UV filter creams in the
Sportano sports shop offerProtection against ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a key element of a healthy lifestyle. UV rays can not only cause sunburn and premature skin ageing, but also significantly increase the risk of developing skin cancer. UV sunscreens are essential because they create a protective barrier on the skin that absorbs or reflects harmful rays, allowing you to enjoy the sun without negative health consequences. Regular use of sunscreen is recommended not only during days spent at the beach or by the pool, but also every day as part of your daily skincare routine.Broad spectrum protection: UVA and UVB in the formulation of creamsTo understand why UV sunscreens should offer protection against UVA and UVB rays, it is worth first explaining the differences between these two types of radiation. UVA rays, which penetrate deep into the skin, are a major factor in accelerating skin ageing and can contribute to wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. They also have the ability to penetrate clouds and glass, meaning that our skin is exposed to them almost all the time, even on cloudy days or indoors. UVB rays, on the other hand, are more superficial, but are responsible for skin redness, sunburn and, ultimately, can increase the risk of skin cancer.
Broad-spectrum creams are formulated to protect the skin from both of these risks. When looking for an effective sunscreen, it is important to look for those that indicate UVA and UVB protection on the label or have a 'broad spectrum' designation. Such creams usually contain a combination of chemical and physical ingredients that together form a protective barrier on the skin, absorbing, scattering or reflecting harmful rays.Choosing the right SPF: how to interpret the values?SPF, or sun protection factor, is one of the most important indicators when choosing a UV sunscreen. This number indicates how long the product allows the skin to stay in the sun without burning compared to the time the skin is exposed to the sun without protection. For example, if, without using sunscreen, the skin starts to turn red after 10 minutes, using a cream with SPF 30 theoretically extends this time to 300 minutes.
However, in practice, a high SPF factor does not mean that you can stay in the sun without having to reapply cream throughout the day. Sun exposure, sweating, swimming in water and other factors can reduce the effectiveness of the sunscreen, so it is recommended to reapply every two hours and after every time you get out of the water or sweat heavily.
When choosing an SPF, it is also important to consider skin type, sunburn history, geographical location and expected time spent in the sun. Fair-skinned people who burn quickly should choose higher SPF values, while those with darker skin may need a lower SPF, although it is still important to ensure adequate protection.Sunscreen formulations: lotions, sprays and creams
faceThe variety of UV sunscreen formulas on the market allows each person to choose the perfect product for their individual needs and preferences. Sunscreen lotions are often chosen for their creamy, rich texture, which provides intense protection and is particularly recommended for dry skin areas. Their thicker formula can be more protective, especially on sun-exposed areas such as the nose, ears and shoulders. However, lotions can leave a visible film on the skin, which some may find less aesthetically pleasing, especially when applied all over the body.
Sunscreen sprays have gained popularity due to their ease of application and ability to evenly cover the skin, including hard-to-reach areas. They are ideal for active people who need a quick and convenient solution that allows reapplication throughout the day. However, be sure to apply the spray in a well-ventilated area and avoid inhaling the product, and make sure the skin is completely covered, which can sometimes be difficult to judge.
Face creams with UV filters are specially formulated to provide protection without causing irritation to sensitive facial skin. They are often lighter than traditional lotions, do not clog pores (they are 'non-comedogenic') and are ideal for daily use, even under make-up. Many face creams contain additional ingredients such as vitamin E or hyaluronic acid to moisturise and care for the skin.Innovations in sun protection: new ingredients
and technologiesThe sunscreen industry is constantly evolving, introducing new ingredients and technologies that provide more effective protection against harmful UV rays. Innovations include the development of mineral creams, which work by physically reflecting the sun's rays away from the skin using ingredients such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These are often recommended for people with very sensitive skin or for young children, as they work immediately after application without being absorbed deeply into the skin.
Modern formulations may also contain antioxidants, such as green tea or resveratrol, which provide additional protection at a cellular level, neutralising free radicals and reducing skin damage from sun exposure. In addition, technologies are being developed that allow sunscreens to better bind to the skin, resulting in a more water-resistant and sweat-resistant product for longer and more reliable protection.
Textile innovations are also being introduced, such as clothing with built-in UV filters, and accessories such as special stickers or armbands that monitor UV exposure, helping users to better manage their time spent in the sun. All these advances are aimed not only at making products more effective, but also at improving their usability and comfort.
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