How To Be A Sunscreen Kween!

Everyone’s always talking about it but you’re not quite sure what it really is nor what it does. Sunscreen and the whole idea behind SPF are lost on most Lankan folk. Whilst the umbrellas and DIY turmeric masks are great, Lakshika Pinto gets real about the importance of sun protection.

- Lakshika Pinto

Sun Protection Factor, better known as SPF, is basically a method of measuring how well a sunscreen will be able to protect skin from ultraviolet rays. In order to figure out the exact amount of protection your product is giving you, all you’ve got to do is multiply the SPF number on the label by 10 and you’ll know how many hours of protection you’re really getting. For example, SPF 30 would mean 300 minutes of protection!

ULTRAVIOLET RAYS: UVA VS. UVB

UVA rays penetrate deep into your skin and not only cause damage, but they also can suppress your immune system if exposed to over a long period of time.

UVB rays, on the other hand, burn the topmost layers of your skin and remain the number one cause of skin cancer. “While SPF will protect you against UVB rays, broad-spectrum protection is what will shield you from those UVA rays.”