YES-PF or SPF - This three lettered word can do wonders to keep our skin healthy and youthful. This article will provide an in-depth look at how SPF works and the urgency to use it on routine basis. 

What is SPF?

Ultra violet (UV) rays from sun can be violent and harsh on our skin even during cloudy weather and on days when we stay inside. UV rays are the main culprit behind all signs of aging such as skin pigmentation, wrinkles, freckles, dull skin and even skin cancer. The two types of UV rays that contribute towards skin cancer include UVA and UVB rays; UVA acts as a catalyst for skin aging while UVB can leave the skin burned and tanned. The UVA rays make up around 95 percent of all the UV radiations and are present throughout the year during the day light and can pass through the cloud cover and windows as well. 

The three lettered term SPF is used for sun protection factor and provides a measure of how much protection a product can provide against UVB rays when applied sufficiently onto the skin. The broad spectrum SPF products provide protection against UVA as well. 

SPF - The Must Ingredient in Skincare Routine

Following all the steps of a skincare routine from deep cleansing, then toning, applying a good hydrating mask and a nice moisturizer is a total wastage of money and time if SPF is being missed during the day.  Because in that case, UV rays will penetrate deep into the skin and pose risk to destroy all the vital elements such as “elastin” needed by the skin to stay youthful. 

Skin aging is an irreversible phenomena and it is necessary to add a broad spectrum SPF of at least 30 or higher into routine skincare. Harmful rays from the sun does not damage our skin on one ‘beach day’ but our daily activities and continuous outside exposure possess great capacity to do so. Our body cells replicate themselves as they are. So the cells damaged by UV rays will replicate in the same manner, producing cells with no or little collagen and other necessary antioxidants. 

Do People With Dark Skin Need To Wear Sun Protection?

To protect the skin from UVA rays which cause premature ageing inducing fine lines, wrinkles and worsening hyperpigmentation. UVB Rays burn the skin and can lead to potentially cancerous cell mutations.

Is Applying Sunscreen In The Morning is Enough?

Not really, sunscreen degrades over time, even in the sun. Sweating and touching your face also reduces its efficacy, so it’s best to top up during the day. If you have make up on you can always use a translucent SPF powder. It is very important to invest in a right sunscreen with a good SPF to keep skin healthy, wrinkle and blemish free.

What About People Living in Hotter Environment?

People living in hot environments will usually suffer from dull skin with acne breakouts as skin produces more sebum which combines with the dirt and results in clogged pores. A proper skin care routine followed by a dry touch and non comedogenic sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher might help skin against breakouts. Sensitive skin can get sunburned in less than 20 minutes but a good sun screen can create a shield and protect skin against tanning, fine lines and pigmentation.

So remember to wear SPF daily and you are good to go!