The Basics of SPF
and Sun Care


The Basics of SPF and Sun Care

Sun care and skincare go hand-in-hand. Without proper sun care, adverse effects from UVA and UVB rays can enhance the visible signs of aging and dark spots that skincare seeks to minimize. It’s essential to complete each daytime skincare routine with proper SPF sunscreen and apply the appropriate after-sun care in the evenings to protect and enhance the skin’s natural radiance.

Learn the basics of SPF sunscreen and after-sun care with the products you love from Clé de Peau Beauté.

Why is Sun Care Important?

Sun care is a topic that’s widely discussed by dermatologists and oncologists alike. The sun produces natural energy called ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UV rays have shorter wavelengths than visible light; but even though we can’t see them, they can still be quite dangerous. There are two types of rays within the UV spectrum that damage the DNA in your skin cells and can cause skin cancer:

  1. UVA rays cause damage that leads to sunspots, wrinkles, and other visible signs of aging.
  2. UVB rays cause sunburn and play a predominant role in the development of skin cancer.

Proper sun care, such as sunscreen, is essential to protect the skin against the harmful effects of UVA and UVB rays. As the name might suggest, sunscreen is a product that shields the skin from UV rays produced by the sun. Sunscreen is very good for skin health, as it creates a barrier between sensitive skin cells and the invisible danger that is UV radiation. Sun care is vital skincare for all skin tones.

What is SPF Sunscreen?

When we discuss sun care, we often mention SPF. But what is SPF in sunscreen? Sun protection factor, more commonly referred to as SPF, is a measure of how well a sunscreen can protect the skin from harmful UV rays. The SPF number listed on a sunscreen mainly refers to the amount of UVB protection, whereas a broad-spectrum sunscreen shields against both UVA and UVB rays.

The SPF number is a reflection of how long it would take UV rays to burn the skin when wearing sunscreen versus without any sunscreen. As a general rule of thumb, the higher the SPF number, the longer it takes to burn.

Is SPF 30 enough to protect against sunburn? No sunscreen can prevent a sunburn – they only delay the onset, therefore the higher the SPF the longer the onset. An SPF of 30 or higher is recommended.

How Often Should You Reapply Sunscreen?

How much sunscreen to use on the face and how often to reapply sunscreen to exposed skin are very common questions in sun care. To begin, apply at least a nickel-sized amount to the entire face. SPF 30 sunscreen and above is ideal for the face, neck, and décolletage. People of all skin tones should apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going out in the sun.

It is recommended to reapply sunscreen every two hours. Activities such as swimming, sweating, or toweling can wear away sunscreen quicker, so one may wish to reapply sooner and more often. Reapply immediately if the skin begins to burn (and avoid additional sun exposure as quickly as possible).

What SPF Products Should You Use?

SPF sunscreen is a must in every daytime skincare routine, but it’s tricky to know what SPF sunscreen is best for the face. For days spent indoors with minimal UV radiation, opt for the lightweight Protective Fortifying Emulsion SPF 22 to support the skin’s natural protective barrier, or the richly textured Protective Fortifying Cream SPF 22 to provide hydration and protection.

For days spent outside, opt for an SPF sunscreen with higher protection, like the UV Protective Cream SPF 50+ on the entire face and Protective Lip Treatment SPF 25 on the lips.

Complexion Products with SPF for Daytime Wear

It's not just sunscreen that contains SPF. Discover how Clé de Peau Beauté complexion products with SPF can make daytime protection a simple step in an everyday makeup routine.

1. Prime and Protect

2. Cover and Smooth

3. Conceal and Protect

What is After Sun Care and Why is It Important?

How do you take care of your skin after being in the sun? After-sun care boosts natural radiance and enhances the skin’s innate ability to regenerate and restore moisture after UV exposure. Even with SPF protection, the sun’s rays can exaggerate dark spots and other visible signs of aging, like deep wrinkles and skin texture. After-sun care can help reduce the effects of UV radiation.

After a day in the sun, end the evening with the Brightening Mask Treatment Supreme, a two-step system that chemically exfoliates to remove dead skin cells, boost luminosity, and enhance resilience against further damage. Follow with the Concentrated Brightening Serum to target visible dark spots and moisturize the skin for up to 24 hours.

Radiant Skin Care is Reliable Sun Care

Healthy skin starts with reliable sun care protection. Discover the entire UV Care Collection from Clé de Peau Beauté for radiant skin that resists the effects of harmful UV rays.