Spray or cream: which is the most effective sun protection product? To decide whether to use a cream or spray texture, it's important to consider various factors such as skin type, phototype, and habits typically observed on holiday, at the beach, or in the mountains. While sun cream is the iconic and evergreen product, new sun sprays contain blends of vegetable oils that promise not to dry out the skin. So, how do you choose the most effective sunscreens? Here are some valuable tips from Skinius.
Start with high-protection sunscreens
For years, high sun protection was demonized because it was thought to slow down tanning. In reality, SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is nothing more than a value determined by the time it takes for erythema to appear during simulated sun exposure. Clinical tests to establish the protection factor are carried out on a group of volunteers to whom sunscreen is applied. Skin reactions under UV rays are then monitored. In particular, the time it takes for sunburn to develop on protected skin compared to unprotected skin is monitored. For example, if erythema appears on protected skin 10 times longer than on unprotected skin, the SPF value is said to be 10.
The result is the value we see on the packaging of sunscreen products: the best ones usually have an SPF of 50 or 30. Beware of a product that promises 100 sun protection.
In the case of fair and sensitive skin, it is imperative to use high protection sunscreens, as well as if you are going on holiday to exotic paradises near the equator. Here, the sun's rays are more direct and invasive on the skin, and it is very important to choose a sun cream with SPF50. For darker phototypes, it is still recommended to apply SPF 50 sun protection for the first few days of sun and then possibly switch to SPF 30 sun protection.
Cream or spray: which are the most effective sunscreens?
To identify the best sun protection products suitable for your skin type, you need to understand your dermatological needs. Even if sunscreens are seasonal products, it is necessary to choose them carefully so as not to return from vacation with dehydrated or oilier skin than usual. Here's how to choose between sun cream and sun spray:
- Sun cream: recommended for dry and dehydrated skin and for the face. The best sun creams combine high protection with a lighter, fresher texture that is easily absorbed and penetrates deeply into the layers of the epidermis, keeping the skin hydrated and more resistant to UV rays.
- Sun spray: ideal for athletes, for those who are always on the go, and for those with combination/oily skin. Spray sun protection is more practical and versatile, which is why it is mainly used for body and hair products. The most innovative ones have invisible textures that are misted rather than spread.
Water resistant YES or NO?
The most effective sunscreens have the words "water resistant" on the packaging. This means that as soon as we enter the sea or pool, the sun filters do not degrade immediately and provide protection from UV rays even up to half an hour after swimming. If you dry yourself with a towel, the protective action is further weakened, which is why it is imperative to reapply sun cream or spray immediately after swimming, even if it is labeled water resistant. Dermatologists recommend applying high sun protection every two hours to ensure effective skin protection.
Eco-friendly protection: how to reduce environmental impact at the beach
The best sun protection products use chemical filters with low environmental impact in their formulations. Thanks to research and new technologies, it is possible to use high SPFs that are also respectful of the marine environment. Choosing a sunscreen of this type is essential to reduce the pollution of seas and oceans, protecting underwater flora and fauna and more. Plusolina is also an Italian dermatological invention that, thanks to the combination of particular vegetable oils, and therefore of natural origin, promotes a preventive and protective action on the skin against UV rays. It guarantees complete sun protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
The most suitable sun protection for children
First of all, in cosmetic terminology, "for children
Sunscreens for children must absolutely have high sun protection. It is precisely during childhood that UV rays, if absorbed without due precautions, can cause deep damage to the dermis that will manifest in adolescence or adulthood in the form of skin cancers. To prevent side effects of this type, follow these tips to protect your children's skin:
- Always prefer the application of sun protection products specifically for children.
- Use a hat and sunglasses.
- Avoid the central hours of the day and extend time under the umbrella.
- Also remember to hydrate on the beach with plenty of water and seasonal fruit and, upon returning, use a gentle after-sun for children.
Regarding the choice between sun cream or sun spray for children, for newborns, sun cream is preferable. For older children (from 36 months onwards) or simply for the livelier ones who love to play on the beach, a high-protection, water-resistant sun spray is an excellent choice.
Is it possible to apply adult sun cream to children as well? Sun protection products for children are specific and recommended for little ones, so it is preferable to apply tailored protection.