How to properly use SPF in summer and protect your skin from the sun
Kyiv • UNN
A dermatovenereologist recommends using SPF 50 with broad-spectrum protection in summer. She emphasizes the need to apply the product 15-20 minutes before going out and to reapply every two hours.
Summer is a period of active sun, when the skin especially needs protection from ultraviolet radiation. At the same time, many people still use sunscreen incorrectly or only remember it while relaxing on the beach. Dermatovenerologist, cosmetologist, and anti-aging expert Maria Borysova told UNN in detail how to choose SPF correctly, how best to apply it, and why this product should be part of daily skincare.
According to the doctor, during the summer period, preference should be given to products with a high level of protection, and it is important to pay attention not only to the SPF number but also to the product's spectrum of action.
"In summer, I recommend SPF 50. SPF 50 provides a high level of protection against UVB rays, and most importantly, pay attention that the product has a broad spectrum of protection (UVA + UVB). It is UVA that is responsible for photoaging, pigmentation, and collagen breakdown,"
The effectiveness of a sunscreen depends not only on its characteristics but also on the correctness of its use. Maria Borysova named applying an insufficient amount of product as one of the most common mistakes, and because of this, the level of protection can be significantly lower than stated by the manufacturer.
"The main mistake is applying the product in dots or too little. For the face, you need approximately one finger length. Apply SPF 15-20 minutes before going outside, not forgetting the ears, neck, and décolleté area. They also want to stay young!" – explained the dermatovenerologist.
The doctor advises paying special attention to choosing a product depending on the area of application and skin type. For example, formulas for the face and body can differ significantly in texture and composition.
"The difference is primarily in the formulas. Products for the face are usually lighter, non-comedogenic, often contain skincare ingredients, and feel more comfortable on the skin. SPF for the body can be denser and work great on the body, but may be too heavy for the face," – emphasized Maria Borysova.
It is also important to consider individual skin characteristics to make using SPF comfortable.
"For oily and problem skin, it is better to choose light fluids or sprays and обязательно non-comedogenic formulas. For dry skin, these are creamy textures with moisturizing ingredients. Combination skin is usually more comfortable with light creams. Often patients do not apply SPF because it is uncomfortable on the skin, so it is extremely important to choose the optimal option," – stressed the dermatovenerologist.
Maria Borysova also emphasized that in hot weather or during active time outdoors, protection needs to be renewed more often. This is especially relevant for those who play sports, sweat a lot, or spend time near water.
"On average, SPF needs to be renewed every two hours. If you are actively sweating, swimming, or wiping your face with a towel, then even more often. Most often, people apply too little product or do not renew it during the day. Another common mistake is using SPF only on the beach. As a result, they get not only sunburns but also pigmentation, faster skin aging, and collagen breakdown. Therefore, SPF protection is not about using it on the beach, but about daily care with the prevention of early aging in the future,"
The specialist emphasizes that sunscreen is not a seasonal option for relaxation, but an important element of daily care, and regular and correct use of SPF helps preserve the health and youth of the skin for a long time.