A question I’ve heard from many of you lately: Is SPF 100 better than 30?
Let’s face it, what seems like it should be a no-brainer can leave a lot of us burned when we thought we were protected.
A, B, C of UV
The sun emits UVA, UVB and UVC rays. UVC rays are short and don’t reach us all the way down here on land.
UVA, ultraviolet A rays, are the longest ultraviolet rays and penetrate into our dermis (your skin under the skin) and are responsible for creating wrinkles, deep creases, and damage to your DNA. UVA rays also penetrate through windows – so, yes, you need sunscreen indoors if you are often near windows or in the car.
UVB, ultraviolet B rays, are shorter and reach your epidermis (the skin you see) and is responsible for sunburns, peeling and loss of elasticity.
A simple way to think of it, UVA = Aging, UVB = Burning.
SPF Demystified
SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, is a measure of protection for only UVB rays. SPF 30 blocks 97% of UVB rays while SPF 100 blocks 99% – only a 2% difference. Which is why I stick with SPF 30 as a recommendation since higher SPF concentrations can irritate the skin. Plus, I’m that person on the beach with the hat so large a family of 20 could camp under it.
Ok, Alison, but how do they get the number? Say it took 300 seconds for skin to burn with sunscreen, and 10 seconds to burn without it. 300 is divided by 10, which is 30. The SPF is then 30. Remember, that number only protects against UVB rays.
The Best Protection
To protect against both types of UV rays, look for a broad spectrum sunscreen. I offer two options of broad spectrum sunscreen: Tuel Daily Protect (regular & oil free) and Glo Moisturizing Tint in Light, Medium & Dark; both brands are SPF 30 and also work as a light day time moisturizer.
No matter what strength you use, using the right amount is the key for optimal protection. I’ve seen recent studies showing that people only apply 25% to 50% of the recommended amount of sunscreen. For the entire body, 1 ounce is recommended for the average adult.
Why makeup isn’t an optimal choice
I hear it a lot: I don’t need a separate sunscreen, I have it in my makeup. Remember I just mentioned that people only apply 25% to 50% of the needed amount? Unless you are a Kardashian, you likely aren’t putting on enough makeup to get the benefit of the listed SPF. Remember, those numbers depend upon you applying the needed amount, and makeup just doesn’t cover it. Pun intended.
With all that said – wearing SPF is my #1 Anti-Aging Tip. Reports vary, but sun damage has been shown to be responsible for 60% to 80% of our skin’s aging.
June is Pride Month
Since June is Pride month, I wanted to take a moment to reiterate something I have always stood by. I am your ally, and this is a safe place. Skin Care by Alison is a place of healing, respite, inclusion, diversity, compassion, support, and love. Male, female, gay, straight, non-binary, bi-sexual, transgender, questioning, pansexual – I love you all wholly and equally. This is a place for you to relax, detox, unwind and feel safe. Always.
A big reason I am at The Annex by LK & Grey is because they share my belief in inclusivity, compassion, support and love.
Save The Date
We are having our Grand Opening Celebration on Thursday July 8, 2021 from 4-7pm. The salon next door will be joining us in the celebration and we will have raffles and gifts from the spa and salon. I’ll be handing out a special gift to the first 50 people who show up. Included is a “Scratch & Win” ticket for $20, $25, or $30 off services (restrictions apply). Save the date and I hope to see you there.
Have a happy beginning to your summer season and I look forward to seeing you soon.
Restore, Renew, Relax,
Alison
