Sun protection

Whether you are going on holiday or planning a longer stay in the countryside or a walk through the city, you will need protection from the sun whether you want to or not. Even during cloudy weather, the sun's rays are still present and potentially dangerous. This means that you are simply exposed to harmful UVA and UVB rays throughout the day and, with insufficient protection, increase your risk of skin cancer or premature aging, including wrinkles or dark spots. To avoid this, simply reach for the sunscreen before heading out into the streets.

There is a lot of terminology when it comes to sunscreen, and brands are literally flooding us with amazing claims that their sunscreen products are extremely water-resistant and that you only need to use them once a day. That's why we've created this guide to the world of tanning products to help you understand everything you need to know. More importantly, it will show you what to look out for when buying them. We also offer several tanning and protective products in Temperance, from those that are also suitable for children to those that are specially designed for our face or to soothe already burned skin.
UV radiation is what causes the damage and what we need to protect ourselves from. Ultraviolet B (UVB) rays are responsible for reddening of the skin and sunburn. They are also the main culprit of skin cancer or premature aging, but less likely than UVA rays. UVB rays vary depending on place, time and season.
Ultraviolet A (UVA) rays penetrate deeper into your skin and are responsible for tanning the skin. They also cause dryness, premature aging and wrinkles. UVA rays are generally relatively consistent throughout the year and at any time of the day.
When buying sunscreen, therefore, remember that we want to protect ourselves from both types of UV radiation.

A little tip: Car windows do not protect against harmful sunlight, so it would be good to have sunglasses and a protective cream on hand. While windshields block the vast majority of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, door windows no longer offer as much protection. In this case, in addition to the products, only the foils will help you.

What does SPF mean?
The sun protection factor (SPF) measures the amount of protection. Rated on a scale of 2 to 50+ (the higher the number, the longer the protection), it will tell you how much longer your skin will be protected from UV radiation.

What is my phototype?
Phototype I – Noticeably fair skin, red hair, lots of freckles, blue eyes. The so-called Celtic type. When staying in the sun, they are almost always burned, they only get red and the skin does not turn brown. Without protection, they will burn in 10 minutes. In Slovakia, they should use SPF 30, 50+ by the sea.
Phototype II – Light skin, less freckles, blond hair, blue, green or grey eyes. Light European type. They tan red and often burn. Without protection, they will burn in 10 to 20 minutes. In Slovakia, they should use SPF 25, at least 40 by sea.
Phototype III – Light brown skin, brown to dark hair and brown eyes. Dark European type. They tan well, rarely burn. Without protection, they will burn in 20 to 30 minutes. In Slovakia, they should use SPF 15, at least 25 at sea.
Phototype IV – Dark skin, very dark eyes and hair. Mediterranean type. They almost never get burned. Without protection, they burn after 45 minutes. In Slovakia, they should use SPF 10, at least 20 at sea.
Phototype V – Very dark skin, dark to black hair. They practically never get burned. Nevertheless, they should use creams that have an SPF of at least 10.
Phototype VI – The darkest type. They practically never get burned. Nevertheless, they should use creams that have an SPF of at least 10.

What types of sunscreens do we know?
Once a day – these types of products claim to protect you from the sun all day with just one application. However, some tests performed on these sunscreens have shown that this is not the case, so we recommend that you follow the usual and recommended instructions for their application.
Waterproof – these products are designed for those who are in the pool or at sea. However, always check how long your sunscreens should be water resistant and when you should reapply them. Wiping with a towel can also remove cream, lotion or spray.
Insect repellent sunscreen – these combinations are appealing, but studies have shown that UV protection creams that also contain insect protection reduce the effectiveness of sun protection. Experts clearly recommend using two separate products.
Sunscreen for the face – These creams are often moisturizing, so they are usually light, non-greasy and great for delicate or sensitive skin. Make sure you apply them to the face and more often than on other parts of the body. Recommended at least every 2-3 hours.
Anti-aging sunscreens – most manufacturers are trying to get ahead in who will bring a better product that will be both hydrating and protective, and will also have anti-wrinkle effects and protection against free radicals. Free radicals arise from environmental factors, such as pollution and dust, thus contributing to premature aging. City dwellers in particular should reach for this type, because they need daily protection from the surrounding smog.

How much sunscreen should you apply and how often?
Yes, we know it's annoying to apply the cream over and over during the day but it's extremely important. Especially if you plan to sit or lie in the sun all day. A good rule to follow is the teaspoon rule. For example, one teaspoon of the product belongs to the face, one to each arm, leg and so on. In total, they should be 7. Remember that if you do not use enough sunscreen, the level of protection will be reduced.
Always use sunscreen 30 minutes before you find yourself in the sun and not just before.

Durability of sunscreen
Have you been thinking about using a sunscreen that has been stored in the back of your closet for some time? Forget it. Most sunscreen products last 12 to 18 months when stored properly. However, if they are exposed to high temperatures or direct sunlight, that is the end for them. If it's been a while since you bought it, or you can't remember when you last bought and used it, it's better to get a new one.

Physical versus chemical
Mineral alias physical sunscreens contain active mineral ingredients that form a protective layer on top of the skin in form of a "mirror" that reflects harmful UV radiation. They are sometimes referred to as mineral sunscreens, sometimes as physical. They are considered more suitable for more sensitive skin types because they are less likely to clog pores.
Ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide (Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide) protect your skin by reflecting or blocking the sun's rays. Zinc oxide provides broad protection against both UVA and UVB radiation. It starts to protect immediately after application – there is no need to wait up to 30 minutes before leaving. It is better tolerated by most skin types and lasts longer.
However, these types of products reportedly do not offer as much protection against UVA compared to chemical sunscreens and may leave white residue on the skin.
Chemical sunscreens contain ingredients that absorb UV radiation and cause a chemical reaction.
This turns the sun's rays into heat, which they then dissipate into the skin. They are easier to apply and more comfortable to wear. Chemical filters, which you will find under the names Avobenzone, Octinoxate, Octisalate, Octocrylene or Oxybenzone, work by absorbing UV radiation before it reaches the skin. These products are easier to apply and do not leave a white layer on the skin. Of course, the positives also come with the negatives. Chemical tanning products can be more irritating to some people and can cause allergic reactions.
You must wait at least 20-30 minutes after application and you also need to apply them more often.

Chemical filters:
Aminobenzoic acid
Avobenzone
Cinoxate
Dioxybenzone
Ecamsule
Ensulizole (Phenylbenzimiazole Sulfonic Acid)
Homosalate
Meradimate (Menthyl Anthranilate)
Octocrylene
Octinoxate (Octyl Methoxycinnamate)
Octisalate (Octyl Salicylate)
Oxybenzone
Padimate
Sulisobenzone
Trolamine Salicylate

Physical filters:
Titanium Dioxide
Zinc Oxide