 30 and 60, broad spectrum and water repellent on the skin not to mention her lips. For babies under 6 months, it is recommended to use a sunscreen.
- Always look for the symbol of the Canadian Dermatology Association on the bottle.
- Choose creams gels and sprays. The gels adhere less well to the skin and are less resistant to water and sweat while sprays make it difficult to apply evenly.
- Apply the cream liberally 30 minutes before exposure, regardless of the FPS used, repeat the application every 2 to 3 hours, immediately after swimming or excessive sweating.
- Beware of clouds, wind and water, giving the impression that the sun does not shine its spotlight!
- Take your hats, sunglasses, seek shade and hydrated.
- Oh, I forgot ... have fun!
Good summer ... well protected!
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