What does SPF mean and what are the different factors?

SPF means Sun Protection Factor. It is a measure of the effectiveness of sunscreen. SPF is measured as the ratio of the amount of UV radiation required to burn the protected skin (with sunscreen) to that required to burn the same unprotected skin (without sunscreen). SPF tells how long you can stay in the sun without burning from UVB. For example, if your skin would normally burn after 10 minutes in the sun, applying an SPF 15 sunscreen would allow you to stay in the sun without burning for approximately 150 minutes (a factor of 15 times longer). The majority of dermatologist recommend nowadays to use a sunscreen with SPF 30 which offers high protection against UV light.

How many times per day do you need to top up your SPF?

If exposed to the sun, you should reapply sunscreen at least every two hours and each time after towel drying, swimming or sweating.

Just how important is sunscreen?

The use of a sunscreen is very important in the prevention of development of skin cancer and premature skin aging.

Should you use a separate sun cream to your face than your body?

Usually cosmetic companies are developing two separate sunscreens: one for the face and one for the body that have different textures and ingredients. However, it is important to know that what we need for both face and body is a broad-spectrum sunscreen which offers protection against both, UVA and UVB light.

Is mineral or chemical sunscreen better for the skin?

It is not the question of better or more efficacious. Both sunscreens are good but their mechanism of action is different. Chemical sunscreens act by absorbing the UV light while mineral (physical) sunscreens act by reflecting the UV light.

What do the sun acronyms mean?

<ul> <li>UVA- Ultraviolet A light- light in the range of 315-400 nm of the entire UV spectrum</li> <li>UVB- Ultraviolet B light- light in the range of 280-315 nm of the entire UV spectrum</li> </ul>

What makes Zelens different from other brands when it comes to suncare?

Zelens is unique when it comes to suncare because we use a novel micro-encapsulation technology to provide broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. Encapsulation prevents direct skin contact with sunscreens and no dermal uptake of sunscreens. Also Zelens suncare formulas contain a proprietary blend of antioxidants to fight hazardous free radicals and active ingredients that reinforce natural barrier function.

What is the best skincare routine to use after wearing sun cream all day?

The best recommendation is to use a cream that can help to restore the barrier function of the skin which can be seriously impaired by the exposure to the sun. Zelens developed <a href="https://www.lookfantastic.com/zelens-z-recovery-intensive-repair-balm-50ml/11345048.html" target="_blank">Z Recovery- Intensive Repair Balm</a> which is a concentrated rescue balm formulated to support natural skin repair and recovery after daily environmental assaults. Fortified with powerful collagen-boosting ingredients, <a href="https://www.lookfantastic.com/zelens-z-recovery-intensive-repair-balm-50ml/11345048.html" target="_blank">Z Recovery</a> helps to restore the hydrolipidic layer and strengthen the skin's natural protective barrier. This intense soothing formula reduces perception of unpleasant sensations and enhances well-being of the skin.

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ADVICE

Talking Sunscreen with Dr. Marko Lens, Founder of Zelens Skincare

When it comes to talking about sunscreen, there's no one more qualified to give advice than Dr. Marko Lens, founder of Zelens Skincare.

As a qualified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Marko Lens is a leading authority in the world of skin ageing and skin cancers, meaning he's serious when it comes to protecting skin with sunscreen. As a result, his skincare brand Zelens has been created with high-quality formulas to keep your skin as healthy as it can be against environmental aggressors.

Why Sunscreen is Important

It's an age-old piece of advice, which if we're being honest, most of us don't always adhere to, but wearing sunscreen is absolutely imperative to keeping your skin youthful and protected. UV damage is one of the leading causes of accelerated skin ageing and cancer, meaning that it's incredibly important we do what we can to prevent it from happening.

Sunscreen works by either blocking or reflecting the UV light from the sun, depending on whether it's mineral or chemical based. Neither one is better than the other, as they both work to shield against the damaging rays, so no matter which you choose, they will keep your skin protected and healthy.

Sunscreen helps to prevent the possibility of skin cancer.
It aids in reducing the appearance of dark spots and discolouration that can appear as a result of UV rays.
It helps to reduce redness and blotchiness from the sun and heat.
It keeps the skin looking youthful by slowing down the ageing process.
It keeps your complexion glowing and healthy!

We caught up with Dr. Marko Lens to ask him a few questions about sunscreen and learn more about how we can keep our skin protected in the sun.

The Zelens Sunscreen Products

Zelens Body Defence Sunscreen SPF 30 125ml

RRP: ~~£55.00~~Current price: £41.25

A Q&A with Dr. Marko Lens

Team LF Writer and expert

Our team of beauty experts cover everything from makeup to skincare, picking out the most effective products from the best brands and latest trends. Stay up to date on everything beauty with the LOOKFANTASTIC blog, and find all your essentials in one place.