Although sunscreens are one of the most popular beauty products, you may not know the very basics of the sunscreens you are using. This article reveals some of the interesting facts that may amaze you.
More: 8 Misconceptions With Sunscreen That You Should Avoid
Sunscreen has a long life-span
Many people think that most cosmetics usually have an expiration date within 1-2 years. However, you may be very surprised to know this: Sunscreen may extend its “lifetime” up to 3 years. However, if you do not remember that when had you purchased such sunscreen products, it is certainly to check the expiry date. If their odors or colors change, it’s time to immediately throw them away into the waste bin.
Do not forget your fingernails
Along with your ears and scalp, fingernails or toenails are usually ignored when applying sunscreen. Remember that skin is easily damaged by skin cancer. Therefore, apply let the sunscreen cover all your skin.
The SPF is inaccurate
At the beginning of this year, according to information from Consumer Reports, half of the test sample of sunscreen shows that the SPF stated on the product packaging is inaccurate.
The ideal SPF is 30
You should choose sunscreens with an SPF of around 30. According to dermatologists, there is little difference among SPF 30, 50, and 100. In fact, SPF 30 protects your skin from 97% of UV rays from light sunshine. So using sunscreens with a higher SPF such as 50, 75, or 100 is not more effective.
Words as “waterproof” and “sweatproof” are illegal
FDA (Food and Drug Administration of the United States of America) has declared the new regulations in a sunscreen product line: words like “waterproof” and “sweat-proof” must be forbidden. Therefore, you must check carefully your sunscreen before shopping.
You may “sunscreen” for your hair
Having sunburnt hair and heavy damage makes your appearance unattractive. Not included dyed hair, sclerosis,…it looks worse. Therefore, use sunscreen for hair to protect hair better, and never forget to wear your hat when you are in the streets.
Physical and chemical sunscreens are the same
Both sunscreens have various advantages and disadvantages. Physical sunscreens contain mineral ingredients such as zinc, it helps reflect the impacts from UV radiation and reduce the number of UV rays affecting your skin exposed to the sunlight.
Meanwhile, chemical sunscreen tends to protect your skin with a chemical mechanism by absorbing UV rays energy before affecting your skin. It prevents UV rays from penetrating into your skin and forms a firm protective membrane layer to your skin free from harmful sunlight. Both types of sunscreen are certainly effective, the aesthetic experts, however, recommend that you use both to get the best efficiency.
SPF does not always protect you from the harmful effects of the sun
SPF indicates the period that your skin is protected in maximum under the effect of UVB rays to red irritated status. So, SPF does not give us protection against the effects of UVA radiation (UVB component accounting for 5%, UVA accounting for 95%). Since UVB and UVA have negative impacts upon the health of skin, especially UVA radiation accounts for 95% of UV rays and it is a major cause of skin aging, so you need to pay attention to protect the skin before 2 UVB and UVA rays.
European products should be purchased
The dermatologists recommend choosing sunscreens that are made in Europe because their protection against UVA rays is better and also your skin is protected effectively.
