
Sunscreen was a true indication that summer had finally arrived as a kid. Now, it's the most important step in our skincare routine. Were you aware that even on a cloudy day, 80% of light still reaches earth, and that lightweight clothing like silk or cotton still allows the uv rays to still go through? Wearing sunscreen is the single most important thing you can do for your skin!
WHAT IS SPF?

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, basically the way we should measure the protection from the sun’s UV rays. There are two main sunscreens; keep in mind neither is “better” than the other, they simply use different active ingredients.
- Physical: Contains minerals (Zinc Oxide and or Titanium Dioxide) that sit on top of skin and reflect away UV rays.
-
Chemical: Contains ingredients (Avobenzone and Homosalate) that absorb and transform UV rays into heat.
There's two types of UV rays we should protect our skins from.
- UVA (think Aging): Responsible for fine lines and dark spots
- UVB (think Burning): Produces skin cancers and sunburns
SPF offers different levels of UV radiation protection. Which indicates a number typically found on a bottle; it informs you of the length of time and quantity of UV rays that would contact your skin.
SPF 15: Blocks 93% of UV Rays
SPF 30: Blocks 97%
of UV Rays
SPF 50: Blocks 98%
of UV Rays
For any prolonged outdoor exercise, the Skin Cancer Foundation advises using a water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
It is preferable to use anything with an SPF of less than 30 for daily use or in the winter. For example, here at King's Crown we carry Jack Black Double Duty Free Face Moisturize SPF 20, which is a lightweight moisturizer that contains broad spectrum sunscreen. Not only that it protects you from the sun during the day it helps to hydrate and improve your skins overall appearance.
WHY SPF IS BENEFICIAL FOR YOUR SKIN
SPF helps reduce your risk of skin cancer and protects your skin from sunburns and blisters. It also helps your skin void of inflammation, hyper pigmentation, redness, and early onsets of wrinkles and fine lines.
TIPS ON HOW TO AVOID THE BURN

It's important not to rely on high- SPF sunscreens alone. No single method of sun defense can protect you 100%. Here are some tips to help you not get burned.
- It's very important to apply a generous amount of sunscreen. Anywhere better two tablespoons to one shot glass of sunscreen should be applied on your skin 30 minutes before going outside then reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating.
- Try to avoid direct sunlight! The most you can do is stay under the shade (for example, by using the shadow of a tree, or an umbrella). At least between 10am and 4pm, when the sun is at its peak.
- Avoid tanning beds! It can cause skin cancer.
- Wear protective clothing, such as a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
We love the summer season and all the outdoor activities that come with it, but make sure you protect yourself & your skin! Dont leave home without applying your SPF.