Summer Tips: What’s the best SPF level?

image courtesy of Ronile

Everybody loves Summer! Often times, we’re more likely to ask ourselves - what’s the best SPF level for me?

Okay, first of all, let us define SPF. Sun Protection Factor, commonly known as SPF, is a measure of how effective a sunscreen will protect your skin from UV rays. Ultraviolet radiation (UV rays) has wavelengths classified as UVA, UVB, and UVC. These UV rays can cause sunburn, premature skin aging, eye damage (including cataracts), and worst - skin cancer.

So, if you’re planning to go out with friends or family this summer, make sure you bring with you a sunscreen with enough SPF to protect you against harmful UV rays.

So, what’s the best sunscreen and SPF rating?

There is no specific sunscreen brand and SPF level that we can call as the best sunscreen product and the best SPF level, respectively. When it comes to UV protection, you need to pay attention to the ingredients. According to skincancer.org, you look for a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher, plus some combination of the following UVA-screening ingredients: stabilized a avobenzone, ecamsule (a.k.a. MexorylTM), oxybenzone, titanium dioxide, and zinc oxide to make sure you are protected from UVA and UVB.

While we can't exactly tell which SPF level is the best. Here is a helpful SPF chart that will guide you on choosing which SPF level is recommended based on your skin complexion.

Image owned by hawaiiantropic.com

Let me end this article with some tips:

• avoid too much exposure to sunlight.
• avoid tanning and UV tanning booths.
• cover up with clothing and user UV-blocking sunglasses.
• apply sunscreen with at least SPF 15 (or more) every 2 hours, or after swimming and excessive sweating.
• see a doctor, at least once a year, for a professional skin exam.