While the sun gives us an attractive tan, it can also be harmful to our skin. Frequent exposure to UV rays can lead to photoaging, the appearance of premature wrinkles and skin spots, and significantly increase the risk of skin cancer. Therefore, it is crucial to apply sun protection regularly, using products with a sun protection factor (SPF). In this article, we will explain how to apply sunscreen before or after moisturizer properly, how to choose the right level of protection, and when to use these cosmetic products.
How to apply sunscreen to your face correctly?
One of the most frequently asked questions skin care experts receive is: what is more important, sunscreen or moisturizer? To answer this question, it is crucial to understand how sunscreens with a sun protection factor (SPF) work.
Hydropeptide products employ organic physical filters such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These ingredients act as a barrier that reflects UVB and UVA rays from the skin’s surface. In addition, our products contain Venusin, a thermoactive component that protects the skin against photoaging. Venusin’s properties are fully activated by direct sun exposure and are based on multifunctional enzymes with a stable formula. Venusin protects against the infrared spectrum, prevents collagen degradation, and helps maintain the skin’s youthfulness.
What is the proper order for skin care with SPF products?
- Cleansing: The first step is always to cleanse the skin to remove impurities, residue, and excess oil from the skin’s surface.
- Hydration: Every skin type requires adequate hydration, which is crucial to maintaining a youthful and healthy appearance.
- Sun Protection: After completing your facial care routine and ensuring all previous products have been absorbed, it’s time to apply your sunscreen.
After applying the SPF product, you can wear makeup if you wish. However, our experts have created versatile products that eliminate the need to apply additional foundation. One example is Solar Defence Tinted, an innovative sunscreen with SPF 30 that also acts as a tone corrector. It quickly adapts to your natural skin tone, evening it out and providing a luminous finish. This product perfectly aligns with the current trend of looking natural: it conceals skin imperfections without making it look like you’re wearing makeup. In addition, it effectively protects against sun damage while moisturizing, nourishing, soothing, and strengthening the skin barrier.
Things to consider when using SPF products and how to choose the right level of protection
What time should I apply sunscreen? There is no specific time of day to use sunscreen; it should be applied whenever you are exposed to the sun. Even as the sun approaches sunset, it is advisable to continue using sun protection to be safe.
How much cream is needed for effective protection? Although it varies from person to person, a general rule is to apply the amount of cream that fits between your index and middle fingers, spreading it along the entire length of the finger. This amount is usually enough to adequately cover the entire face.
After applying the product, gently massage it into the skin, following the natural lines of the face. Make sure to cover all areas to avoid leaving any unprotected spots. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to your ears and neck, as these areas tend to burn easily with exposure to UV rays, and the skin on your neck is especially susceptible to premature aging.
SPF products should be used on all body areas exposed to the sun. Our range includes specific options for the body and hands:
- Solar Defence Body is a water-resistant body spray with SPF 30 containing Venusin, an infrared protector, and botanical extracts. It offers sun protection, provides deep hydration, soothes the skin, and fights the effects of free radicals.
- Solar Defence Hand Guard is a lightweight hand cream with SPF 15, enriched with peptides, niacinamide, and chamomile extract. This formula protects against UV rays, helps reduce pigmentation, moisturizes the skin, diminishes the appearance of wrinkles, soothes inflammation, and leaves hands soft and velvety.
How to apply sunscreen spray?
Hold the bottle upright at a distance of approximately 10 cm from the area you wish to protect. Apply an appropriate amount of product and gently massage it into the skin. Alternatively, spray the product directly onto the palm of your hand and then spread it evenly over the skin. In both cases, make sure to cover the area thoroughly. If the application is too light, the protector’s effectiveness will be compromised.
As for the levels of protection, the most common are:
- SPF 15: Provides essential UV protection, ideal for cloudy weather, the cold season, and short exposure to the sun.
- SPF 30: Provides high-quality UV protection, perfect for daily use.
- SPF 50: Provides maximum protection against UV rays and is recommended for prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
How long does sunscreen last?
Unlike decorative cosmetics, typically applied once daily, sunscreens with SPF require regular reapplication. The effective duration of sun protection varies depending on the product and the concentration of UV filters it contains. However, most are formulated to provide active protection for approximately two hours. After this period, it is essential to reapply the product to maintain adequate protection.
If you swim in a pool or open water, use a towel, or sweat a lot, you may need to reapply sunscreen more frequently. Even products labeled as water-resistant require reapplication after swimming, as their strength only protects you while you’re in the water.
How often should I apply sunscreen?
You should apply sunscreen every time you are outdoors, regardless of the season. UV rays can penetrate clouds and affect your skin, even on cloudy days or during winter.
The Hydropeptide product line offers a wide variety of sunscreens designed for different skin types and levels of protection. The catalog provides detailed information about each product, and if you have any questions or concerns, you can consult with a professional aesthetician online.
