The best SPF for this summer?

Exposure to UV radiation is the leading cause of skin wrinkles and sagging with age. This is because UV radiation (composed of UVA and UVB radiation) causes sun burn, DNA damage, impairments of the skin barrier, trans-epidermal water loss, suppression of the immune system (inflammation), and destruction of collagen. In addition, sunlight also exposes the skin to visible light, which causes oxidative damage, and infrared radiation (IRR), which damages the skin through heat.

As our exposure to sunlight dramatically increases during the summer months, protecting the skin against these elements on a daily basis is essential.

Which sunscreen is the best?

SPF is essential for skin health.  This is because UV radiation (UVR) has many extremely damaging effects on the skin.  It dehydrates the skin, affects the skin tone (melanin synthesis and often leads to hyperpigmentation), causes the breakdown of key proteins (collagen), increases inflammation and oxidative damage.  It is actually estimated that 80% of the signs of aging seen on the skin with age comes from long-term exposure to the sun. UVR also mutates DNA and therefore, exposure puts individuals at risk for development of skin cancers. A broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects the skin from both UVA and UVB radiation will help protect the skin from sun burn and additional damage that can leads to disease and premature aging.

What are the key differences in suncream and sunspray and which is the best?

In theory, the main difference between a sun cream and a sun spray is the texture of the product and the way it is applied.  This is because the ingredients that offer sun protection (UV filters) must be present in any sunscreen formulation. The best sunscreen is the one you will actually use and re-apply properly.  It is possible with some spray formula’s for individuals to apply thinner layers of the product that are not adequate for full protection. In addition, when the formulation is clear, it is possible to miss areas of your skin. Therefore, a sun cream can be more effective for some.

Using daily sunscreen is one of the best habits to develop to protect your skin against sun burn, diseases caused by sun expose and premature aging.

How does it work?

All products will contains UV Filters.  These ingredients will either reflect or absorb UVR when the skin is exposed.  UV filters can protect against UVB radiation (280-315nm) and/or UVA radiation (315-400nm).  A broad spectrum sunscreen protects against UVA and UVB radiation.  Common UV filters are Zinc Oxide and Titanium Oxide; both of which protect against UVA+UVB radiation.  Otherwise, oxybenzone, octocrylene, octinoxate or avobenzone are commonly used but they lose some popularity as some can have harmful effects on coral reefs.

The protection offered by a sunscreen is defined by its SPF (Sun protection factor).  SPF refers to protection offered to UVB radiation and sun burning.  The SPF is tested in vivo with application thickness of 2mg/cm2.   It is important regardless of the type of sunscreen, that individuals are applying enough sunscreen to get protection from UVR.  In addition, exposure to sweat, water, towel drying, or other forms of abrasion will alter the protection offered by a sunscreen.  Sunscreen must be re-applied approximately every 2 hours.  

At least SPF 30 is recommended with 4 star UVA protection by the NHS.

What is the difference between cheap and expensive sunscreens?

Sophisticated sunscreen formulations will have added benefits and increase the levels of protection for the skin.  They will go beyond UVA/UVB protection, and can often protect against further wavelengths of light such as some visible light (blue light from electronics) or Infrared light (which also increases skin damage from the sun).  They often also contain powerful and stable antioxidant combinations.  These help to protects skin cells from free radical damage that is caused by exposure to the sun.

A great example of sophisticated sunscreen formulas with high level or protection against UVA, UVB, infrared, and visible light is Heliocare 360. The brand use a patented antioxidant combination to further increase protection. https://shop.dermoi.com/brand/heliocare/