Unlocking the secrets of SPF

At MJ Exposé Health & Beauty, we're all about helping you look and feel your best. And when it comes to maintaining healthy, radiant skin, one of the most important steps you can take is incorporating SPF into your daily skincare routine. Whether you're soaking up the sun on a beach vacation or facing a cloudy day, the golden rule remains the same: apply sunscreen daily. In this article, we'll delve into the world of SPF, debunk some common misconceptions, and introduce you to our top sunscreen picks for your skin.

What Does SPF Stand For?

Let's start with the basics. SPF stands for “Sun Protection Factor.” But here's the catch: if you use SPF 100, that doesn't mean 100% protection. While SPF 100 protects 99% of sun rays, a SPF 50 protects 98% of rays. In simple terms, SPF indicates how long it would take for your skin to redden from UVB rays when wearing sunscreen compared to not using any sunscreen at all. For example, SPF 30 provides twice the UVB protection of SPF 15, assuming you apply it in the right amount and reapply as recommended.

The Importance of Broad Spectrum

When selecting a sunscreen, make sure it's labeled as “Broad Spectrum.” This means it protects your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are present year–round, even on cloudy days, and are responsible for premature aging. UVB rays, on the other hand, are associated with sunburn and are more intense during peak hours and at higher altitudes. Broad Spectrum sunscreen acts as a shield against both types of harmful rays, ensuring comprehensive protection.

Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreens

Sunscreen comes in two main types: mineral (physical) and chemical. Mineral sunscreens create a protective barrier on your skin's surface, reflecting and blocking UV rays. Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, absorb UV rays and neutralise their effects. Both types are suitable for various skin types, but it's essential to apply chemical sunscreens at least 30 minutes before sun exposure to allow them to bind properly. Some common chemical filters include Avobenzone, Homosalate, Oxybenzone, Octisalate, Octinoxate, Octocrylene, and Omosalate.

Mineral sunscreens provide immediate protection and are suitable for immediate application before sun exposure. Some mineral sunscreens use nano–sized particles to absorb and scatter UV light, while others use larger non–nano particles that won't penetrate your skin, offering a safer and equally effective option. Key mineral filters include Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide.

Applying Sunscreen: Best Practices

When it comes to applying SPF, here are some best practices to follow:

• Use about a half teaspoon per application, ensuring you achieve the labeled protection.
• Apply liberally to your face and neck at least 15 minutes before sun exposure.
• Reapply every two hours, and more frequently if swimming or sweating.
• If you're mixing SPF with makeup, apply the sunscreen separately and let it dry completely before layering makeup. Combining them can dilute the protection.

Debunking SPF Rumours

Let's clear up some common misconceptions:

• Vitamin D: Wearing sunscreen daily doesn't prevent your skin from absorbing Vitamin D. You can still get your daily dose of Vitamin D while protecting your skin.
• SPF 100: Using SPF 100 doesn't mean 100% protection. It only provides 99% protection, while SPF 50 offers 98%. Achieving complete sun protection is impossible, even with the right amount of sunscreen.

Go Beyond SPF

At MJ Exposé Health & Beauty, we offer a Sun Protection collection that goes beyond basic SPF. Our moisturizing sunscreens provide broad–spectrum protection while offering targeted skincare benefits to enhance your skin's overall health and radiance. Unsure which SPF is right for you? The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends SPF 15 for indoor days with occasional sun exposure and SPF 30 or higher for outdoor activities. Our SPF products deliver the recommended protection and more.

Here are some of our top sunscreen picks:

1. ZO Primer + Sunscreen - Broad–spectrum protection against UVA/UVB rays and high–energy visible (HEV) light. - Contains melanin to shield skin from HEV light and provides a silky matte finish. - Includes antioxidants to protect against free radical damage and support DNA integrity. - Suitable for all skin types.

2. MCCM Medical Cosmetics Sun Cream 50+ (Oil–Free) - Moisturising and protective, suitable for all skin types. - Ideal for skin post–surgical treatments, laser therapy, or chemical peels. - Offers protection against UVB and UVA radiation, preventing photoaging and blemishes. - Contains ingredients like Urea, Serine, Glycerin, Allantoin, Tocopheryl Acetate, Mimosa Tenuiflora.

3. MCCM Medical Cosmetics Sun Cream 50+ (Airless) - Moisturising and protective, suitable for all skin types. - Ideal for skin post-surgical treatments, laser therapy, or chemical peels. - Offers protection against UVB and UVA radiation, preventing photoaging and blemishes. - Contains ingredients like Urea, Serine, Glycerin, Allantoin, Tocopheryl Acetate, Mimosa Tenuiflora.

4. MCCM Medical Cosmetics Sun Cream 50+ Coloured - Moisturising and protective with a touch of color, suitable for all skin types. - Ideal for skin post-surgical treatments, laser therapy, or chemical peels. - Offers protection against UVB and UVA radiation, preventing photoaging and blemishes. - Contains ingredients like Urea, Serine, Glycerin, Allantoin, Tocopheryl Acetate, Mimosa Tenuiflora.

5. mesoestetic mesoprotech® Light Water Antiaging Veil - Ultra–light anti–aging emulsion with SPF 50+. - Suitable for normal and combination skins. - Forms an invisible protective film on the skin. - Contains hyaluronic acid, collagen pro–47, and mesoprotech® complex.

6. mesoestetic mesoprotech® Mineral Matt Antiaging Fluid - Light anti–aging emulsion with SPF 50+. - Suitable for sensitive, combination, and oily skins. - Provides a powdered finish and absorbs excess oiliness and shine. - Contains collagen pro–47 and mesoprotech® complex.