SPF is a crucial skincare product, but have you ever wondered why? This simple product has many benefits that are essential to your skincare routine. In this guide, you will learn everything you need to know about SPF and how to use it. Let’s get started!
What Is SPF?!
Great question! What is SPF? SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. It is a way of measuring how well your skin is protected from the sun’s harmful UV rays. These rays can cause a lot of skin damage, premature aging and in some cases, skin cancer. That’s why it’s so important to wear sunscreen and be one step ahead in protecting your skin. Sunscreen also helps prevent sunburn, which can be incredibly damaging to your skin.
Sunscreen comes in various forms, including lotions, sprays, and sticks. To find your perfect SPF, there are many types formulated for all skin types, from dry to oily and sensitive skin!
SPF To Look For
Now that you know what SPF is, let’s go over the best type to use. This determines the amount of coverage your skin receives from the SPF.
What’s recommended by dermatologists is to use SPF 30 or higher. SPF 50 is another great option and will protect you from around 98% of UV rays. On the other hand, SPF 30 will protect you from 96.7% of UV rays, which is a small difference.
Which SPF Is For You:
Let’s go over which formula is best for your skin type!
- Dry Skin: Look for cream-based liquid formulas! They will protect your skin while providing hydration to your dry skin.
- Oily Skin: Powder SPF is best for you! It helps to minimize oil and shine, while still protecting your skin. If you want a liquid formula, make sure it is oil-free before purchasing to avoid making your skin look and feel too oily.
- Combo Skin: When it comes to combination skin, things can get tricky because you’re dealing with two skin types! To accommodate for your skin type, purchase a gel-based and oil-free SPF with a matte finish. This kind of SPF helps minimize oil and shine while keeping your skin protected.
- Acne Prone Skin: On the other hand, those with acne-prone skin should look for lightweight and oil-free formulas. It’s important to find a product that is effective without feeling heavy. A gel-based or liquid-based formula is recommended, as they tend to be lighter and less likely to weigh down the skin or cause discomfort. Additionally, it’s important to choose an SPF that is non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores or cause breakouts.
- Sensitive Skin: If you have sensitive skin, it’s important to use an SPF that is mineral-based and free of chemicals to avoid irritation. Make sure your SPF is fragrance-free and hypoallergenic to prevent further irritation. Additionally, choose an SPF that is non-comedogenic to avoid breakouts and irritation.
How To Use
In Skincare:
- Wash your face: Always make sure to wash your face before applying any skincare products, so you can start with fresh skin.
- Moisturize: After washing your face, apply a moisturizer to your skin.
- Apply SPF: Lastly, apply a generous amount of SPF to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Blend until fully absorbed for glowing skin!
Applying SPF to your body:
- It depends on what type of SPF you have, but the same applies to all types. Make sure to completely cover your body in SPF and blend it in if you have to!
- If you’re swimming or outside make sure to reapply every few hours. Check the label, usually, it’s stated how long you have to reapply again.
Makeup SPF Is NOT A Replacement!
One thing we want to clarify is that makeup SPF is not a replacement for actual SPF. The SPF formulated into makeup is typically only SPF 15, which is not nearly enough protection for your skin. It’s a great addition to use over SPF, but not a substitute for it!
SPF Lip Balm
Lastly, let’s go over lip balm! Your face is now protected, but in addition to that, it’s important to think about your lips. To provide protection to your lips use a SPF Lip Balm.
Now you know all about SPF and how to use it! It’s an amazing product that is crucial to the well-being of your skin, especially in the warmer months. And don’t forget to subscribe to the Beginner’s Guide to Makeup to stay up-to-date on the latest makeup tips for beginners!
