There is often discussion about the use of suncream. Dermatologists swear by it, other disciplines sometimes point out the disadvantages of its use. Read here what, our skin expert, Caroline thinks about applying suncream.
WHAT IS AN SPF?
“SPF (Sun Protection Factor) and the number behind it represents the amount of time you can spend in the sun without burning. So if your skin normally burns after 10 minutes without protection, you can use SPF30 30 times 10 = 300 minutes in the sun before you burn. Not only is it important to protect against sunburn (UV-B) but also against exposing the skin to harmful radiation (UV-A).”
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SPF50 AND SPF30:
“It is important to know that an SPF50, filters approximately 99.8% of UV radiation where as an SPF30, filters 99.3%. So a protection factor of 30 is sufficient, as long as you reapply every 2 hours so that the factor remains at the required level.”
WHAT DOES AN SPF PREVENT?
“A sun protection cream, or simply called suncream, significantly reduces the risk of skin cancer. Which in my opinion is the most important reason to apply it. Furthermore, it prevents dehydration and premature aging of the skin (wrinkles). Finally, it also prevents hyperpigmentation, therefore a daily SPF on the face is a must if you suffer from pigment spots or a pregnancy mask.”
THEN WHY GO UNPROTECTED IN THE SUN?
“I am in favour of enjoying the sun unprotected, for various reasons. First of all, gently let the skin get used to the sun and build up its own protection mechanism. Darkening by sending melanin cells to the surface and thickening are the skin's natural protective responses to UV radiation. That's completely fine, as long as the skin doesn't burn, but it happens faster than you think. Furthermore, the production of vitamin D is also important. That is why I think it is advisable to be unprotected in the sun, but before 11:00 am and after 4:00 pm. In between, the sun is too strong and you burn easily. This is how your body still produces vitamin D. But beware, this does not apply if you are in certain places on Earth. That has to do with the position of the sun. A small tool: if your shadow is longer than you, you do not produce vitamin D. So it is not a bad idea to separate vitamin D production from sunlight and to take it in the form of natural supplements anyway. In the Netherlands we simply do not have much opportunity to produce vitamin D.”
NATURAL SUNCREAM?
“Of course I am a big supporter of using natural sunscreen instead of synthetic ones. Often the latter are unhealthy or downright toxic UV filters that are not only harmful to health but also to nature, such as coral reefs. They also usually contain perfumes that react with light or other harmful ingredients that are not okay for the skin, health or nature. Don't want or can't put anything on your skin? Then wear a sun hat and light clothing that covers the skin, as was done in the past.”
