Sunblock Facts
Sunblock offers protection from the sun, but it isn't the same as sunscreen, which is a common mistake made by consumers. Sunscreen acts as a filter and lets certain lights through, while sunblock literally blocks out the sun. Does this Spark an idea?
-
Ingredients
-
The main materials in sunblock are metallic ingredients that reflect sunlight off the skin and bounces it back into the atmosphere, which prevents the skin from absorbing any of the sunlight.
Types
-
There are many different types of sunblock on the market that offer different levels of protection, known as the sun protection factor or SPF. Levels range from an SPF 5 up to an SPF 80.
-
Expert Insight
-
Experts recommend that consumers look for a sunblock with an SPF factor of at least 15. Anything below that provides only a small amount of protection and isn't enough to protect against all rays.
SPF
-
SPF refers to the amount of time it takes for your skin to turn red in the sun. The higher the SPF, the more time you can be in the sun before your skin turns red.
Application
-
Sunblock should be reapplied after two hours and sooner if you are actively sweating, swimming or otherwise getting your skin wet, which can wash off the sunblock.
-
