Protector solar: guía completa para encontrar el mejor para ti

You may have heard some in recent months Conspiracy theories about photoprotection: If skin cancer is not caused by the sun but by chemicals in cosmetics, if sunscreens are toxic or block the absorption of vitamin D, if there are natural alternatives that are equally effective… At La Española, we promote healthy living habits, so We join health experts to debunk scams, explain how sunscreen works, and explain which sunscreen to choose based on your skin and daily habits..

What is sunscreen?

Sunscreen is a specially formulated cosmetic product protect skin Ultraviolet (UV) radiation Emitted by the sun. This radiation is mainly divided into two types: rays UVAwhich penetrates into the deepest layers of the skin and is behind premature aging and certain types of skin cancer; and light UVBmore superficial, are responsible for sunburn and are also involved in the development of melanoma.

Why use sunscreen?

The most obvious reason is Prevent sunburn. But the underlying reasons go far beyond immediate aesthetics:

• Use sunscreen consistently Significantly reduces the risk of skin cancerincluding melanoma, one of the most aggressive tumors. Did you know that, according to the Spanish Society Against Cancer, more than 6,800 new cases of this disease are discovered every year? The good news is that this is one of the most preventable cancers with simple habits, and sunscreen is one of them.
• Ultraviolet radiation is the main cause of this phenomenon premature skin agingdermatologists call it photoaging. Wrinkles, spots, loss of firmness…according to dermatological studies, up to 80% of visible skin aging is caused by sunlight. So if you invest in an anti-aging serum but ignore sunscreen, you’re building castles in the air.
• Protecting skin from the sun can help maintain an even tone Prevents the appearance of hyperpigmentation, melasma and sun spotsThis is especially important for those who are already predisposed or are using active ingredients such as vitamin C, retinoids, or AHAs, which can increase the skin’s photosensitivity.

Ah! And to be clear, Using sunscreen does not hinder vitamin D absorption. Even with sunscreen, the UVB rays that penetrate the skin are enough to synthesize it. And, no matter what, eating foods containing this vitamin or supplement is always better than getting skin cancer, don’t you think?

Types of sunscreen

Now, not all sunscreens are created equal. The right choice makes the difference between true protection and a false sense of protection.

Protection level

so, Depends on protection typewe can talk about two types of sunscreen:

• With UVB protection: It is a measure of the SPF index (we will see later what these abbreviations are) and the protection against visible burns. This is the most famous, but not the only important one.
• Has broad spectrum protection: That is, this sunscreen covers both UVB and UVA rays. To verify this, look at the packaging “UVA” symbol inside a circle. In this case, UVA protection is guaranteed to be at least one third of the declared SPF value according to European standards. Some sunscreens go a step further and include ingredients that target Visible light and infrared lightespecially associated with melasma or hyperpigmented skin.

Photoprotective composition

Additionally, photoprotectants work in two different ways. according to its ingredientsalthough many current products combine both types to provide more complete protection:

• with chemical filter (also called organic filters): They capture UV radiation and convert it into body-harmless heat.
• With physical or mineral filter (e.g. zinc oxide or titanium dioxide): They are natural alternatives to the above substances and act as a barrier, reflecting and diffusing light before it penetrates the skin.

sunscreen form

at last, depends on formatthere are many varieties, and the ideal choice depends more on your preference or usage environment:

• Cream or lotion: This is the most classic and widespread format. Ideal for dry or normal skin as it generally has a more nourishing texture, you can use it on the body as well as a specific version on the face.
• gel or liquid: Light texture and fast absorption, ideal for oily or combination skin who don’t want sticky feeling.
• spray: Feels comfortable when reapplied to body and areas with hair or scalp. The problem is that it’s easy to under-apply if not used well; don’t forget to spray well and apply with your hands.
• stick barra: This is a more portable and precise format, making it useful in small areas such as eyes, lips, ears, or around scars. It’s also very practical for touching up your makeup without ruining it.
• Pressed powder with SPF index: Although the protective power of a single product is limited, it is useful for touch-ups during the day. It’s best to use them only as a supplement.
• Serum or sun drops: The most modern and sophisticated bets designed to incorporate healthy habits. Skin care products Does not change the texture of the rest of the product.

Face and body sunscreen

Another of the most common questions about photoprotection is: Can I use body sunscreen on my face too? Facial skin is thinner, more sensitive, and has a higher concentration of sebaceous glands than the rest of the body. that’s why, Facial sunscreens are formulated with these specificities in mind: Lighter textures, oil control or luminous, options for atopic skin or other active ingredients like antioxidants, hyaluronic acid or even color.

instead, Body sunscreens tend to have thicker textures, more occlusive ingredients, and fragrances On the face it can cause clogged pores, acne, or allergic reactions. On the contrary, facial sunscreen is used on the body, and there is no big problem except financial problems. On the contrary, it is not ideal, although using any protection is always better than not using it.

What is the level of protection?

You already know the types of photoprotective films. It’s time to discuss this directly with some people Most frequently asked questions about sun protection.

What does SPF mean in sunscreen?

SPF is the abbreviation SPF (Sun Protection Factor or SPF, in Spanish). This metric measures the capabilities of a product Protects skin from UVB rays (Remember, to know if a product also protects against UVA, you have to look for the UVA symbol in a circle on the packaging). It is calculated by comparing the time it takes for protected skin to burn compared to unprotected skin.

Actually: SPF 30 Filters approximately 97% of UVB rays, SPF 50, 98%, and SPF 50+, 99%. Yes, the difference between the high values ​​is small in percentage terms, but on long exposures or very fair or sensitive skin, 1% matters. What must be clear is No sunscreen can block 100% of radiation.

How to choose the right sunscreen for your skin type?

There is no one-size-fits-all sunscreen. As common sense sums up, the best are: One that suits your skin and lifestyle. Here you can determine which group you belong to and your recommended SPF value.

Photo layout	feature	reaction to sunlight	Recommended SPF
Light type I	Very light skin, freckles, light eyes, reddish hair	It always burns but never tans	SPF 50+
Light type II	Light skin, light or green eyes, blond or light brown hair	Burns easily, low tan level	SPF 50+
Light type III	Medium skin, brown eyes and hair	Moderate burns, gradual tanning	SPF 30-50
Phototype IV	Mediterranean skin, dark eyes and hair	Burns less and tans easily	SPF 30
Photo type V	Dark skin, Latin, Asian or Middle Eastern features	Few burns, lots of tan	SPF 20-30
Photo type VI	Very dark skin, African features	it almost never burns	SPF at least 15-20

attention! Having a high-gloss type doesn’t mean UV radiation can’t harm youeven if you never get burned. Photoaging and skin cancer risk affect all light types; burning thresholds simply vary.

How to protect yourself from the sun?

Knowing which sunscreen to use is only half the equation. The other half—and the losing half—is do it right. Here are tips that make a difference:

• Apply before going outnot when you’re already in the sun. The chemical filter takes 15 to 30 minutes to activate properly on the skin.
• Use sufficient amount. The general rule is 2 mg per square centimeter of skin. For the face, it’s about the size of a small spoon. For the body, apply approximately 35 ml (almost two tablespoons) per application.
• Find products suitable for your skin type. We’re not talking about higher or lower SPF, but specific formulas for dry, oily or sensitive skin. This way you can avoid reactions that may cause you to not use sunscreen.
• Updated every two hours. Even if the packaging says “waterproof,” it will remain so after bathing, sweating, or drying with a towel.
• Adjust sunscreen according to activity, No matter what type of photo you have. For example, if you’re only walking for 10 minutes on the street between home and work, you can’t use the same SPF value as if you were to run in the sun for an hour or go kayaking in the morning.
• Don’t forget the most hidden areas. If you’re not wearing sunscreen, also apply sunscreen to your ears, neck, tops of feet, lips, and scalp.
• Cosmetics with SPF do not count as adequate protection. By itself it is insufficient because it is not applied in the necessary amounts. Use it as a complement, not a replacement.
• It’s necessary even on cloudy days. Clouds – or umbrellas – do not block UV radiation; they only reduce the temperature, not direct or indirect exposure. In fact, UVA rays can even penetrate windows.
• Follow expiry date instructions. Sunscreen, unlike olive oil, which does not expire, will lose its properties and effectiveness over time.
• Children under 6 months of age should not be exposed to direct sunlight. From this age onwards, always use SPF 50+ for babies and children.

Did you find this guide on the correct use of sunscreen useful? On the La Española blog you will find More on healthy eating, olive oil recipes and cooking tips Make the most of the best Mediterranean ingredients. Because taking care of yourself means looking after yourself both internally and externally.