The Acronyms
Ultraviolet, a higher-energy version of visible light, which can be divided into A and B categories.
Think of the A as standing for Ageing. These are the rays that penetrate the skin’s deepest layers, breaking down cell structure and leading to lines, pigmentation and melanoma.
Think of the B as standing for Burning. UVB rays affect the surface layers of the skin, causing both sunburn and cancer.
Sun Protection Factor, a measure of how long you’ll be protected for. For example, SPF 15 will allow you to be in the sun 15 times longer than it would normally take for you to burn without protection.
The Physical Vs Chemical Debate
Physical sunscreens contain active mineral ingredients which create a protective layer on top of the skin to deflect damaging UV rays. They're sometimes referred to as mineral sunscreens, and are considered better for more sensitive skin types since they're less likely to clog pores.
Chemical sunscreens contain ingredients which absorb UV rays and cause a chemical reaction which ultimately sees the UV rays released from the skin before they can do their damage. They can be thinner than physical sunscreens, since they don't need to sit on top of the skin, so can be easier to apply and more comfortable to wear.
Read more: How To Treat Sunburn
The Numbers
The very lowest SPF protection level recommended by the NHS or Cancer Research UK, whatever your skin type. The British Association of Dermatologists recommends 30. Don't even think about a 2 or a 4.
The minimum "star rating" recommended for UVA protection during prolonged sun exposure. Ratings range from one star to five, though some may just say "medium" or "high". It's confusing, but once you learn what to look for you'll soon get the hang of it. Look for broad-spectrum protection, which covers both UVA and UVB.
Cancer Research UK measures the amount of suncream we should be applying in spoons - around two teaspoonfuls of sunscreen if you're just covering your head, arms and neck, or around two tablespoonfuls if you're covering your entire body.
The number of minutes before heading out into the sun that you should apply your sunscreen.
The shelf life in years of most sun creams, though you should check each bottle to be sure. Storing them in hot places can ruin their protective chemicals, so you should also bear this in mind when reusing last year's creams. Also if you're applying it as liberally as you should be, you'll probably use it all up.
The hours between which you should step into the shade - right in the middle of the day when you're at the most risk of sun damage. Call it another excuse for a long lunch.
The Dos And Don’ts Of Tanning
Do travel with aloe vera to soothe sunburn. Do use products containing hyaluronic acid, soy extract and panthenol to boost hydration and soothe inflammation. Do wear cotton clothing to allow skin to breathe. Do wait at least three weeks after any skin treatment (such as lasers and peels) before exposing your skin to the sun.
Don’t use retinoids or exfoliants, like glycolic and salicylic acids, which can make skin more sun-sensitive. Don’t wear perfumes and oils in the sun, as these may cause inflammation when exposed to UV. Don’t use petroleum-based products; they trap heat in the skin and exacerbate the sunburn.
Related reading: Explore the Vogue guide to the best sun protection for your face.
Read more: 10 Best Fake Tan Products
