The best sunscreen products

Why is it important to protect ourselves from the sun?

It is also important to protect ourselves from the sun all year round, not just in summer and not just on vacation or at the beach. Up to 80% of the sun's rays can pass through clouds, so we need to protect our skin from the sun even when it's cloudy outside. In addition, snow reflects up to 80% of ultraviolet (UV) rays, increasing the risk of sun damage. In addition to the risk of skin cancer, UV radiation can cause unpleasant sunburn, sun spots, hyperpigmentation, premature ageing of the skin and eye damage.

The best way to protect yourself against the damaging effects of the sun is to limit exposure and protect your skin. We also recommend sunglasses, protective clothing with long sleeves, sun hats and sunscreen.

Sun protection recommendations

• Try to avoid or limit sun exposure in the afternoon hours and choose shade or stay indoors.
• Wear protective clothing such as a long-sleeved blouse, pants, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses whenever possible.
• Apply sunscreen to sun-exposed skin every day. Apply a generous amount and choose a broad-spectrum product that filters UVA and UVB rays and ideally has SPF 30 or higher.

What is a sunscreen product?

Sun protection products have a simple role - to protect our skin from UV rays and therefore from sunburn, skin cancer and other problems. But remember that no sunscreen product can block UV radiation 100%. Such sunscreens may contain ingredients that help absorb UV light (chemical filters) or block UV radiation (mineral filters).

The sun protection factor (SPF) on the label of a sunscreen cream is a measure of how well it protects us from UV rays. The higher the SPF, the higher the skin's defense. However, no cream offers 100% protection.

How do we choose the best sunscreen?

When choosing sunscreen products, we need to take into account several factors, including your skin type, the activities you will be doing while out in the sun and the level of radiation. Choose a sunscreen that provides:

• broad spectrum protection - against UVA and UVB rays;
• SPF 30 or higher;
• water-resistant.

A sunscreen product can be found in several forms: lotion, cream, sunscreen spray, sunscreen oil, etc. For example, a sunscreen spray is easy to use, especially in hard-to-reach areas. However, be sure not to inhale the spray during application. A cream is the most commonly used option - it provides even protection and is usually more suitable for dry skin. A sunscreen lotion is usually moisturizing and easy to apply, with a thinner texture and easier to spread on the skin. Sunscreen oils provide extra moisturization, but often do not offer adequate protection against radiation. A newer option on the market is a sunscreen water, such as Vichy sunscreen water, which is light-textured, leaves no residue and is easy to use.

In terms of ingredients, sunscreens may contain chemical filters (oxybenzone or avobenzone) or mineral filters (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide). Opt for safe products from a reputable brand, such as Elmiplant sunscreen products, La Roche-Posay sunscreen, Avene, Altruist, Bioderma, etc.

How to use a sunscreen correctly?

It is not only important to choose the right products, but also to use them effectively. Apply sunscreen creams to all exposed areas of the skin, including easily overlooked areas such as earlobes, lips, the back of the neck and toes. Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside to give it time to work. Apply liberally and reapply every 2 hours or after contact with water or if sweating.

How do we choose a sunscreen for babies and children?

Sunscreen creams are suitable for all children over 6 months. Choose a baby and child sunscreen with SPF 50 and safe ingredients. A product specially designed for babies has a special formula that is safe for babies' delicate skin and does not cause irritation. Usually such creams are based on zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.

Face sunscreen

For the face it's a good idea to use a special cream, as the complexion is more sensitive than the skin on the rest of the body. A face sun protection cream is designed not only to provide effective protection, but also to prevent irritation and to be easy to apply, evenly and evenly, without leaving any white marks. To choose the best sunscreen for your face, consider skin type, SPF level (choose SPF 30 or 50) and texture. For sensitive skin, opt for a cream with mild and hypoallergenic ingredients. A cream that absorbs quickly into the skin and doesn't leave a sticky feeling is best.