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The ultimate guide to choosing the right protection for your skin
As summer approaches, our team at Bloom Medical Aesthetics has one request for you:
Please put sunscreen on your shopping list. And on your body. And on your face.
It's the #1 tip we give our clients. If there's one thing you should do for your skin every day, its SPF. Why? Well, it's the number one way to prevent premature skin aging and skin cancer.
And there's so many optons out there now! It can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your skin. So, in this guide, we'll dive into the world of SPF sunscreen, exploring the different varieties and helping you make an informed decision to keep your skin safe and healthy under the sun.
Why am I telling you this? Well, first of all, I'm a skincare expert and owner of Bloom Medical Aesthetics. You can learn a little more about what we do here. But, more importantly, I care! About you, and about your skin. Let's get into it.
WHAT IS SPF?
SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, measures a sunscreen's ability to protect your skin from harmful UVB rays, which cause sunburns. The number associated with SPF indicates how long it takes for your skin to redden compared to not wearing sunscreen. For example, SPF 30 means it will take 30 times longer to burn than if you weren't wearing any sunscreen at all. Here at Bloom we recommend a minimum SPF of 30, in fact our favorites from Revision and Image all start at 30 and above.
TYPES OF SPF SUNSCREEN:
Broad Spectrum: Look for sunscreens labeled as "broad spectrum," which protect against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and are responsible for premature aging, while UVB rays primarily cause sunburn. Neither of which do you want to impact your skin, especially on your face.
Chemical Sunscreens: These sunscreens contain organic compounds that absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat, which is then released from the skin. Chemical sunscreens are often lightweight and easy to apply but may cause irritation in sensitive skin types.
Physical Sunscreens: Also known as mineral sunscreens, these formulas contain active mineral ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which sit on the skin's surface and reflect UV rays away from the skin. Physical sunscreens are ideal for sensitive skin and provide immediate protection upon application. We are HUGE fans of the Intellishade Mineral sunscreen from Revision with an SPF rating of 50. Rebecca’s everyday go-to is Image’s Daily Prevention tinted mineral sunscreen SPF 30, whether it is sunny, rainy, or snowing; each and every day, she applies this in place of foundation or makeup since it provides a beautiful evening to her skin tone.
Water-Resistant: If you'll be swimming or sweating, opt for a water-resistant sunscreen to ensure longer-lasting protection. Keep in mind that no sunscreen is entirely waterproof, so reapplication is necessary after swimming or excessive sweating. In fact reapplication is key with all sunscreen products. You don't just apply once and you're good for the day. REAPPLY! The Daily Prevention hydrating pure mineral sunscreen does not leave you with a white cast to your skin, and allows for 80 minutes of water resistance.
HOW BLOOM CAN HELP YOU
When it comes to protecting your skin its important to choose a high-quality sunscreen product that offers broad-spectrum protection. Here at Bloom we carry Revision Skincare which offers a range of sunscreens that not only protect your skin from UVA & UVB rays, but also provides additional benefits such as hydration, anti-aging properties, and antioxidant protection. As an added benefit, all Revision products are dermatologist-tested, backed by science, and free of parabens, fragrances, and other potentially irritating ingredients.
Similarly, Image Skincare, which we also proudly carry, offers a range of sunscreens providing much needed sun protection while also addressing many common skin concerns. The popular Prevention+ Daily Tinted Moisturizer provides the protection from the sun you want, while also offering a sheer tint to even out skin tone and provide a natural, healthy glow. This lightweight formula is perfect for daily wear and all skin types. If you struggle with dry or dehydrated skin their Daily Hydrating Moisturizer provides antioxidant protection to help lock in moisture and keep the skin looking and feeling healthy.
WHAT'S THE RIGHT SPF SUNSCREEN FOR A DAY OF FUN IN THE SUN?
For fair skin: If you have fair skin that burns easily, opt for a higher SPF, such as 50 or above, and reapply every two hours.
For medium to dark skin: While individuals with darker skin tones have a higher natural SPF, it's still essential to wear sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect against sun damage and skin cancer.
For sensitive skin: If you have sensitive skin, choose a physical sunscreen with minimal ingredients to reduce the risk of irritation.
For outdoor activities: If you'll be spending extended periods outdoors, consider a higher SPF and water-resistant formula to ensure adequate protection.
IN CONCLUSION
No matter your skin type or lifestyle, wearing sunscreen is crucial for protecting your skin from the sun's harmful rays. By understanding the different types of SPF sunscreen and choosing the right one for your needs, you can enjoy the outdoors safely while maintaining healthy and radiant skin for years to come. If you're looking for a little tint or no tint, our curated collection of SPF options from both Revision & Image Skincare lines allow us to provide you with the best options for whatever your adventures take you. Remember to reapply sunscreen regularly, seek shade during peak sun hours, and wear protective clothing for comprehensive sun protection.
SPF IS YOUR BFF
Come see us to snag some of our highly reccommended sunscreen products. And if you need any additional help getting the glow you've always wanted, learn more about the products and services we offer at Bloom Medical Aesthetics, or book an appointment with us today.
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