TL;DR
- Sunscreen helps protect your skin from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays, including UVA and UVB.
- Broad-spectrum sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
- SPF tells you how well a sunscreen protects against UVB rays, but it doesn’t mean you can skip reapplication.
- Applying sunscreen correctly and using other sun protection measures can help you stay protected while enjoying time outdoors.
You know you’re supposed to wear sunscreen when you’re heading outside. But have you ever stopped to wonder what does sunscreen do?
The short answer is an obvious one – it helps protect our skin from the sun, but how does it do that and are there other benefits that sunscreen can offer?
It’s more than something you put on before a day at the beach. Sunscreen helps protect your skin from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays, including UVA and UVB rays.
And while no sunscreen means you can stay in the sun all day without a care, using it as directed is an important part of staying sun safe.
Here’s what sunscreen does, how SPF fits into the picture, and how to make sure you’re getting the protection you expect.
So, what does sunscreen actually do?
The sun gives off UV radiation, and too much exposure can affect your skin. UVB rays are a major cause of sunburn, while UVA rays can contribute to skin aging and other skin damage.
Sunscreen is designed to help protect exposed skin from UV radiation. A broad-spectrum sunscreen helps protect against both UVA and UVB rays, giving you coverage against the two types of UV radiation most commonly discussed when it comes to sun protection.
Of course, sunscreen isn’t the only way to protect your skin. Spending time in the shade, wearing protective clothing, a hat, and sunglasses can all be part of a sun-safe routine.
How does sunscreen protect your skin?
Not all sunscreens use the same type of active ingredients.
Mineral sunscreens use mineral active ingredients to provide UV protection. For example, Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral SPF 50 Spray uses 24% zinc oxide as its active ingredient. It provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection and is specifically formulated for sensitive skin.
The spray also dries clear and is enriched with organic aloe. It’s made without fragrance, parabens, or drying alcohols, making it an option for people looking for a mineral sunscreen formulated with sensitive skin in mind.
What does SPF 50 mean?
SPF is one of the first things you’ll notice on a sunscreen bottle. SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, measures protection against UVB rays, which are a major cause of sunburn. An SPF 50 sunscreen offers a high level of UVB protection when applied as directed.
But don’t let that number fool you into thinking SPF 50 means you can apply sunscreen once and just forget about it for the day.
Sunscreen wears away with time when you sweat, swim, or towel dry your body and face. That’s why reapplication is important, regardless of the SPF number.
Does sunscreen stop sunburn?
Sunscreen helps protect your skin from UV radiation and can help reduce the chance of sunburn when used correctly. But it’s not a reason to spend unlimited time in direct sunlight.
Think of sunscreen as one part of your overall sun protection routine.
The product directions for Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral SPF 50 Spray recommend limiting time in the sun, particularly between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., and wearing long-sleeved shirts, pants, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses.
That way, you’re not relying on sunscreen alone to do all the work.
How much sunscreen do you need?
Even a good sunscreen won’t do much if you don’t use enough of it. But for general sunscreen application, a useful rule is about 1 ounce, or one shot glass, for the body and 1/4 teaspoon for the face.
And if you are using a spray? There are a few extra things to keep in mind.
With Spray, shake the container well before and frequently during use. Hold it about 4 to 6 inches from your skin, spray liberally, and rub it into the skin. Apply it about 15 minutes before sun exposure.
And don’t spray it directly onto your face. Spray it onto your hands first, then apply it to your face. Be mindful to use it carefully in windy conditions so you don’t end up inhaling it.
When should you reapply sunscreen?
This is where a lot of sunscreen routines go wrong.
You should reapply at least every 2 hours. If you’re swimming or sweating, reapply after 80 minutes. You should also reapply immediately after towel drying.
So if you’re spending the day at the pool, playing a sport, hiking, or simply working up a sweat outside, sunscreen needs to be part of the routine, not a one-and-done step.
Looking for mineral SPF 50 protection?
If you have sensitive skin and prefer a mineral sunscreen, Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral SPF 50 Spray offers broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection with zinc oxide as its active ingredient. It’s formulated for sensitive skin, dries clear, and provides 80 minutes of water resistance.
The spray format also makes it convenient to apply to your body before heading outside, whether you’re spending the day outdoors or simply running errands in the sun.
Sunscreen is one part of staying sun safe
So, what does sunscreen do? It helps protect your skin from the sun’s UV rays, including UVA and UVB, when you choose a broad-spectrum formula. The most immediate payoff of daily sunscreen is protection from painful sunburn.
You only get one skin! Look after it and apply your sunscreen correctly and daily. Give your skin some extra help with shade, clothing, a hat, and sunglasses.
Because enjoying the outdoors and taking care of your skin can go hand in hand.
