With the final weeks of Summer just around the corner, it’s easy to become more complacent about sun protection. After all, once we start reaching for that trusty waterproof, things like sunshine, ice cream and swimwear soon start to feel like a distant memory. But contrary to popular belief, daily SPF remains just as essential, even during those dark Winter months in Exeter.
If you are looking to enjoy the sun abroad, make sure you book your PCR test ahead of time so you don’t get caught out:
Why is Daily SPF Essential?
Whether we can see and feel the sun or not, it’s always there. Unfortunately, this means that potentially harmful UV radiation is still there, too. If we don’t remain vigilant, accidental exposure to the sun could eventually lead to issues like sunburn, skin ageing, or even skin cancer. There’s research to back this up, too. For example, according to skincancer.org, taking the time to apply SPF 15+ sunscreen daily can actually reduce your risk of skin cancer by a massive 40-50%. This makes it one of the most powerful protective health measures you can practice, and all you need is a good SPF product and an extra 5 minutes in your routine.
The SPF product that works best for you will depend on a few factors, including your skin type and how much you’re exposed to the sun. It’s also relevant whether you have things like freckles or moles that put you at a slightly higher risk of sun damage. Overall, though, there are a couple of things you should keep an eye out for when selecting a quality sunscreen for daily essential use – SPF and star rating.
What is SPF?
We’ve already mentioned a lot about SPF, but what does it actually mean? SPF stands for sun protection factor and, vitally, it tells you how effective a product is at keeping you safe from UV radiation (or, specifically, UVB radiation). The lowest possible SPF rating is 2+, and the highest is 50+. Most dermatologists agree that selecting a sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 30+ is the safest option for the majority of people.
What Does Star Rating Refer to?
When selecting a great daily essential sunscreen, people often overlook a product’s star rating, instead focusing solely on SPF. However, choosing a product with a good star rating is equally as vital, as this tells you how well it protects against UVA radiation. By opting for a product with both high SPF and a high star rating (known as a ‘broad spectrum’ sunscreen) you’re arming yourself with the most protection against both types of harmful UV radiation.
Where can I get More Advice on Daily SPF?
If you still feel unsure about which SPF products are right for you and your family, pop into our pharmacy in Exeter for more advice. We stock a range of high-quality daily SPF and aftersun products for you to choose from, and our expert pharmacists will be happy to point you in the right direction whilst answering any questions you may have.
This blog post was written on behalf of Luxtons Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.