How to protect your skin when tanning: everything about sunscreens

During the hot season, you really want to go to the beach to soak up the sun and get an attractive dark skin tone. Many people like to bask in direct sunlight, but not everyone knows how to do it correctly so as not to harm their health. After all, exposure to ultraviolet radiation accelerates skin aging, can lead to burns and even increases the risk of developing cancer. Therefore, to avoid unpleasant consequences after sunbathing, it is recommended to use sunscreen.

History of sunscreens

Until the middle of the last century, pale skin was in fashion. A tan was a sign of belonging to the lower class, because its representatives - peasants - worked 12 hours a day in an open field under the scorching sun. And people from high society tried in every possible way to hide their skin from the sun's rays, wearing closed clothes and wide-brimmed hats.

Until the beginning of the 20th century, tanning was not in fashion, so women wore closed clothes, hats and hid from the sun under an umbrella

In those days, herbal products were used to protect against the sun. For example, rice and jasmine extract, olive oil, and zinc oxide paste.

Later, the attitude towards tanning changed: workers with low wages had to work indoors in factories without the opportunity to relax at a resort. Then everyone began to strive to get a dark skin tone to prove their financial capabilities.

Thus, the need arose to protect the skin from sunburn and the effects of ultraviolet radiation. In the early 40s of the twentieth century, Red Vet Pet cream, which blocks ultraviolet radiation, appeared. It had a viscous texture and resembled red Vaseline.

And the world standard SPF (Sun Protection Factor), which determines the degree of protection of a cream, was introduced by the Swiss chemist Franz Greiter only in the 70s. Afterwards, the creams improved and became more and more popular.

How does sunlight affect the skin?

– From a practical point of view, we must talk about the impact on humans of two spectra of UV rays: medium-wave radiation (UVB) at a wavelength of 280–320 nm and long-wave radiation (UVA) at a wavelength of 320–400 nm.

UVB rays are responsible for causing burns, which can subsequently lead to skin cancer. However, UVA rays can cause much more harm. Penetrating into the dermis, these rays reduce its elasticity, firmness, and cause the appearance of wrinkles, folds, and age spots. 90% of type B rays are blocked by the upper layer of the skin (the stratum corneum of the epidermis), while 50–60% of UVA rays are able to penetrate deep into the skin, says dermatovenerologist, Doctor of Medical Sciences, Professor of the Department of Regenerative Medicine and Biomedical Technologies of Moscow State Medical University. them. A. I. Evdokimova Ekaterina Vasilyeva.

Extended exposure to the sun (a day at the beach, for example) damages skin cells. In response to this, melanocyte cells produce a pigment that protects the skin and at the same time colors it. Thus, tanning is a protective reaction of the skin to the aggressive effects of light.

Depending on the race, a person's skin contains different amounts of pigment. Thus, black people are the most invulnerable and less susceptible to melanoma than other inhabitants of the planet.

American dermatologist Thomas Fitzpatrick identified six phototypes:

• Celtic. People of this phototype have light, porcelain skin. They are very susceptible to sunburn.
• Nordic (or light European). This type of skin is also light in tone and is very sensitive to UV radiation. The risk of burning is still high, but not as high as in the previous case.
• Dark European. Although the skin is light, it is not too vulnerable to sunlight, it lends itself well to tanning, burns do not occur immediately, but only after prolonged exposure to the sun without protection (clothing, sun cream).
• Mediterranean. Light brown skin tone. The risk of sunburn is minimal. A tan always applies well to the skin.
• Indonesian. People with this skin phototype almost never get sunburned. The skin itself is brown.
• African American. People of this phototype have the darkest skin tone. The risk of sunburn is almost zero. Tanning only makes your skin darker.

What is tanning product?

Modern sunscreens (Sansscreens) are saturated with inorganic and organic UV filters. When in contact with the skin, they protect it from scorching rays for some time, but then the composition breaks down, forming free radicals, which are also destructive to the body. That is, tanning products do not exist to extend the time of sunbathing, but to protect against forced prolonged exposure to the sun.

The effect of sunscreen does not begin immediately, so you need to apply it 30 minutes before open contact with the sun.

Classification of sunscreens

In order to get as little damage to the skin as possible when exposed to sunlight, you need to choose the right product. In this case, it is necessary to take into account the method of tanning, skin phototype, expected time of exposure to ultraviolet radiation, etc.

Sunscreens can be roughly divided according to several criteria.

By filter type

Based on the type of filters, the products are divided into:

• Physical - create a protective film on the surface, reflecting ultraviolet rays, are natural and do not cause allergies. These include: titanium dioxide;
• zinc oxide.

By protection indexes

To protect the skin from the sun, the cream must contain the following indices:

• SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is a protection factor against UVB radiation (medium ultraviolet waves that can be stopped by clothing, shade or sunglasses). Its value can be from 2 to 100%;
• PPD (Persistant Pigment Darkening) - shows the degree of reduction in the dose of UVA radiation (long-wave ultraviolet rays that can penetrate the skin through clothing and through clouds). Its maximum value is 42%;
• IPD (Immediate Pigment Darkening) is a factor that can protect skin from UVA by 90%.

Modern sunscreen products must have information on the SPF/PPD ratio on the packaging. It should tend to 2.5–3.

By degree of protection

To choose the required level of protection for a tanning product, you need to determine your skin phototype:

• No. 1 (Celtic) - blond hair and skin, blue eyes. You will need an SPF level of at least 50;
• No. 2 (Nordic, or Scandinavian) - the hair is light (blonde, light brown), and the eyes are gray or brown. The SPF factor can be reduced to 30;
• No. 3 (European) - dark brown or brown hair, light or medium skin, brown, green or gray eyes. A cream with SPF 15–20 is suitable;
• No. 4 (Mediterranean) - dark hair and eyes, moderately dark skin. You can use SPF 10 protection;
• No. 5 (Asian) - dark skin with a yellowish tint, dark or black hair, brown or black eyes. Products with SPF less than 10 are suitable;
• No. 6 (African American) - residents of African countries with dark skin. There is no risk of burning, but to protect against UV radiation it is worth using a minimum SPF.

The SPF level of sunscreen must be selected according to your skin phototype

In fact, the level of UV protection does not vary much depending on the SPF number:

• SPF 15 blocks 93% of UVB rays;
• SPF 30 - 97%;
• SPF 50 - 98%.

Therefore, dermatologists assure that using a cream with an index of 15–30 is quite sufficient.

To calculate the permissible time of safe exposure to the sun, you need to multiply your painless tanning interval by the protection factor of the cream. For example, if without a protective agent the skin begins to turn red after 10 minutes, then a cream with SPF 15 will extend this time to 150 minutes.

By purpose

Depending on the circumstances under which the skin is exposed to ultraviolet radiation, you need to use different sun protection products:

• Face cream for daily use. The skin needs protection from ultraviolet radiation all the time, and not just on vacation at the resort. Therefore, there are skin care creams containing SPF (usually a low level of protection).
• Waterproof products. Designed for active recreation on the beach, you don’t have to use them every time after swimming.
• Tanning accelerators. These products contain components that enhance melanin production. The SPF of such a product is usually 2–20 units, which must be gradually reduced.
• For tanning in a solarium. These products are somewhat different from sun tanning products. They do not contain protective elements, but only substances that promote melanin production. Therefore, they should not be used in contact with direct sunlight.
• For children. Children's products have the most natural hypoallergenic composition.
• Anti-tanning. Such products protect the skin from ultraviolet radiation while preventing its darkening. They also help lighten pigmentation and freckles.

Sunscreen for children has a natural composition and is suitable for pregnant women

According to the presence of additional components

The presence of additional useful components in a sunscreen is an important point. After all, skin exposed to ultraviolet radiation needs additional nutrition and hydration. Therefore, when choosing such a product, pay attention to what it contains:

• vitamin E (antioxidant),
• panthenol (restores),
• various oils (moisturize, soften, relieve inflammation),
• hyaluronic acid (moisturizes),
• extracts of chamomile, aloe, calendula, etc. (soothe).

The best tanning creams for the sun

No. 7 – GARNIER Ambre Solaire Expert Protection

GARNIER Ambre Solaire Expert Protection
This is a sunscreen that is considered one of the most budget options. But at the same time, it is excellent for protecting the skin from the sun, caring for it, is not washed off with water and will allow you to sunbathe without risk, even on vacation in southern countries.

The SPF value of the product is 50, that is, it will help protect the skin from burns even in hot southern countries. The cream perfectly blocks the most dangerous UVA and UVB rays. There are no fragrances or parabens in the composition. Moreover, the cream is quite waterproof, and you can not only lie in the sun with it, but also swim without worrying that the level of protection will decrease significantly. But the coating needs to be renewed every two hours, as when using any other composition.

It is noted that the product is suitable for sensitive dermis. After applying the cream there is no sticky feeling, which is very appreciated by users. By the way, the product does not stain clothes either.

As buyers note, the product is quite oily, which is why not all people can use it (depending on skin type). And, unfortunately, alcohol was found in the composition. Otherwise, it’s a good budget option.

pros

• inexpensive
• waterproof
• no fragrance
• does not contain parabens
• suitable for sensitive dermis
• does not cause allergies

Minuses

• Not suitable for all skin

Prices for cream GARNIER Ambre Solaire Expert Protection

cream GARNIER Ambre Solaire Expert Protection

No. 6 - L'Oreal Paris Sublime Sun Extra Protection

L'Oreal Paris Sublime Sun Extra Protection
Cream, which many users consider the best for themselves. The product not only protects the dermis from burns, but also gives it a beautiful pearlescent hue.

This is not exactly a cream, but rather a milk, the protection level of which is only 15. But it contains a special Mexoril filter that does an excellent job of absorbing dangerous rays. Also in the list of ingredients is a substance that stimulates the production of melanin, a pigment that provides a beautiful tan. Thus, using this milk, you can get an even and beautiful skin color without the fear of burning in the sun. Moreover, the product helps to maintain a tan for a long time.

Users note that this milk does not like water. That is, after swimming in water, it needs to be reapplied. Another disadvantage is the appearance of traces of the product on clothes. But with its task - giving the skin a beautiful color and protecting it - the composition does an excellent job. Due to the low SPF level, the product cannot be used under the scorching southern sun.

pros

• gives a pearlescent tint
• contains tanning activator
• provides an even, beautiful tan
• helps maintain beautiful color
• easy to apply

Minuses

• unstable in water
• leaves marks on clothes
• low SPF level

Prices for L'Oreal Paris Sublime Sun Extra Protection

L'Oreal Paris Sublime Sun Extra Protection

Reviews of L'Oreal Paris Sublime Sun Extra Protection

No. 5 – La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL

La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL
A non-greasy product with a good SPF level, chosen by those who care about what is applied to their skin. This is one of the most effective protections ever developed for tanning.

This composition belongs to the “gel-cream” category, has a high level of protection from dangerous rays SPF 50. The mattifying effect makes it possible to use the product for oily, problematic, combination skin. Due to its light texture, it is applied quite simply and is evenly distributed over the dermis. UV protection is high, and the skin does not shine. The product also contains special Mexoplex filters that prevent aging and the appearance of unsightly pigmentation. The cream is great for sensitive skin.

As buyers note, the composition can be applied to the body and face. It lays down smoothly and leaves no streaks or marks. The effect lasts for a long time. The product does not have any intrusive aromas. By the way, this version of the cream is also not afraid of water.

pros

• not afraid of water
• matting effect
• high level of protection
• prevents aging and pigment formation
• long lasting effect
• easy to apply
• no unpleasant or pungent odor
• does not leave marks on clothes

Minuses

• expensive

Prices for La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL

La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL

No. 4 – Lancaster Sun Beauty Care “Radiant tan”

Lancaster Sun Beauty Care “Radiant Tan”
A product with a pleasant scent that will keep the dermis healthy and get an even tan. The drug also prevents early aging of the epidermis and helps restore fluid balance.

This product, called “Radiant Tan,” has a protection level of 30. It contains antioxidant components. Also among the ingredients there are those that prolong the youth of the skin, moisturize it, and make it pleasant to the touch. There is no stickiness after applying the product. A good option for a beach holiday or by the pool.

Users noted that the cream smells very pleasant, has a light texture and is practically not felt on the skin. Thanks to this composition, the tan is uniform and beautiful. But the product is not resistant to water; it must be reapplied after swimming or wiping the body with a towel. Another disadvantage is the appearance of traces of the product on clothes. Well, the price of the drug is such that not every woman can afford it.

pros

• moisturizes
• contains antioxidant substances
• provides an even tan
• prevents aging
• restores hydrobalance
• easy to apply

Minuses

• expensive
• leaves marks on clothes
• unstable to water

Prices for Lancaster Sun Beauty Care “Radiant tan”

Lancaster Sun Beauty Care "Radiant tan"

No. 3 – Darphin Soleil Plaisir

Darphin Soleil Plaisir
One of the best products, worthy of entering the TOP. Perfectly protects the skin from burns and pigmentation, contains good and useful components.

The level of sun protection is high - 50, so you can take the product with you when traveling to the south. It is suitable for fair, sensitive and burn-prone skin. Contains moisturizing hyaluronic acid, beneficial vitamin E, and avocado oil. The texture is quite dense, but the cream is still easy to apply, the skin under it breathes, there is no sticky feeling.

The main disadvantage of the cream is its high cost. But users note that, in addition to performing protective work, the cream also makes the skin elastic and tightened. But the smell is quite strong - the aroma of ylang-ylang, orange and lilies. You need to apply it 30 minutes before going out into the sun. The product is shiny, and those who are embarrassed by this shine are recommended to use powder. But the composition is not afraid of water, but every two hours the cover on the dermis needs to be renewed. In general, the drug has never let anyone down and perfectly protects the dermis from burns.

pros

• not afraid of water
• high level of protection
• excellent composition
• makes skin elastic
• easy to apply
• suitable for light skin

Minuses

• expensive
• pronounced odor

Prices for Darphin Soleil Plaisir

Darphin Soleil Plaisir

No. 2 – Vichy Capital Ideal Soleil

Vichy Capital Ideal Soleil
An activator that helps the skin tan faster and more evenly. Moreover, it copes well with pigmentation and moisturizes the dermis.

The tanning activator has a protection level of 50, which means it can be used even in southern countries where solar activity is high. The complex contains a substance that stimulates the production of melanin, called tyrosine. Also among the ingredients you can find mecrosil - it protects the skin from the influence of dangerous UV rays. The product additionally nourishes and moisturizes the skin, making it soft.

Users note that this is a good product that provides a good and even tan. But it is recommended to use it for already tanned skin with a medium tan. The product helps prevent the appearance of unsightly pigmentation, is quickly absorbed and leaves no residue. Its main disadvantage is its high cost.

pros

• tanning activator
• moisturizes
• nourishes
• good composition
• easy to apply
• leaves no traces

Minuses

• expensive
• Suitable for already tanned skin

Prices for Vichy Capital Ideal Soleil

Vichy Capital Ideal Soleil

No. 1 – Nivea Sun “Protection and Coolness”

Nivea Sun “Protection and Cool”
An inexpensive but effective product that provides an excellent level of sun protection, and you can buy it in any store. This is a lotion that is pleasant to apply, does not stain clothes and is accessible to everyone.

Protection level: 30 SPF. It's enough to prevent sunburn. The product moisturizes the dermis, helps fight signs of aging and makes it pleasant to the touch. By the way, the composition is not at all afraid of water - you can swim with it without fear of deterioration in the level of protection. After application, there is no sticky effect at all.

Users note that the product has all the necessary qualities, and is quite inexpensive. It comes in a convenient bottle that does not slip in your hand. The composition is comfortable and easy to apply; it spreads well on the skin. Indeed, the product moisturizes and protects the dermis, helping to protect yourself from sunburn. Smells nice. A product that deserves to take first place in our ranking in terms of price-quality ratio.

pros

• it's inexpensive
• effectively protects skin from the sun
• easy to apply
• does not stain clothes
• not afraid of water
• smells nice
• easy to buy in almost any store

Minuses

• not detected

Prices for Nivea Sun cream “Protection and Coolness”

Nivea Sun cream “Protection and coolness”

Reviews of Nivea Sun cream “Protection and Coolness”

Pharmacy products

Cosmetics sold in pharmacies inspire more confidence in many people than store-bought products. This is explained by the fact that the formulas of such products do not contain preservatives that can cause allergic reactions in the body. In addition, pharmaceutical products undergo preliminary quality control and various clinical tests.

Pharmacy tanning products:

• Librederm Bronzeada Sunscreen for face and décolleté SPF 50. Price: 739 rub. for 50 ml. Developed specifically to protect very fair and sensitive skin, rich in argan, carrot and jojoba oils, oat extract, beta-carotene, glycerin, vitamin E. Prevents aging, moisturizes, relieves tired appearance.
• Uriage Bariesun Mineral sunscreen cream SPF 50. Price: 951 rubles for 50 ml. Enriched with thermal water. Sun protection is provided by safe mineral screens that are not absorbed into the skin. Suitable for pregnant women and children, as well as those with hypersensitive skin.
• La Roche-Posay Anthelios Sunscreen milk for face and body SPF 50+. The official website offers a 250 ml bottle for 1,610 rubles. Provides high photostable protection with hydration and antioxidant capacity. It has a melting structure, does not leave a sticky layer, and is resistant to water.

Photo gallery: sunscreen pharmaceutical products

Librederm Bronzeada Sunscreen for face and décolleté SPF 50 suitable for very sensitive skin

Uriage Bariesun Mineral sunscreen cream SPF 50 can be used during pregnancy

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Sunscreen milk for face and body SPF 50+ can be purchased in a convenient mini bottle

How to use correctly

First, you need to learn how to use sunblock in the sun. Even such an easy cosmetic procedure has its own rules and sequence.

Use the product only on dry skin. Sometimes girls specifically moisturize the surface of the body so that the cream is better absorbed, but this only washes away the protective filters in the composition.

Half an hour before leaving the room, apply the cream evenly over the entire body with light massaging movements. Particular attention should be paid to frequently burned parts of the body: cheekbones, nose, shoulders, legs and chest.

Creams with a waterproof base do not need to be reapplied after swimming in a pond, but only after the expiration of its effect. However, if the product has a regular composition, after the second or third entry into the water you need to renew the layer of cream.

After leaving the beach, you need to take a shower to wash off the remaining cream. Next, you need to apply a light after-sun lotion to your face and body. This will help moisturize your skin and lock in your dark complexion for a long time.

Top 5 products for pregnant women

During pregnancy, a woman should be especially careful when choosing cosmetics. Since it is undesirable to expose your body to solar radiation, you should choose the most gentle remedy, following some recommendations:

• contains only safe components: zinc oxide,
• starch,
• panthenol,
• aloe vera,
• salicylic acid,
• vitamin E,
• green tea,
• plant extracts, etc.;

If it is difficult to find a sunscreen product recommended during pregnancy, you can use a cream for children: its composition is also as safe as possible.

Top 5 products for pregnant women (all of them do not contain preservatives, harmful chemical additives, and the composition is hypoallergenic):

• Chicco Sun cream for expectant mothers SPF 50 (RUB 344 for 75 ml);
• Bioderma Photoderm Max Sunscreen SPF 50+ (RUB 1,080 for 40 ml);
• Garnier Dry spray “Extra protection” Ambre Solaire SPF 50 (RUB 870 for 200 ml);
• Biocon Sun Anti-tanning cream for photosensitive areas of the skin SPF 70 (RUB 268 for 75 ml);
• Mustela Sunscreen milk with a very high degree of protection SPF 50 (RUB 1,396 per 200 ml).

Photo gallery: sunscreens allowed during pregnancy

Chicco Sun cream for expectant mothers SPF 50 prevents the formation of pigmentation

Bioderma Photoderm Max Sunscreen SPF 50+ has a harmless composition Garnier Dry spray “Extra protection” Ambre Solaire SPF 50 has been dermatologically tested

Biocon Sun Anti-tanning cream for photosensitive skin areas SPF 70 enriched with natural extracts and oils

Mustela Sunscreen milk with very high protection SPF 50 tested by dermatologists and pediatric control

The best tanning oils

Most users note that to get a quick and intense even tan, you need to purchase oil, not cream. As a rule, these products do not have sunscreen, but, on the contrary, tan-attracting properties. However, they protect the skin from burns to some extent, help eliminate the risk of unwanted pigmentation, and make it possible to tan really quickly. Let's see which oils users use most often.

No. 3 – Nivea Sun tanning oil spray SPF 6 with carotene

Nivea Sun tanning oil spray SPF 6 with carotene
This oil with a low level of protection against UV rays is ideal for creating an even, beautiful tan in a short time. True, it is only suitable for dark skin.

The level of protection of the product is low and is only 6 SPF, but this is a normal indicator, considering that it is used specifically for tanning. This is a waterproof option that will not wash off when swimming. Additionally, the product moisturizes the skin, making it softer and softer. It contains carotene for a brighter tan and vitamin E. The tan really sticks faster and turns out even and neat.

Users write that this product really allows you to become bronze faster, but it stains your clothes a lot. Also, the tan itself is washed off quite quickly, but while it is fresh, it has a beautiful shade. Consumption is economical. In general, it is an inexpensive and effective product with its drawbacks.

pros

• it's inexpensive
• allows you to tan quickly
• provides a beautiful tan
• good composition
• waterproof
• protects against UV rays

Minuses

• stains clothes
• the tan washes off quickly

Prices for Nivea Sun tanning oil spray SPF 6 with carotene

Nivea Sun tanning oil spray SPF 6 with carotene

No. 2 – Dry tanning oil Yves Rocher

Yves Rocher Dry Tanning Oil
This is a convenient option for a product that will help you tan quickly and beautifully. The delicious smell, high efficiency and reasonable price allowed the composition to find a large number of admirers.

The product is perfectly absorbed, and not only helps to attract the tan to the skin, but also makes it soft and tender. It is best to apply only to dark or already tanned skin to avoid getting burned. The composition also helps to preserve the resulting color for a long time. The oil is easy to apply; it has a special spray dispenser. Absorbs quickly without leaving any unpleasant marks.

Users note that this is an effective tool that they do not want to change. A low protection factor is not a hindrance, since otherwise the oil does its job perfectly. You just shouldn’t stay under the scorching rays for a long time to avoid getting burned.

pros

• it's inexpensive
• does not stain clothes
• convenient to use
• gives an even and beautiful tan
• absorbs quickly
• cares for the dermis

Minuses

• low level of protection

Prices for dry tanning oil Yves Rocher

Dry tanning oil Yves Rocher

No. 1 – Garnier Ambre Solaire

Garnier Ambre Solaire oil
A product that is recommended for dark-skinned people to get a beautiful tan. It fits perfectly on the skin and allows you to tan quickly.

Contains shea butter, which helps the skin tan faster and more evenly. Also, due to a good set of ingredients, the oil additionally cares for the skin, making it smooth and soft. For fair skin, it is suitable if you first “accustom” the dermis to the sun, that is, it is recommended to smear with oil only three days after the start of sunbathing. The main disadvantage is that it washes off with water, so after swimming you need to reapply the layer.

Users write that the oil is easy and smooth to apply, has a low cost and is affordable even for the most budget-conscious. But it stains things, and can also be felt on the skin in extremely hot weather. The level of protection is quite high - 20 SPF.

pros

• cheap
• high level of protection
• easy to apply
• good composition
• suitable for light skin
• smells nice

Minuses

• gets things dirty
• feels uncomfortable on the skin in hot weather

Prices for Garnier Ambre Solaire oil

Garnier Ambre Solaire oil

Reviews of Garnier Ambre Solaire oil

Protective cream at home

You can make your own sunscreen cream. It is important that it contains zinc oxide, a safe physical filter approved by dermatologists that can absorb ultraviolet rays. It can be bought in some pharmacies or online stores for about 80–120 rubles. (per 50 g of powder).

Zinc oxide can be purchased in pharmacies or online stores

A moisturizing and nourishing base can be made from a mixture of natural oils with natural SPF (from 1 to 8). These include the following:

• avocado (unrefined),
• macadamia,
• olive,
• sesame,
• carrot seeds,
• raspberry seeds,
• shi,
• jojoba,
• coconut,
• marula,
• buriti, etc.

Example recipe:

1. Prepare ingredients:
   jojoba oil – 30 g,
2. shea butter - 15 g,
3. coconut oil - 50 g,
4. beeswax - 15 g,
5. lavender essential oil - 15 drops,
6. zinc oxide - 30 g.
7. Place all oils and wax in a glass or enamel container.
8. Melt the ingredients in a water bath.
9. Remove from heat and gradually add zinc oxide, stirring constantly.
10. Pour the resulting cream into a jar and place in a cool place. It should be stored for no more than six months.

Video: preparing sunscreen at home

Properly selected sunscreen, as well as its judicious use, will help you get a harmless, uniform, beautiful tan. And additional useful components of the composition will also provide useful skin care, preventing it from drying out and early aging.

• Author: Ekaterina Zhirnova
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Level of protection for different skin types

The main skin protector in the sun is SPF filters. By the way, the level of protection can also be demonstrated by the presence of components such as UVA and UVB.

The SPF (sun protection factor) value demonstrates how much radiation the dermis can receive without dire consequences. The value demonstrates how much it is possible to reduce the level of exposure to type B rays, which provoke the production of the melanin pigment. For example, an SPF value of 30 means that it protects the epidermis 30 times better than with an SPF2 value. But you shouldn’t expect a quick tan with this composition with such protection.

UVA reports that type A rays (which cause aging of the dermis) are blocked by the product. That is, the skin will not become wrinkled, rough and black. But creams with such barriers are usually recommended to be applied at least 30 minutes before going outside, as they do not begin to act immediately. By the way, this indicator can be designated as PPD or PI (the latter option is found on cosmetics produced in Asia).

Table. Degrees of protection.

Sunscreen PREMIUM (Russia)

Are sunscreens safe?

We have not identified any deviations in safety, in particular in the content of dangerous compounds and pathogens in the composition and in pH level. We looked for lead, mercury and arsenic in the samples, and in microbiology we checked the creams for the content of candida fungus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. We did not find heavy metals or the listed microorganisms in any of the samples.

All creams studied have a pH in the range of 5–8.2. The pH level of the skin is approximately 5.5. It is this indicator of acid-base balance that helps the skin perform its barrier functions, protecting the body from pathogenic microorganisms. The pH of the skin can change under the influence of various factors (both internal and external: sunlight, cosmetics, water, etc.). A change in the pH of the skin can lead to disruption of its functions, cause a feeling of dryness, etc. According to the Roskachestvo standard, the permissible and safe pH for the skin of sunscreens can range from 5 to 9. The highest pH - 8.2 - we recorded for creams and " Clearwin."

Some useful tips at the end

Although sunscreens are very helpful in fighting off occasional sunburns and skin cancer, that doesn't mean they provide you with perfect protection. Don't forget about healthy sunbathing! Regular clothing (such as a cotton T-shirt) has an SPF of only 4, which is not at all sufficient. Therefore, you should avoid exposure to the sun during the hottest hours. Bring umbrellas, beach tents, or find a shady spot on the beach. You should be especially careful with children, who are more prone to overheating and burns. Wear hats, sunglasses and, if possible, UV protective clothing. It is usually labeled UPF.

Degree of oil protection from the sun

You can choose commercial production products; in this case, the box should indicate which rays and how intensely the oil stops. Here the selection rules are the same as for creams. It's also good to know that most natural oils can also be used for tanning and each of them provides some degree of protection. Among the popular ones:

• Coconut oil has SPF. It is considered one of the best natural skin protectants and can be applied to the entire body, face and even hair. However, the dense texture can contribute to clogged pores and the formation of comedones.
• Raspberry seed oil, SPF Also contains vitamin E, retains skin moisture. Suitable for any type.
• Shea butter, SPF Used for children, but not for pale, but dark-skinned ones. May also have a comedic effect.
• Avocado oil, SPF Suitable for dry and mature skin.

Coconut oil

Which creams should you choose?

When choosing a cream, you should consider the following parameters:

• Age . The older the person, the greater the degree of sunscreen protection that should be preferred.
• Lifestyle . The more time you spend outdoors, the higher the SPF index you should choose.
• Condition of the skin on exposed areas of the body.
• Ultraviolet index in the region in which a person is located.

The more time you spend outdoors, the higher the SPF index you should choose.
There are no universal rules; all points must be taken into account.

The following tips will also be useful:

• Price quality . Often cheaper products contain petroleum jelly, mineral oils and other ingredients that will clog the skin, causing pimples and blackheads to form. They will make it greasy due to poor absorption.
• Double protection is better . The packaging must indicate exactly what type of solar radiation this product protects from. It is better to give preference to SPF + UV- or PPD; the SPF/PPD ratio can be indicated by the PA index and expressed in pluses.
• Every occasion has its own protection. For everyday use, you can choose a sunscreen with a lower degree of protection, and when going on a picnic for the whole day - with a more reliable one.

It is recommended to apply additional product every 2 hours

• Correct use . The protection of any cream begins to work 20 minutes after application. It is recommended to apply additional product every 2 hours. The protective effect disappears after contact with water, unless it is a moisture-resistant cream.
• Wash off everything after sunbathing . All protective products contain heavy metals, which are best removed from the surface of the skin if not necessary. Therefore, after sunbathing, it is recommended to take a thorough shower with a washcloth, you can even use a scrub.

High and low sun protection

SPF with different values ​​can be deciphered as follows:

• 1 ̶ such values ​​indicate the absence of any protection, as when staying in the open sun;
• 2 ̶ suitable for cloudy weather, when the sun is not visible behind the clouds;
• 3 ̶ the degree of such protection is comparable to a white undershirt, baseball cap, or hat;
• 4 ̶ exactly the same effect as from openwork knitted light clothing;
• 5 ̶ the same protection is provided by almond oil applied to the body;
• 6 ̶ comparable to hiding in the shade under a tree, under an umbrella, etc.;
• 7 ̶ as if there is light denim on the body;
• 8 ̶ coconut and olive oil provide such protection;
• 10 ̶ similar protection is provided by thin clothing made of cotton or linen, as well as soybean oil;
• 12 ̶ like thin clothing, but in bright colors;
• 15 ̶ this is exactly the kind of marking that can be seen on most modern skin products: lipsticks, foundations, etc.;
• 20 ̶ this index must be chosen if a person is going to travel somewhere south of his permanent place of residence;
• 30 ̶ such protection is recommended for children, as well as for active sports in the sun;
• 40 ̶ increased degree of protection from solar radiation, the same as carrot seed oil;
• 50 is the maximum degree of protection, often used in anti-aging creams.

Expert opinion

Irina Kovaleva

Cosmetology expert

It is important to remember that when applying products with different degrees of sun protection, the indicators do not add up. That is, for example, if you sit under an umbrella in a denim shirt, you can still only get SPF 7.

A special feature of SPF filters is that they protect only from one type of solar radiation, thus protecting a person from burns. The other part of the radiation that reaches the skin is practically not reduced by SPF filters.

If you prefer the most reliable protection, preference should be given to products with a combined protective effect: SPF + UV- or PPD. The highest level of protection against solar radiation is provided by products with an SPF/PPD ratio of less than 3 with the PA index.