Sunscreen

Sunscreen protects the skin from the harmful effects of the sun, particularly UV radiation. A distinction is made between UVA and UVB radiation. UVA radiation penetrates deeply into the skin and can lead to premature ageing. UVB radiation reaches the upper skin layer, the epidermis, and is the main cause of sunburn. Therefore, it is important to use sun protection all year round. 

Do you prefer natural products? Here are the benefits of natural sunscreen and find the best natural sunscreens here.

How long you can stay in the sun without burning or suffering deeper skin damage varies according to skin type. There are four skin types:

• Skin Type 1: This skin burns very easily and hardly tans. People with this skin type often have very fair skin, blonde or red hair, and many freckles.
  Advice: use at least SPF 30 to spend about three hours in the sun. Using SPF 50 is safer.
  
  

• Skin Type 2: This skin burns fairly quickly and tans slowly. People with this skin type often have fair skin, blonde hair, and light eyes.
  Advice: use at least SPF 20 to spend about three hours in the sun. Using SPF 30 is safer.
  
  

• Skin Type 3: The skin rarely burns and tans easily. People with this skin type often have brown hair and dark eyes.
  Advice: use at least SPF 15 to spend about three hours in the sun. Using SPF 20 is safer.

• Skin Type 4: The skin hardly ever burns and tans very well. People with this skin type often naturally have a brown skin tone. 
  Advice: use at least SPF 10 to spend about three hours in the sun. Using SPF 15 is safer.

Most sunscreens are designed to work for about 2 hours. However, this can vary depending on factors such as the SPF, the degree of perspiration, the water resistance of the product, and the amount of sunscreen used. To ensure you're optimally protected, it's important to read the instructions on the product.

Moreover, you mustn't forget that you should apply sunscreen regularly, even if the sun isn't shining. UV radiation can still damage the skin, even when it's cloudy. Using sunscreen is therefore an important way to protect the skin against this damage. It is recommended to reapply sunscreen at least every two hours. Also, reapply the sun protection after swimming, intense sweating or after drying off with a towel.

Looking for a good routine? Read here how to make the most of your sun protection