While we remember to apply sunscreen when we're out on the beach, we often forget to protect our skin the rest of the time. Yet, ultraviolet rays are present regardless of the season. Incorporating SPF into your beauty routine is a great way to protect your skin from sun damage and prevent premature skin aging.
What is an SPF?
The acronym SPF comes from the English "sun protection factor" often translated as "sun protection factor" or "protection index". The SPF indicates the level of photoprotection of a sunscreen. Concretely, the higher the SPF, the more effectively the sunscreen blocks UVA and UVB rays, the longer it takes for the skin to get sunburned. There are 4 levels of photoprotection: low (SPF less than 15), medium (SPF between 15 and 25), high (SPF between 30 and 50) and very high (SPF greater than 50).
Please note that using a high SPF sunscreen does not mean that your skin is completely protected against radiation. Indeed, sunscreens can block some of it, but not all of it. The concept of total sunscreen is now banned because no cosmetic is capable of blocking 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Furthermore, not all skin types are equal when it comes to the sun. Their reactions to sun exposure differ depending on your skin type. Fair skin (phototype 1) is more sensitive and fragile than dark skin (phototype 4), which is less prone to sunburn.
Why is it important to protect your skin from the sun?
The sun has a positive effect on our mood, helping the body synthesize vitamin D and giving us a healthy glow. However, it is one of the main causes of skin aging. The skin is able to naturally and temporarily block some UVA and UVB rays, but when the rays reach the skin cells, they create free radicals that themselves cause oxidative stress within the skin. Proper cell division is impaired and the skin's ability to regenerate is compromised. The result: elastin and collagen production deteriorates, the skin sags, wrinkles and fine lines deepen, and hyperpigmentation appears here and there in the form of brown spots.
To protect yourself from the sun, there are several solutions:
Limit exposure time, especially between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., the hottest time of day, even if sunscreen is used.
Wear sunglasses, a hat or cap and long clothing.
How to incorporate SPF into your beauty routine?
Sunscreens
When we talk about SPF, we immediately think of sunscreen. Contrary to popular belief, sunscreen does not prevent tanning. On the contrary, it allows for an even and long-lasting tan while protecting the skin from radiation. Sunscreen is applied under day cream and, in the event of prolonged exposure, reapplied at regular intervals to maintain optimal protection.
Sunny sun care products offer effective photoprotection and a dreamy tan. Their lightweight, invisible textures leave an addictive sun-kissed scent on the face, making each application a pure moment of pleasure. Sunny products are formulated with skin-friendly UVA and UVB filters.
Facial care with sun protection
In addition to protecting the skin from the rays, facial care products with SPF can moisturize, even out the complexion, and smooth out the first wrinkles, just like traditional cosmetics. This way, you can combine photoprotection and a targeted response to a specific skin need in a single step. Coming straight from Japanese beauty routines that aren't fond of tanning, these products are applied like your usual skincare. However, be sure to reapply SPF throughout the day if you're exposed to the sun, for example, using sunscreen.
When choosing your beauty treatment with UV protection, consider the SPF index and your skin's specific needs. The Harmony Light Cream offers dark spot correction and sun protection in a single product with SPF 30. Made with hyaluronic acid and moonstone, it intensely hydrates the skin and reduces the appearance of pigment spots. Thanks to its carefully selected UVA and UVB filters, it also prevents their appearance. The skin is more harmonious and luminous.
Focus on CC Creams
Among facial products with sun protection, CC creams are the star of the show. In addition to correcting skin tone, these 3-in-1 products protect the skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays. They combine the benefits of a moisturizer, sunscreen, and foundation. A favorite with multi-use enthusiasts, they're suitable for all skin tones while providing effective UV protection.
The Tinted Radiance Cream SPF 15 unifies, protects, and illuminates the skin to reveal its natural radiance and give it a beautiful daily glow*. Enriched with organic goji berries, organic pomegranate, and acai berries, this clever treatment can be used alone or after your usual cream. The encapsulated pigments and pearlescent particles adapt to all skin tones. The fluid, silky feel offers custom coverage and an irresistible bare-skin effect.
Coming soon, the Anti-Redness CC Cream SPF 50 and the Perfecting Tinted Cream SPF 30 respectively camouflage redness and imperfections while protecting the skin from the sun's rays. Their ultra-fine textures melt onto the face and conform to the complexion for a tone-on-tone chameleon effect.
*glow
