Photographed by Borgy Angeles for the May 2024 Issue of Vogue Philippines.
Diverse sun protection options let you soak up the summer sun.
In our sun drenched country, healthy, protected skin begins with one non-negotiable step: sunscreen. The skincare mantra is clear: apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 daily and reapply every two hours. But what exactly do these guidelines mean?
Whether you’re embracing the scorching sun or staying cool indoors, understanding SPF is paramount. SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, is your shield against cancer-causing UV radiation, premature fine lines, wrinkles, and skin discoloration. It quantifies how much longer you can stay in the sun without damage as opposed to if you had no defense against the sun at all. For example, SPF30 extends your protected time by 30, while SPF15 by 15.
While it may seem logical that a higher SPF number is always better, it’s crucial to consider the type of UV protection a sunscreen offers. Experts commonly recommend broad spectrum sunscreen, which shields the skin against both UVA and UVB rays. Simply put, UVA rays age your skin, while UVB rays burn it. To gauge UVA protection, watch out for plus signs next to the SPF number. The more plus signs, the stronger the defense.
Finding the time to reapply can be tricky for many. The solution? Sunscreen layering.
Stacking SPF-based products ensures continuous protection, ideal for those with busy schedules or intricate makeup routines. Thankfully, a plethora of products now incorporates SPF, providing holistic skin safeguarding. Enhance your routine with Clé de Peau Beauté’s UV Protective Lip Treatment paired with La Mer’s Radiant Skin Tint for complete facial coverage.
Maintaining radiant skin, no matter the weather, is vital, but sun protection involves more than just personal care. Studies reveal that certain sunscreen ingredients, like oxybenzone, octinoxate, and avobenzone, can harm marine life. To mitigate the chance of environmental harm, opt instead for water-resistant formulas and apply sunscreen 20 minutes before swimming during excursions this summer.
