Your Daily SPF Routine
When it comes to skincare, we all know how important it is to cleanse, tone, and moisturise. However, there is one crucial step that often gets overlooked: wearing sunscreen, also known as SPF. While it is crucial to wear SPF during summer when sun exposure is higher, it is equally important to make it a year-round practice. At Allcare Pharmacy, we understand the importance of sun protection and its benefits for our customers' health and well-being.
What is SPF?
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, and it is a measure of how well a sunscreen product protects the skin from harmful UV rays. The higher the SPF, the better the protection. Sunscreens are formulated to absorb or reflect UV radiation and prevent it from penetrating the skin. There are two types of UV rays that can damage the skin: UVA and UVB. UVA rays can cause premature aging and wrinkles, while UVB rays can cause sunburn and skin cancer. Sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB rays is called Broad Spectrum sunscreen. Where possible, it is advisable to use sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection.
Sun damage is one of the leading causes of skin damage, and it can have long-term effects on our skin health. Exposure to UV rays can cause skin cancer, premature aging, and skin discoloration. Wearing SPF daily can help protect your skin from these harmful effects. Even on cloudy days, up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate the skin, making it essential to wear SPF every day.
The benefits of wearing SPF daily
1. Prevents skin cancer
The most important benefit of wearing SPF daily is the prevention of skin cancer. According to the Irish Cancer Society, skin cancer is the most common cancer in Ireland. Nine out of every 10 cases are caused by UV rays from the sun or sunbeds. However, wearing SPF daily can significantly reduce your risk of developing the disease.
2. Reduces the risk of premature aging
UV radiation can cause premature aging, including wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots. Wearing SPF daily can help prevent these signs of aging by protecting the skin from UV rays.
3. Helps maintain an even skin tone
Exposure to UV rays can cause skin discoloration, including dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Wearing SPF daily can help prevent these issues, helping you maintain an even skin tone.
4. Protects against sunburn
Sunburn can be painful and can cause long-term damage to the skin. Wearing SPF daily can also help prevent sunburn and protect your skin from damage.
How to Incorporate SPF into Your Daily Routine
Here at Allcare Pharmacy, maintaining healthy skin by wearing SPF daily has been made easy! We offer a wide range of SPF products, such as creams, lotions, and sprays, to cater to every skin type and personal preference. Shop our range here.
What factor should I choose?
When choosing an SPF, it is essential to consider your skin type, the level of sun exposure, and the time of day. For everyday wear, an SPF of at least 30 is recommended. However, if you are spending an extended period in the sun, you may need a higher SPF like SPF 50. Additionally, it is important to reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially if you are swimming or sweating. If you are still unsure, our friendly and expert staff can help you choose the right product for your needs and answer any questions you may have about sun protection.