In choosing a sunscreen or sunblock, always look for the SPF level. This is the key factor for ultraviolet (UV) protection. Generally, SPF is the measure of the sunblock's effectiveness. This would mean that the higher the grade or level, the more protection a sunblock provides against UV rays. It should be able to shield the skin from UVA and UVB, or broad spectrum. SPF also indicates the period of time in which a person can be protected under the sun.
SPF protection depend on many factors. These include the skin type, amount of sunblock the skin absorbs, amount of sunscreen applied and the frequency of reapplication, and activities engaged in. Take note that the skin can be damage even without having a sunburn. In fact, such damage can be invisible and often result to skin aging. Invisible damages is caused by UVA, while sunburn is from UVB.Skin Type and Its SPF Level
Very Fair : Skin Type I : Burns easily and never tans : SPF 30-70
Fair : Skin Type II : Burns easily and tans a little bit : SPF 30-70
Light : Skin Type III : Burns moderately and tans : SPF 15-45
Medium : Skin Type IV : Burns minimally and tans well : SPF 6-15
Dark : Skin Type V : Rarely burns and tans readily : SPF 2-25
Black/Very Dark : Skin Type VI : Never burns, just deeply pigmented : SPF 2-15
Take note that ordinary sunblocks don't block every UV light. You are the best judge of your skin type in getting the proper sunscreen. Always look into the product's ingredients, not just the label. Even if the label says "broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection, “ it does not guarantee full sun protection. Remember that it is important to block such radiations especially UVA, which damages skin cells deeply. Always look for zinc oxide, avobenzone and mexoryl in sunblock products. Such ingredients are best against UVA.
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