TL;DR:
- UVB radiation causes sunburn, skin darkening, and discoloration; UVA radiation penetrates deeper, accelerates aging, causes dryness, capillary damage, and increases cancer risk (e.g., melanoma).
- Broad-spectrum protection (UVA+UVB) prevents aging signs and reduces skin cancer risks. Sunburns before age 15 double melanoma risk.
- Sunscreen types:
- Physical (mineral): Titanium dioxide, zinc oxide (newer formulas avoid whitening effect).
- Chemical: UVB filters (e.g., salicylic acid), UVA filters (e.g., dibenzoylmethane), and broad-spectrum filters (e.g., benzophenones).
- Natural filters: Shea butter, oils, plant extracts, antioxidants (e.g., vitamins E, C).
- Use SPF 50 for fair or sunburn-prone skin. Apply at least two-finger-length strips on skin every 2–3 hours. Allow absorption before dressing.
- Diet with antioxidants: nuts, oils, berries, carrots, spinach, etc., supports skin protection.
In the early 2000s, a strong tan, acquired in the sun or at a tanning bed, was definitely in fashion. Today, fortunately, awareness of the harmful effects of UV radiation is much greater. Why should you apply cosmetics that provide sun protection every day? What happens if we don't remember to do so? In this article we will take a closer look at the SPF filters that should be in every cosmetic bag.
How does UV radiation affect the skin?
When we go out in the sun, we expose ourselves to two types of radiation: UVB and UVA. UVB radiation is mainly absorbed by the stratum corneum, although a small portion reaches the basal layer. It is this type of radiation that causes erythema and sunburn. UVB radiation stimulates melanocytes to work, making the skin darker. For many people, this is a desirable effect, but it is actually a defensive reaction of the skin. The sun can also cause permanent skin discoloration, most commonly on the face, neck, décolleté, hands or arms. UVA radiation has a longer wavelength, so it reaches deeper into the dermis. It causes the formation of free radicals, damages collagen structure and leads to faster skin aging. Lack of sun protection causes deep wrinkles to appear, the skin loses its water-binding capacity and becomes dry. UVA radiation can also lead to damage to capillaries and disruption of the skin's blood supply. If we want to enjoy beautiful, firm skin for a long time, it is worth remembering not only treatments such as facial volumetry, but also prevention: aging cannot be avoided, but with sun protection it can be slowed down. It should also not be forgotten that UV radiation increases the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma. Studies show that if by the age of 15, we have had at least 2 sunburns, the risk of melanoma increases about twofold.
Types of sunscreens available in cosmetics.
Different types of filters can be found in cosmetics for sun protection. Which ones and how do they differ? Among other things, physical (mineral) filters appear in cosmetics. In the past, they were criticized for whitening the skin, because their large particles scatter not only UV radiation, but also visible light. Today, however, technologies in the cosmetics industry have made it possible to eliminate the bleaching problem. Popular physical filters include titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. In addition to mineral filters, chemical filters are also used, which absorb the energy of sunlight. They are divided according to the wavelength of the absorbed radiation. Among others, UVB filters are used, which mainly prevent erythema and skin burns. Here we mainly use derivatives of p-aminobenzoic acid, p-methoxycinnamic acid, salicylic acid and camphor. There are relatively few UVA filters available on the market, among which dibenzoylmethane derivatives and benzylidene camphor predominate. A comprehensive solution is broad-spectrum (UVA+UVB) filters. These include benzophenones and phenylbenzotriazoles, which absorb both UVA and UVB radiation. Interestingly, not only synthetic substances, but also natural ones have a radioprotective effect. These include, for example, Shea butter, cocoa butter, argan and macadamia oil or avocado. Extracts of sand blanket, green tea, saffron, chamomile or Aloe vera are also used. Antioxidants are also used as part of sun protection, since one of the negative consequences of UV rays is the production of free radicals. Therefore, it is worth using cosmetics that penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin and neutralize the action of free radicals. Such antioxidants as vitamins E and C, flavonoids, coenzyme Q10 and β-carotene work well here. It is worth taking care of antioxidants not only in cosmetics, but especially in the diet. They can be found in such products as:
- Vegetable oils,
- Avocados,
- Nuts, pumpkin and sunflower seeds,
- Kiwis, strawberries, chokeberries, blueberries, grapefruits, apricots, dark grapes,
- Carrots, spinach, pumpkin, red bell peppers.
How to use a cream with SPF?
The most important thing is to choose the product according to the needs of the skin. If we go to a specialist, any good cosmetologist will determine the phototype and skin type to be sure how high SPF we need. The popularity of SPF 50 in Poland is mainly due to the predominant complexion in our country – most Poles have a fair complexion and a tendency to tan red. Don't be fooled by cosmetics that supposedly provide 100% protection from the sun's rays: SPF 50 is the highest possible level of photoprotection. It is also very important to apply the cream correctly, because a common practice is to apply a minimal amount, and then the product does not provide the protection claimed by the manufacturer. A simple way to do this is to apply two strips of cream on the face, neck and décolleté, the length of the index and middle finger. Re-application every 2-3 hours is also recommended. Many manufacturers also note to apply the cream at least a few minutes before getting dressed so that it has time to absorb. Beautiful, sunny weather improves the mood and encourages spending time outdoors. However, it is worth remembering that in order for the sun to serve us and not harm us, creams that protect against UVA and UVB rays will come in handy.
Conclusion
UV protection is your best tool for keeping skin healthy, youthful, and safe. Without it, risks like sunburn, premature aging, and even melanoma greatly increase. I’ve shared why SPF matters, how UV radiation harms the skin, and which filters to look for. Now it’s your turn—choose the right sunscreen, apply it properly, and stay consistent. Protecting your skin isn’t complicated; it’s a long-term investment in your health. Start today and enjoy the benefits for years to come.
