Busting SPF Myths

SPF should be 30 or higher and be reapplied every two hours.
SPF should be 30 or higher and be reapplied every two hours.

As summer approaches, it's important for clients to be aware of what their skin needs and with social media it's hard to find the real facts about SPF.

Natalia Sadowski, a licensed medical esthetician, skin care therapist and director of aesthetics and education for NB Naturals, busted some summer skin care myths.

Sunscreen Is Only Needed In The Summer

Apply an SPF of at least 30 everyday in order to protect your skin, regardless of the season. 

Even with cloud coverage on snowy winter days, sun is still able to affect the skin, with up to 80% of UV rays burning right through the clouds.

SPF-Infused Makeup Is Enough

SPF in makeup and skin care products are not enough. The SPF in these products are not at a high percentage and cannot offer the full protection skin needs.

According to Sadowski, sunscreen needs to act as a reflective barrier on top of the skin. Sunscreen, unlike most skin care products, should not penetrate into the skin. So, for the moisturizers with SPF, either the product isn’t as powerful as it is marketed, since it doesn’t penetrate the skin, or it is penetrating toxic ingredients into the skin from the sunscreen.

The best option is to use a separate sunscreen on top of everyday moisturizer.

No Need to Reapply 

In order to fully protect your skin, you also need to be reapplying your sunscreen every two hours.

Clients can look for reapplying methods such as sprays or powders to go over their makeup or for an easy on-the-go application.

Related: Survey Shows Consumers Need Sunscreen Education

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