Protecting Your Face from the Sun
Why do you need a special sunscreen for your face?
Summer or winter, your face is the body part that’s most exposed to the sun and therefore to UVA and UVB rays, which can seriously and permanently damage your skin. These rays are harmful to your health because they create oxidative stress in the skin. They can even alter your DNA!
- UVA rays can penetrate the deep layers of the skin and gradually break down its elasticity. They also cause premature aging, appearing as fine lines, wrinkles and age spots , as well as photosensitivity and sun allergies.
- UVB rays can produce very high quantities of free radicals, causing sunburns, aging of the skin and even cancerous melanoma cells or other cancers.
Every skin type and complexion reacts differently to sun exposure. By adding an everyday sunscreen for the face that's right for you, you'll reduce the negative impact of UVA and UVB rays on your skin.
Choosing the best face sunscreen
Creams, lotions, SPFs, synthetic or mineral filters: do you ever get confused by the range of available products? Read on for information that will help you choose the best sunscreen for your face!
Sun protection factor
Choose a sunscreen for the face with an SPF of at least 30. The sun protection factor (SPF) indicates the protection against the sun’s rays. The higher the SPF, the greater the protection against UVBs. However, you should know that the gain in protection is minimal above SPF 30 (SPF 30 blocks 96.7% of UVB rays, compared to 98% for SPF 50 and 98.3% for SPF 60).
Did you know?
A higher SPF doesn’t protect for more time!
Regardless of the SPF and the season, sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, as long as you are outdoors and after swimming or sweating during other sports.
UVA and UVB protection
Make sure the product offers full UVA and UVB protection. Look for the words “broad spectrum” or the UVA logo on the package.
What about synthetic or mineral filters?
Filters are the active ingredients in sunscreens that protect the skin from the harmful effects of UVA and UVB rays. There are two types:
- Synthetic (or chemical) filters transform UVA and UVB rays to make them harmless. Sunscreens that contain these filter act like sponges and absorb the sun’s rays.
- Mineral filters, like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, act like a shield on the skin’s surface by reflecting harmful rays.
Whether the ingredients in your sunscreen are synthetic or mineral, they are just as effective against UV rays.
Did you know?
In general, mineral filters are used in natural sunscreens and certified-organic products. While these physical sunscreens for the face used to leave oily skin and white streaks, those days are over thanks to improved formulas!
Choosing a formula
It is important to pick a sunscreen that suits your skin type and activities.
- Choose the best mineral sunscreen for the face if you have sensitive skin. In addition to having mostly natural ingredients, mineral sunscreens have a protective barrier that can keep the skin from reacting.
- The best face sunscreen for oily skin or acne-prone skin is a non-comedogenic cream since it won’t leave a greasy film behind.
- If your skin is exposed to the sun for several hours, choose a long-lasting cream with maximum protection. And remember, for face protection, you should reapply every two hours!
Choosing a type of protection for the face
Face sunscreens come in many forms. Each has benefits and drawbacks. Here’s some information to help you make a smart choice!
Thick and rich, creams moisturize the skin while protecting it from ultraviolet rays. However, some leave a thin white film on the face.
Pharmacy services
If you have any questions on sun protection products available in stores, talk to one of our beauty consultants.
The pharmacy services presented in this section are offered by pharmacist owners who are affiliated with Uniprix. The pharmacists are solely responsible for the professional activities carried out during the practice of pharmacy. These services are offered in participating pharmacies only. Certain fees and conditions may apply.
* The information contained herein is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide complete information on the subject matter or to replace the advice of a health professional. This information does not constitute medical consultation, diagnosis or opinion and should not be interpreted as such. Please consult your health care provider if you have any questions about your health, medications or treatment.