Kosmetikanalyse: How to use sun protection properly

Experts are increasingly recommending sunscreens with higher sun protection factors (SPF) to ensure maximum safety. But is this assumption correct? In fact, the protection increases only slightly from SPF 20.

German Society for Skin Health e.V.:

SPF 20 provides a maximum protection of 96.0%

SPF 30 provides a maximum protection of 97.4%

SPF 50 provides a maximum protection of 97.8%

SPF 60 provides a maximum protection of 98.1%

Sunblocks offer a maximum protection of 98.6%

In addition, an SPF above 20 can significantly impair the important vitamin D production, which can lead to health deficiency symptoms.

It should also be noted that sunscreens with an SPF of over 20 often contain ingredients that are not skin- and health-friendly. For example, hormonally active and possibly carcinogenic substances such as octocrylene and others should be avoided at all costs. This is especially true for children whose protective skin barrier is not yet fully developed. (www.kosmetikanalyse.org)

There are many sunscreens that do not contain chemical sun protection filters. These include. They often use mineral sun protection or vitamin E, which is also considered a nutrient and has an anti-inflammatory effect, for example. Mineral sun protection filters can whiten a little when applied to the skin. If the cream is well distributed, this effect will quickly disappear. Basically, sunscreen must be rubbed thoroughly into the skin anyway to achieve a good effect.

It is important to reapply sunscreen regularly, as water, clothing and drying the skin can quickly reduce protection.

After sunbathing, the skin should also be treated with moisturising and nourishing after-sun products to counteract the sun-induced drying of the skin.

Aside from not staying too long in the sun, the kosmetikanalyse reminds sunbathers to give their skin regular breaks. In this way, they can promote a healthy tan and effectively protect the skin. There is no such thing as one hundred percent UV protection, it also said.

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