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Sunscreens and SPF
We are born with different levels of a built-in sunscreen: Melanin. It is a natural barrier against the effects of the ultraviolet rays of sunlight because it absorbs UV light. Sunburn occurs when the amount of UV exposure exceeds what Melanin production protects against. Melanin alone is rarely enough to protect against intensive UV radiation (summer sun, noonday sun, proximity to the Equator, high altitudes, prolonged snow or water reflection, too long on the beach or at the pool). Sun tan products contain organic or inorganic agents that absorb UV light and convert it to harmless heat. So-called sun blockers (usually zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) help reduce UV penetration by reflecting most of the rays.
SPF (different countries have different abbreviations) is the worldwide system used to determine how much protection a sunscreen product provides. However, most people use less than the recommended application and apply their sunscreen too thinly. SPF is not only about strength, it is also about time. An SPF of 10 will protect you for 100 minutes, but will you remember to reapply it? If you stay out in the sun for two hours (120 minutes), you are running the risk of a burn. Moreover, The SPF rating applies only to UVB (burn) radiation and not to UVA (aging). All of this may be complicated, but the bottom line is not. You need protection from UV rays and products with an SPF may not be perfect, but they are a step in the right direction. Dermatologists recommend the routine daily use of an SPF sunscreen.
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