The Truth About SPF

SPF, or sun protection factor, is a standard measurement of a sunscreen's ability to protect the skin against sun rays. Dermatologists and medical professionals recommend a minimum SPF of 15. When applied on a daily basis it will properly shield skin from potentially harmful solar radiation.
The lighter a person's skin, the more sun protection they need. An SPF of 30 is recommended for fair skin. Having a deeper skin tone, however, does not exempt you from wearing sunscreen. There is no such thing as a safe tan. Even those with deeper skin tones need protection, as the melanin in dark skin creates only an SPF of 4€”not nearly high enough to block UV rays.
It is also important to realize that SPFs are not mathematically linear. In other words, applying SPF 10 on top of SPF 20 is not the same as applying SPF 30. Similarly, SPF 30 does not have twice the amount of protection as SPF 15. In reality, SPF 30 blocks only four to five percent more UV rays than SPF 15. The solution to this complex equation? During periods of prolonged exposure, apply two layers of sunscreen to ensure complete coverage, and reapply throughout the day.
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Shield Your Skin from Aging
Ninety percent of what we associate with aging is a result of overexposure to UV rays. Just compare the sun-exposed skin on your arms and legs with the areas on your body that are generally covered; the difference in skin tone and texture is evidence enough. Here are a few ways that prolonged, unprotected sun exposure can take its toll with visible effects:
  • Skin Pigmentation €” UV rays induce melanin production that stimulate hyperpigmentation, otherwise known as sun spots and discolorations.
  • Collagen Production €” Solar radiation injures fibroblasts, the connective tissues that secrete skin-rejuvenating collagen and elastin, causing deep lines and wrinkles.
  • Moisture Levels €” UV light impairs the skin's barrier function and reparative abilities which leads to dehydration and a leathery appearance.
  • Cellular Damage €” Excessive and repeated sun exposure can permanently damage skin cell DNA resulting in serious skin conditions.
 
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Choose the sunscreen that fits your needs.
Hydrate + with Broad Spectrum SPF 17
This daily moisturizing sunscreen incorporates soothing emollients, including jojoba, wheat germ oil and glycerin, to nourish and protect skin's natural moisture factor while a physical SPF helps to lessen damaging UV radiation.
Reflect with Broad Spectrum SPF 30
With a lightweight, physical SPF of 30, Reflect contains chirally correct L-glutathione, a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, and is also oil-free.
Peptide-Rich Defense with Broad Spectrum SPF 50
Nourishing designer peptides help prevent visible signs of aging from glycation and protect from the harsh effects of the sun. It's the optimal skin protectant that penetrates the skin to firm, tone and improve texture.