Sunscreen cosmetics: a review of products and tips for choosing

Everyone probably knows about the harmful long-term exposure to sunlight and its consequences today. But some people still do not bother with the purchase of special cosmetics for tanning, which will protect not only the skin, but also the body as a whole from the harmful effects of the sun. The article will discuss sunscreen cosmetics, the variety of such products and the nuances of choice.

Absolutely all cosmetics to protect the skin from the harmful effects of the sun must contain special substances that neutralize the effect of spectrum A and B rays on the skin. These substances are called UV filters. They save the skin (and the human body as a whole) from really dangerous rays. It is the rays of the spectrum A and B that provoke photoaging and can stimulate the division of cancer cells.

Filters can be of two types.

• Physical - act as a screen, blocking the penetration of rays into the deep dermal layers. These are micron-sized chemical compounds - titanium dioxide, as well as derivatives of silicones, zinc oxide.
• Chemical - suppress the rays themselves, transforming their energy into heat. The most popular chemical filters are salicylic acid esters.

Products in this spectrum, that is, creams, lotions and oils, imply varying degrees of protective action. AND it is called the SPF factor (Sun Protective Factor), which is expressed in digital values ​​- from 4 to 50... It is worth telling what these values ​​say.There is a scientific term: the lowest erythemal dose is the time period after which, under the influence of ultraviolet radiation, redness forms on the skin, that is, erythema. On average, it is 15 minutes. SPF values ​​show how many times a person using sunscreen can extend this time.

If you use a cream with an SPF of 8, you can stay in the sun 8 times longer than the average 15 minutes. But, of course, these numbers are arbitrary, because the skin of each person individually reacts to tanning.

Experts assure: the best cosmetics are not the one with the highest index, but the most suitable for you personally and applied reasonably.

The main mistake is neglecting protective cosmetics as such. On cloudy days, in the shade, most people do not use it. But about 80% of ultraviolet rays penetrate the skin through the clouds. The shade also does not provide complete protection from the sun, even under an umbrella, you get about 30% of the rays. Therefore, it is almost always necessary to use means for a safe tanning in the summer.

Let's consider the most common questions about sunscreen cosmetics, which are answered by professional cosmetologists.

1. Why is it important to look beyond the expiration date of funds? Manufacturers usually indicate a period of 2-3 years, but it is valid if you store your cosmetics correctly. It should be kept in a cool and dry place. But a lot of people take the cream to the beach, throw it right under the sun, and do not even suspect that in this way the end of its shelf life is rapidly approaching.
2. Doesn't ordinary cosmetics become a barrier to sun rays? There are, of course, foundations with a small protective level. But they must have special markings. But with regard to powder, this does not work. Even if certain SPF values ​​are indicated on it, protection is literally impossible: the powder does not form a dense film on the skin.
3. When to spread the cream - on the beach or at home? You should apply the cream even at home, before walking or going to the beach. This also applies to professional cosmetics for the face and body from the sun, and budget formulations.
4. Why apply the cream all over the body? Indeed, even if certain parts of the body are covered by a swimsuit or clothing, the product must be applied to the body completely.
5. Is the cream used again after bathing? Yes, even waterproof products are imperfect. Therefore, after bathing, 1.5 hours after the first application, the cream must be used again.
6. Why isn't face lotion suitable? Sunscreen lotion will work fine for some people, but not for most. The skin on the face is thinner and more vulnerable, so alcohol products will only be harmful - they dry the skin and lead to irritation. Use softer tanning products.
7. What is Mineral Screen? This is what cosmetics with physical filters offer. These formulations contain active minerals that repel and scatter UV rays. They are more suitable for sensitive skin and are recommended for people with pigmentation. The shelf life of such funds is longer.

The organic fashion is only gaining momentum, people are increasingly paying attention to organic cosmetics, including sunscreen.

Let's list the best eco-products for tanning.

• Sunscreen Badger Company. Created on the basis of zinc oxide, as well as beeswax, sunflower oil, vitamin E, jojoba oil. The natural composition is confirmed by a special certificate.

• All-Natural Sunscreen. The cream is based on zinc oxide, without "chemistry" in the composition, with natural plant extracts and essential oils that care for the skin.

• COOLA Organic Suncare Collection. This product is for baby skin, but people of different ages use it.Based on zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Includes many organic oils, bisabolol, beeswax.

• California Baby. Experts consider it one of the safest formulations in its segment; it is purchased even for babies. But adults with sensitive skin can also appreciate the quality of the product.

From budget products, one should single out Pure Line cream for tanning phyto-food. It costs about 300 rubles and is sold everywhere. SPF-30, light and pleasant application, suitable for all skin types.

The list of well-proven means will include:

• Garnier ambre solaire - a whole line of products that prove that French cosmetics guarantee quality, comfort, modernity;
• Floresan - a whitening sunscreen that brightens and smoothes the skin, making freckles less visible, suitable for both body and face;
• Nivea sun kids - although the cream is for children, it is often used by the whole family, it is non-allergic, it contains panthenol and tocopherol;
• Bioderma "Aquafluid" - pharmaceutical product against sunburn, produced in France, protects delicate and thin skin.

It is very important not only to choose a good product, but also to use it correctly. It is believed that it is worth applying the cream 20 minutes before going outside. At the same time, the face and body must be clean and dry. Spread the cream evenly over the skin, not forgetting about the neck, décolleté, ears.

Creams, emulsions and gels are considered the most convenient to use. Oils are less effective because they can only form a thin layer on the skin. Sticks are designed for water based applications, but are more suitable for spot applications. (for example, to protect moles from the influence of ultraviolet rays).

Make-up powders with a protective filter can and should be used, but only as an additional product. Sprays and aerosols are often used for the scalp and hair, which also need protection.

For an overview of sunscreens, see the next video.