If you’ve come here to read up about sunscreen after getting severely burnt and regretting every life choice you have ever made, you have come to the right place. And if you are of those who peeled instead of tanned, let’s take a moment of silence before we educate those who tanned without wearing sunscreen... or those who tanned at all (let’s be real it’s 2021).
But we know that there is ONE thing WORSE than tanning… BREAKOUTS!
Even after these poor life choices you will continue to say that
“Sunscreen makes me get acne”
“It’s too oily and greasy”
“SPF clogs my pores”
Let's set some facts straight
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, and it's how we gauge how well we're shielded from UVB and UVA radiation from the sun. UVB rays are blocked by SPF 15 by 93 percent, SPF 30 by 96.7 percent, and SPF 50 by 98 percent. Our experts recommend sticking to SPFs of 50+, which provide you with the highest possible protection (via sunscreen) from the sun.
The difference between physical and chemical sunscreen
Chemical sunscreen absorbs UV rays into the skin, turns them to heat, and then releases them from the body. Chemical sunscreens contain active chemicals such as avobenzone, octinoxate, and oxybenzone. In comparison, physical sunscreen that is applied to the skin rests on top of it and reflects the sun's rays. Physical blocks are mostly composed of the mineral’s titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.
Why it is SUPER important to be wearing sunscreen
Reduces risk of skin cancer
If you didn't already know, Australia has one of the world's highest rates of skin cancer. Wearing SPF is essential because it reduces the chance of skin cancer.
Australia has one of the world's highest incidences of skin cancer, before the age of 70, at least two-thirds of Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer. This is partly attributable to our environment, the fact that many of us have pale skin that isn't suited to such harsh conditions, our proximity to the equator (high UV levels), and our social attitudes and enjoyment of the outdoors.
Reduces signs of ageing
SPF is a miracle worker in multiple aspects, however let it be known by not wearing SPF you can age prematurely (cue intense suspenseful music)! We need to age like fine wine and to do so we need to apply SPF. Every. Single. Day.
Choosing the right SPF for your skin
- If you have dry to normal skin: Look for products with more hydrating ingredients in them, such as hyaluronic acid or glycerine. If you are more on the 'normal' side of dry, then you can probably use most sunscreens on the market without too much of an issue!
- If you have oily or combination skin: Hello acne prone besties! These are the babes that need to steer away from products that are going to cause congestion and add to flare ups. This is also the category that typically strongly dislike wearing sunscreen because it tends to grease them up and slides off during the day. These people should look for sunscreens that are oil free, light weight and non-comedogenic. This group will ideally want a product that soaks in quickly and leaves a semi-matte finish.
- If you have sensitive skin: Those with more sensitive skin may wish to stick to physical sunscreens. These sunscreens typically contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as these tend to be less irritating than some chemical filters. We also recommend steering clear of any fragrances if you are in this category!
Aside from that, you do you hun! Find what works for you and stick to it.
When it comes to choosing an SPF for our acne and oily prone hotties it can be a real struggle. There is nothing worse than feeling like you are being deep fried in a pot of greasy oil… trust me we know! That’s why we created Skin Shady 50+, which consists of a lightweight formula that dry’s down to a matte finish, so you won’t need those blotting pads hun. Not only does the SPF protect you from the sun but it also doubles as a moisturiser, we don’t want you feeling and looking like the 100-year-old lady from the titanic.
By choosing an oil free and lightweight formula you can finally protect your skin properly against sun damage, whilst not having to suffer all the downsides like greasing up and breaking out. It’s a win, win bestie, and you can check it out here.
How to apply correctly
If you have been traumatised as a child by having 1 litre of sunscreen sloppily applied by your mum or dad, continue reading to find how to properly apply your sunscreen lol…..
When applying an SPF such as ours, Skin Shady 50+ should be applied as the last step of your AM routine (after any of your cleansers, serums and moisturisers). Make sure you use the ‘two finger rule’ or measure out ¼ of a teaspoon to get the correct coverage from this product. Oh, and don’t forget your ears and neck!
How long does sunscreen last?
The sun protection factor (SPF) of a sunscreen is only effective for two hours after application. Now you may be thinking, in hindsight that isn’t that long (the same can be said for my last relationship) but if this means protecting your skin from sun damage sign me up!
Even on overcast or wet summer days, our experts recommend bringing Skin Shady 50+ with you so you can re-apply it if you need (it is also probably much lighter than the emotional baggage you carry from your last relationship) so it’s great to have in your bag on standby!
Shop Skin Shady (as seen on Love Island Australia) here
