Understanding SPF

SPF stands for "Sun Protection Factor" and it corresponds to the amount of protection that we get from a specific product of sunscreen or sun block. In other words, this number corresponds to the percentage of the sun's rays that will be absorbed or blocked by that product.

SPF ranges from 2-60 and this corresponds to how much of the sun's rays it absorbs or blocks. However, it is important to recognize that the SPF is not on a fixed scale and is not relative which is to say that SPF 4 is not twice as strong as SPF 2. This makes it somewhat complicated to know precisely how much sun screen to use, but as such it is recommended whenever you are out for extended periods of times to use the highest possible to avoid skin damage. Another recommendation is to keep the skin hydrated, continuously. The burns usually come when the skin begins to dry and a sunscreen/block or moisturizer is not readministered, and, people are usually out in the sun way too long without a break from the harmful rays.

As a rough guide, it is important to always use up to SPF 30 if you are going to be out in the sun for 20 minutes or longer. Anything higher has been found to be somewhat helpful but also making the skin more sensitive to the sun's rays due to the chemicals and synthetics used in the formulas. Higher SPF values are only for marketing purposes and consumer comfort (more is better, right?). Numerous studies and research have shown that an SPF of 100+ is not better than an SPF 30. They found the skin to be more irritated by the formula and thus creating a very sensitive skin surface rather than a protected one, thus, higher chances of sun burn and skin irritability. It also can plug pores and not allow the skin to breathe which then irritates the skin even more, especially during hot humid weather. More chemicals, more toxicity and irritability. One such chemical used is oxybenzone. The problem with most commercial products is that individual chemicals often work by blocking either UVA or UVB rays but not both types. This means that chemical sunscreen manufacturers need to combine several different formulas/solutions into one product to prevent burns from happening. The more chemicals that are added, the higher the chances are for negative reactions, allergies and irritation. In sensitive skin, sunscreens won't always prevent cancer and might cause reactions like hives, swelling, redness, sensitivity, and acne. So what is protecting the skin?

In terms of percentages, the following guide may be helpful:

SPF 2: 50% of the sun's rays blocked.

SPF 15: 94% of the sun's rays blocked.

SPF 30: 97% of the sun's rays blocked.

Of course there are other factors to consider, and that also come into play when deciding what SPF product to use.

• How much moisturizing ingredients do these formulas contain? Many plants have high SPF values as well as antioxidants which help protect the skin. The more the antioxidants, the better! These same plants are a true testament to surviving environmental stresses such as heat, drought, pest invasions, and other environmental changes. Are there any in the formula you are using? In our opinion, it should be loaded!

• Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Two minerals used for their sun blocking abilities and protecting the skin. Using the non-nano version in the formula keeps the minerals from absorbing into the skin and allows them to reflect the sun's rays away from your skin (hence their white color). We use just enough zinc and titanium to help reflect the sun's rays but allow some penetration for Vitamin D production, which also protects your skin.

• The other question we have, can the formula be used for daily use? Is it thin enough to use under make up? Many use our SPF after moisturizing the skin for additional protection. Too often when we think of zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide formulas, it's a thick white pasty smear that people put under their eyes, on cheeks or on the forehead. Not ours. We use these minerals sparingly and just the right amount to protect your skin. You really don't need much more. The public has been fooled into thinking that thicker and more is better. Not so. Again, studies and research in the U.S., Canada, Europe and Australia have shown that the opposite is true, but the catch is, use it more often.

• If you keep the skin hydrated and moisturized, the chances of burning is quite minimal. What you will get for your efforts is a beautiful, glowing, tanned skin surface, but fully moisturized below. And, you will be the NV of all your family and friends!