How to choose a right sunscreen

SPF stands for Sun Protection factor, and the number associated with it indicates how long you can be out in the sun without burning. For example, a sunscreen with an SPF of 8 protects twice as long as that of an SPF 4. Most sunburns can be protected with an SPF 15 sunscreen.

SPF ratings can be misleading because SPF measures the ability ot screen only UVB rays that cause sunburn. It gives no information about UVA protection, which is the major cause of pigmentation and aging. Therefore, it’s advisable to read those ingredients on the labels carefully.

Zinc oxide is the best sunblock as it blocks both UVA and UVB rays. Other UVA blockers are titanium oxide, parsol 1789 (which is unstable and has to be reapplied every two hours), mexoryl and helioplex. You skin type is also a factor when choosing the right sunscreen. If you have oily skin, choose a gel-based sunscreen. Lotion or cream versions are better for those with dry skin.

This entry was posted on Saturday, March 17th, 2007 at 4:44 am and is filed under Beauty. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

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