People are only just realising the secret code on suncream and it could be the answer to staying burn free in the sun
WHETHER you’re basking in the sunshine on holiday or in your back garden, one thing’s the same – the need for sun cream.
But despite applying it time and time again every summer, it turns out few people are aware of what the symbols on the bottle actually mean.
While many of us focus on the SPF (Sun Protection Factor), a skincare whizz revealed the importance of checking the level of UVA protection, too – and it’s all to do with the star rating on the back of the bottle.
Burak Ersoy, Founder of Badge Clinic, explains how the star rating ranges from one to five, with the larger number signifying the highest level of UVA protection.
“The star rating system acts as an essential complement to SPF, as it focuses specifically on UVA protection,” he says, speaking to OK magazine.
“UVA rays penetrate deeply into the skin and are responsible for long-term damage, such as premature ageing and skin cancer.”
He goes onto explain that a deeper understanding of the star rating system will essentially help people to choose sun creams that provide enough UVA protection specific to their individual needs.
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“By prioritising both SPF and the star rating, individuals can ensure comprehensive protection against both UVB and UVA rays, shielding their skin from the detrimental effects of sun exposure,” he adds.
And with so many options of sun cream available on the market, how do you know which is the best?
Well, according to Burak, there are some key ingredients to look out for.
Sharing his top tips and expertise, he explains that ingredients such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide act as “physical blockers” and will help to form a protective barrier on the skin’s surface, helping to “reflect and scatter” UV rays.
The expert also notes that chemical filters are essential for helping to absorb UV radiation and turn it into heat.
These ingredients, which include the likes of avobenzone, octinoxate, or oxybenzone, interact with the skin to help with sun protection.
Meanwhile, antioxidants, such as vitamin E, green tea extract, or niacinamide, neutralise harmful free radicals created by UV exposure, which help to reduce skin damage.