What is SPF and why should it be part of your daily skincare routine?

What does SPF mean?
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor – that is, sun protection factor or protection against sunlight. This figure indicates how long the skin is protected from UVB radiation, which causes sunburn and increases the risk of skin cancer.
Let's explain it if you have:
SPF15 - blocks about 93% of UVB rays
SPF30 - blocks about 97%
SPF50 - blocks about 98%
A higher SPF does not mean double protection, but a slightly higher proportion of blocked rays and a longer duration of effect – if applied correctly and in sufficient quantities.

How does SPF affect your skin?
A sunscreen with SPF creates a protective barrier on the skin that:
reflects or absorbs UV radiation (depending on the type of filter),
prevents damage to cell DNA, which leads to aging, pigmentation and cancer,
prevents the formation of free radicals, which cause oxidative stress.
Note: SPF protects against UVB rays, but not all products also protect against UVA rays, which penetrate deeper into the skin and cause premature aging. Therefore, look for the label “broad-spectrum protection” or “UVA/UVB”.

What SPF should you choose?
For every day:
For everyday use in the city: SPF30
If you spend a lot of time outdoors or are prone to age spots: always at least SPF50 https://www.temperancesk.com/ample-n-solar-shot-peach-tone-up-suncream-spf50-pa/
For vacation:
By the sea or in the mountains: always SPF50+, ideally waterproof products. https://www.temperancesk.com/cure-water-splash-cooling-sun-stick/
According to skin type:
For oily or acne-prone skin: light gels or fluids with a non-comedogenic formula.
For delicate and sensitive skin: mineral filters (e.g. zinc oxide). https://www.temperancesk.com/ample-n-solar-shot-zinc-mild-suncream-spf50-pa/

What happens to skin without SPF?
Without daily protection, the skin is exposed to invisible but constant damage:
• age spots and uneven skin tone begin to form
• skin ages prematurely – wrinkles, loss of elasticity, dull skin
• the risk of skin cancer increases
• problems such as rosacea, acne or melasma may worsen
Many active ingredients in cosmetics (e.g. retinoids, AHA acids) increase sensitivity to UV radiation. Without SPF, their effect can even be counterproductive.

How to use SPF correctly?
Use every morning – even on cloudy days, even in winter.
Apply a generous amount – about 1/2 teaspoon – to your face.
Don’t forget your neck, ears and lips.
Reapply every 2–3 hours, especially if you sweat or swim.

Common SPF Myths
❌ “I don’t need SPF if I’m in the office all day.”
➡️ Misconception. UVA rays penetrate glass – including windows.
❌ “Darker skin types don’t need protection.”
➡️ Darker skin is also damaged by UV radiation – although it doesn’t burn as quickly, it still ages and is at risk of skin cancer.
❌ “SPF in makeup is enough for me.”
➡️ Most decorative cosmetics with SPF do not provide sufficient protection due to the small applied layer. SPF cream should be a separate step.

Conclusion: SPF is the best anti-aging product
If you had to choose one product that will help your skin look and feel its best, it would be SPF. Using it daily can prevent not only aesthetic imperfections but also serious skin conditions.
Incorporate SPF into your routine today – and your skin will pay you back in a few years.