Why you can’t rely on SPF for anti-aging

Sunscreen can help keep your skin youthful but there is one reason why you can’t rely on SPF for anti-aging.  Higher isn’t necessarily better!

What is SPF?

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor.  You see different numbers from 15 to 30 and all the way up to 100.  The problem with SPF is that it only provides you with a number for how well the product will help protect you from sunburn.  The SPF only shields from UVB rays – not UVA.  UVB rays can contribute to skin cancer but you also need to protect yourself from UVA rays.  This is why you can’t rely on SPF for anti-aging.  Plus, it’s actually possible that sunscreen is causing your wrinkles.

UVA rays and the broad spectrum label

UVA rays can get deeper in the skin and even though you won’t burn because there is SPF protection from UVB, you may still be damaging your skin because UVA rays are still getting in.  Sadly, you may have seen ‘broad spectrum’ on many labels of sun care products and this may have made you feel better for your purchase.  Unfortunately product labels aren’t regulated the way they should be lulling consumers into thinking they are protected.  Again, this is why you can’t rely on SPF for anti-aging.  If you want to protect your skin and keep your skin looking youthful, you have to take more measures.

Best sunscreen ingredient

So, how do you know which products to use?  According to the EWG, there is imperfect protection but there are some ingredients that are effective.  One of these is zinc oxide.  Not only is it helpful for people with sensitive skin but this ingredient also helps to block the UVA rays from penetrating your skin.

Avobenzone is also effective against UVA rays; however, it is one of the ingredients you’ll find in many sunscreens that you should avoid.  Therefore, it is recommended to stay away from these 6 ingredients in sunscreen.

Why you can’t rely on SPF for anti-aging

Since SPF really only guards us from sunburn, finding a broad spectrum sunscreen is better but since we know the labeling can be misleading, it would be much better to add more to your arsenal.  But, how?

• Wear clothing that covers your body.
• Find a wide brim hat and wear it!
• Stay out of the sun – even on cloudy days!
• Plan your time outside when UV is at it’s lowest.
• Wear sunglasses – good ones!

If you want to keep your skin looking youthful, doing these 5 things will help.  Clothing can shield you from the rays you’re trying to avoid.  In fact, they even have special clothing you can buy to make sure nothing gets in.  For example, say you wear a long-sleeved shirt but it’s on the thin side.  If that’s the case, UV rays can get through so it’s almost like not wearing anything.  Find thicker clothing or the ones that provide UV protection.

Also, wear that hat to keep sun out of your face, including your ears and neck.  Wearing sunglasses would also be beneficial.  Don’t go out in the sun during the hottest part of the day.  You can check for the UV index by going to weather.com.  And, don’t be lulled into thinking that you can’t harm your skin on cloudy days.  This just isn’t true.

Now you know why you can’t rely on SPF for anti-aging.  Be proactive about your skin care to Uncover your beautiful skin!  For more information, read about how to choose the best sunscreen.