Our distant ancestors in the ancient world knew that it is necessary to protect your body from the scorching rays of the sun. They used plant decoctions and natural substances for this. The means had a low degree of protection and were not convenient enough to use. Fortunately, the cosmetic industry now offers a wide range of products to protect the skin from the sun.
We will tell you how to choose the best face cream with SPF and what to pay attention to. Why is it so important to protect our skin from the sun's rays not only in summer, but all year round, regardless of weather conditions.
Face creams with SPF: an important stage of skin care in the summer
The first sunscreens had a greasy texture, were sticky and left white marks on the skin, and the protection was only up to SPF 10. Over time, their composition changed, new filters were added, and even now manufacturers are improving the formula, making them universal and multifunctional.
The skin on the face is thinner, delicate and vulnerable, and therefore needs the most protection from ultraviolet light, because we can cover other parts of the body with clothes. It should be protected from sunburn and photoaging, and especially for those people who suffer from psoriasis, eczema, rosacea and have hyperpigmentation and a significant number of moles.
The use of sunscreens is necessary after cosmetic procedures, peelings, if you use cosmetics with acids, as well as during the period of taking certain drugs. The skin becomes hypersensitive to ultraviolet radiation.
It is also worth remembering that it is not advisable to be in the sun for a long time. You should protect your skin with clothing and wear hats. Be sure to wear sunglasses so as not to provoke the development of cataracts, because the lens and cornea suffer from ultraviolet rays.
Types of radiation:
UVA - ultraviolet rays that affect the skin all the time, regardless of the season. Penetrate through glass, clothes and act on the dermis. They destroy collagen and elastin, which can cause skin cancer.
UVB - prevail in summer or in bright sunlight. They affect the release of melanin and give our skin the desired chocolate shade of tan. At the same time, they can cause burns and allergic reactions.
UVC – absorbed by the ozone layer.
HEV is blue light from gadget screens. It negatively affects the protective functions of the skin, promotes the appearance of pigmentation and free radicals. It does not cause sunburn, but in combination with UVA rays can contribute to the development of skin cancer.
IR - penetrate the dermis and hypodermis. They create a feeling of warmth, but in small quantities they do not pose a threat to the body.
On all sunscreens, you've definitely noticed the SPF (sun protection factor) label and the number next to it. It shows the degree of protection, the more it is, the higher it is.
Filters play an important role when choosing a face cream with sun protection. They are of two types:
Physical - mineral oxides that reflect rays: titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. They do not significantly whiten the skin and leave a plaque. Means with physical filters are suitable even for sensitive skin, because they are non-toxic and do not accumulate in the skin. Able to reflect UVA rays and work instantly after application.
Chemical - organic compounds capable of absorbing ultraviolet rays and converting them into thermal energy. The most popular: oxybenzone, octisalate, octocrylene. Easily absorbed, but can cause irritation on sensitive skin. They begin to act 20-30 minutes after application.
Some manufacturers combine different types of filters in their tools.
Sunscreen cosmetics for the face should be applied 10-15 minutes before going outside. If you spend a long time in the sun or on the beach, you need to apply the product every 2-3 hours and renew after swimming.
In your arsenal, it is desirable to have several products with SPF. In winter, a sufficient degree of protection is 15-20. Face cream with SPF in the summer should be marked 30 and above, especially if you have a low skin phototype. When you are planning a vacation on the sea sand, sunscreen with SPF 50 will reliably protect your skin.
The main trends in the cosmetic market regarding creams with SPF:
Natural, ecologically clean ingredients. The hormone-like effect of some filters negatively affects the pollution of the ocean ecosystem and the growth of coral reefs. Therefore, manufacturers are constantly improving formulas, creating new filters and conducting numerous studies in this direction. Jojoba, coconut, chamomile, and lavender extracts are added to the composition of the oil, as they also have a degree of protection against ultraviolet rays, albeit a small one.
Rejection of old protection filters such as octocrylene. And the use of new ones: Tinosorb S, Tinosorb M, provide high stable protection against UVA and UVB rays.
Multitasking. If earlier sunscreens were used on vacation at sea or hiking in the mountains, now they are used in everyday life. Photoaging has a cumulative effect over the years, giving surprises like pigmentation and premature wrinkles. It is undesirable to combine sunscreens with other creams, which can cause a chemical reaction and, as a result, allergies. Today, there are sunscreens that already have whitening, moisturizing, sebum-regulating and antioxidant properties, and a toning effect.
Creation of products for certain parts of the body: lips, hair, scalp. Ultraviolet radiation can cause hair loss.
There are universal sunscreens, but it is advisable to separate them for the body and face separately.
Face creams with protection from the sun and care: application by time of day
Minor exposure to ultraviolet rays is beneficial for the body. Under their action, such an important vitamin D is produced, which promotes the assimilation of calcium, which is necessary for building bone tissue.
Creams with SPF protection should be present on your dressing table and become part of your daily ritual.
Day creams with SPF
A face cream with SPF should be used regardless of whether you live in a country with a lot of sun or like to relax on the ocean coast. The sun's rays can cause premature appearance of wrinkles and hyperpigmentation of the skin. A day cream of at least SPF15 must be in your beauty arsenal.
Protective cream for dry skin Daily Protector SPF 30 from GIGI COSMETIC LABS
A cream with a new generation of sun protection filters suitable for normal and dry skin. Protects epidermal cells from infrared and ultraviolet radiation. The tool has a light weightless texture and does not leave shine or traces. Can be used as a makeup base. The compact format of the cream will easily fit into your purse and will always be at hand.
Moisturizing lifting cream Peptide Concept SPF 25 from a Japanese brand Demax
Protects not only from the sun's rays, but also has a pronounced lifting effect. Regular use prevents the premature appearance of wrinkles. The composition includes low-molecular collagen and a peptide complex, which is a protection for the skin. Restores water-lipid balance and increases turgor.
Night care creams
After a long stay in the sun, our skin needs hydration and care. Before going to bed, protective creams with SPF should be washed off so that she can rest. But night creams are an important stage of care. They provide additional enrichment with nutrients and restore elasticity.
Night cream with polypeptides Polypeptide Night Cream from SANMARINE
It has an active effect on the epidermis and provides moisturizing, strengthening and lifting. The weightless texture is suitable for all skin types. Effectively fights existing wrinkles and prevents the premature appearance of new ones. Perfect for mature skin. The composition includes hexapeptide, tripeptides, Selaginella japonica extract, shea oil and jojoba. It is a combination of natural extracts with innovative chemical components.
Night cream with hyaluronic acid Hyaluron Refill Night Cream from Dr. GRANDEL
It is quickly absorbed by the skin and provides deep hydration. It contains hyaluronic acid, which smooths facial wrinkles, gives the skin elasticity and a natural glow. And also promotes the synthesis of own hyaluronic acid, which is no less important. Restores hydrolipidic balance. Instant hydration especially for dry skin.
Universal creams
Every year, sun protection creams become more versatile and multifunctional due to the addition of new components. And this is really gratifying, because in addition to protection, you also get skin care. They have an antioxidant, matting, seboregulating and moisturizing effect.
Mattifying cream with Comodex Mattify & Protect SPF 15 protection from CHRISTINA
The cosmetic product protects the epidermis from ultraviolet rays for a long time. Perfectly adapts to the skin tone and does not leave an oily sheen. Promotes the regeneration of the epidermis and increases its elasticity. Helps get rid of postacne scars. Those with sensitive skin can use it instead of foundation.
Omorfies Etenia Bleaching Protective Cream from CLAY DERM
With daily use, the cream gently brightens the skin and helps get rid of hyperpigmentation on the face, neck and décolleté. The composition includes fruit acids, plant extracts and vitamins. Whitening cream with ethinyl will give your skin not only protection due to UV filters, but will restore a healthy look, elasticity and beauty to the skin. Corrects skin imperfections caused by age changes, pregnancy, cosmetic procedures and acne.
SPF face creams depending on skin type
In addition to filters, when choosing the best SPF face cream, pay attention to your skin type. What is the difference:
Normal - choose products with a light texture and softening components.
Oily - pay attention to creams with a fluid texture, which have a sebum-regulating effect and a toning effect.
Dry - choose with a more oily texture and additional moisturizing components.
Sensitive - give preference to products with hypoallergenic components and physical filters.
Mature - look at creams that include antioxidants and moisturizing extracts.
It is also important that the lighter the skin tone, the higher the degree of SPF protection should be. Some sun protection products can be applied to the face and body, but for everyday use it is better to separate them. For oily, combination and sensitive skin, the texture of body products is too heavy and aggressive. It is better to use stick products in the areas around the eyes, ears, and lips.
Many people wonder if it is possible to apply makeup on top. Yes, of course, but before applying, wait 10-15 minutes for the product to be completely absorbed into the skin.
In conclusion, facial creams with SPF are an essential part of daily skincare, providing critical protection against the harmful effects of the sun’s rays. Not only do they prevent sunburns and photoaging, but they also play a vital role in safeguarding against skin conditions exacerbated by UV exposure, such as psoriasis, eczema, and rosacea. With advancements in cosmetic formulations, today’s sunscreens offer a variety of textures and benefits, catering to different skin types and preferences. Whether you’re indoors or outdoors, incorporating a facial cream with SPF into your routine is a year-round commitment to maintaining healthy, resilient skin. Remember, the right product can make all the difference in your skin’s defense against the sun’s relentless energy. Choose wisely, apply generously, and reapply often.