Your Ultimate Guide on all Things SPF

The sun takes a bigger toll on our skin than we think. That's why it's important to apply sunscreen every day, especially now that the spring sun is coming out. Even when it's not sunny outside, it's vital to protect your skin as up to 80% of UV rays can pass through clouds whether we can feel it directly on our skin or not. Applying sunscreen in the morning can protect your skin from sun damage and other negative effects that come from not protecting yourself from UV rays.

It is important to choose a sunscreen with an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) that suits your skin type and needs.

We recommend applying a half to one teaspoon on the face. Don't forget to apply to the neck, décolletage, ears and lips, to protect yourself as much as possible where the sun reaches and to reapply as recommended.

What is the difference between UVA and UVB?

There are two different types of UV rays, and the difference between UVA and UVB lies mainly in their wavelengths and effects on the skin.

UVA rays have a longer wavelength and penetrate deeper into the skin. It can cause ageing and pigmentary changes as well as contribute to skin cancer.

UVB rays have a shorter wavelength and do not penetrate as deeply into the skin. They are the main cause of sunburn and can cause direct damage to DNA, also leading to skin cancer.

Both types of UV radiation are harmful, so it is important to use sunscreen products that protect against both UVA and UVB to reduce the risk of sun damage and skin cancer.

Chemical Vs Physical Filters

There are two types of protective filters used in sunscreen products: chemical filters and physical filters.

Chemical Filter: A chemical sunscreen is a type of sun protection product that contains chemicals that absorb the sun's UV rays to protect the skin from damage. The product is applied to the skin and then absorbs the UV radiation to reduce its harmful effects.

Physical Filter: Also called a mineral filter, a physical sunscreen is a type of sunscreen product that protects the skin by reflecting and scattering the sun's UV rays using minerals such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.

IDUN Minerals Sun Protection Products

IDUN Minerals has four sun protection products that we highly recommend. Read on to learn more about each one and what type of sun protection filter they contain.

The ultimate 3-in-1 products, Solstråle & Solsken

These products are used as a day cream, primer and protective SPF all in one. The fast-absorbing and moisturizing formula is enriched with vitamin E and 3% niacinamide to improve skin texture and strengthen the skin barrier. The creams have SPF to protect against the sun's harmful UVA and UVB rays. The perfect day cream to add to your skincare routine all year round for protection, but also keeps your makeup in place all day.

So what are the primary differences between these two?

Solstråle:

• Has a chemical filter providing SPF 50
  
• Has a lighter texture that moisturizes

Solsken:

• Has a chemical filter providing SPF 25
• Has a richer, creamy texture that is emollient

MOISTURIZING MINERAL SKIN TINT SPF 30:

A tinted day cream with light coverage and a luminous finish that keeps skin hydrated and provides sun protection with SPF 30. The high sun protection, SPF 30, can also be used by those with sensitive skin as it obtains it's protection factor from physical filters that protect against both UVA and UVB. The vegan formula feels weightless on the skin and evens out skin tone for a natural result and a 'no-makeup makeup' look. Formulated with skin-loving ingredients, such as antioxidants, vitamins C and E to protect the skin.

We recommend using Solstråle or Solsken under Skin Tint for the best sun protection.

OIL-INFUSED TINTED LIP ELIXIR:

The ultimate hybrid product that gives lips care, shine and protection in one. IDUN Minerals Oil-Infused Tinted Lip Elixir SPF 15 is an oil-infused lip elixir that moisturizes like a lip balm and provides shimmer and colour like a lip gloss.

The physical UV filter from zinc oxide provides protection against UVA and UVB rays. The result is soft and smooth lips with a non-sticky and shiny finish.