Sunscreen is a daily must-have for protecting your skin against the harmful effects of the sun, but in tropical regions like the Philippines and Southeast Asia, it becomes even more critical. In this blog, we’ll explore what SPF is, the differences between UVA and UVB rays, why sunscreen is important (especially in this part of the world), and answer some common sunscreen-related questions.
What is SPF or Sunscreen?
SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, measures how well a sunscreen can protect your skin from UVB rays, which cause sunburn and contribute to skin cancer. An SPF 30, for instance, means that it would take you 30 times longer to burn than if you weren’t wearing any protection at all. However, SPF only accounts for protection against UVB rays, so it’s important to choose a product that also shields you from UVA rays by offering broad-spectrum protection.
In fact, sunscreen can be classified into two types:
- Chemical Sunscreens, which absorb UV rays and release them as heat.
- Physical (or mineral) Sunscreens, which block and deflect UV rays using ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
Choosing the right sunscreen depends on your skin type and environmental conditions, but one thing is clear: the right choice should protect against both UVA and UVB rays.
What Does UVA/UVB Mean?
Understanding the difference between UVA and UVB rays is essential to grasp why sun protection is crucial. UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and are the primary cause of skin aging, wrinkles, and dark spots. They are present throughout the year, can penetrate glass windows, and affect your skin even on cloudy days. Meanwhile, UVB rays are responsible for sunburn and play a larger role in causing skin cancer. UVB rays are more intense on sunny days, particularly between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and are less likely to penetrate through glass.
This is the reason why, when looking for sunscreens, check if it has the label “broad-spectrum”. Broad-spectrum SPFs protect against both UVA and UVB rays, giving your skin all-around protection.
The Importance of Using Sunscreen
In tropical regions like the Philippines and Southeast Asia, where the sun is intense year-round, wearing SPF is non-negotiable. Here’s why:
1. Year-Round High UV Index
The UV index in the Philippines and Southeast Asia is high for most of the year, particularly during the dry season when temperatures soar and cloud cover is minimal. A high UV index means that the skin is more susceptible to damage from UV rays, increasing the risk of skin cancer, sunburn, and photoaging. In fact, studies show that regions with higher UV exposure have higher rates of UV-related skin diseases. Wearing sunscreen daily is a must to protect against these risks.
2. Tropical Climate and Humidity
The combination of intense sun and high humidity in Southeast Asia can make it challenging to keep skin protected. Humid weather can cause sweat, which often leads people to feel that sunscreen is sticky or uncomfortable. Choosing a water-resistant sunscreen or one formulated for high humidity is important to ensure that it stays effective throughout the day.
3. Protection Against Dark Spots and Hyperpigmentation
People living in tropical climates, particularly those with melanin-rich skin, are more prone to hyperpigmentation and dark spots when exposed to the sun without protection. Sunscreen helps prevent these skin conditions from becoming worse, keeping the skin tone even and healthy.
4. Reduces Premature Aging
UVA rays are responsible for what dermatologists refer to as photoaging, which leads to wrinkles, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation (dark spots). Wearing sunscreen daily helps slow down these visible signs of aging by blocking these harmful rays.
5. Essential for Everyone
Whether you have fair, medium, or dark skin, sunscreen is crucial. While people with darker skin tones may not burn as easily as those with fair skin, they are still at risk of UV-induced damage, hyperpigmentation, and even skin cancer.
Common Questions About Sunscreen
With so many sunscreen options on the market and misinformation floating around, it’s no surprise that people have lots of questions. Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about sunscreen.
1. How often should I reapply sunscreen?
Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours when outdoors, and immediately after swimming, sweating, or towel-drying. Even if you’re using a water-resistant formula, reapplication is key to staying protected throughout the day.
2. Do I need sunscreen if it’s cloudy or raining?
Yes! Up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate through clouds, so even on overcast days, you’re still at risk for sun damage. This is why dermatologists recommend wearing sunscreen every day, regardless of the weather.
3. How much sunscreen should I apply?
Most people don’t use enough sunscreen. For proper coverage, you need about one ounce (about the size of a shot glass) to cover your entire body. For your face and neck, a nickel-sized amount is typically sufficient. Remember to apply to all exposed areas, including your ears, hands, and the tops of your feet.
4. Can I use sunscreen if I have sensitive skin?
Absolutely! Many sunscreens are formulated specifically for sensitive skin, often featuring zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as active ingredients, which are less likely to cause irritation. Look for products labeled fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, or non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores).
5. What SPF should I use?
For everyday wear, dermatologists recommend using a sunscreen with at least SPF 30, which blocks about 97% of UVB rays. Higher SPFs offer slightly more protection, but no sunscreen can block 100% of UV rays. SPF 50 blocks about 98% of UVB rays, while SPF 100 blocks about 99%. What matters most is that you're using enough product and reapplying as needed.
6. What does broad spectrum mean?
“Broad spectrum" refers to a sunscreen's ability to protect the skin from both UVA and UVB rays, with UVA causing premature aging and UVB causing sunburn, ensuring comprehensive defense against sun damage.
7. Can I get enough Vitamin D if I wear sunscreen every day?
Yes, you can still get sufficient Vitamin D while wearing sunscreen. The body can produce Vitamin D with minimal sun exposure—about 10 to 15 minutes a few times a week is usually enough for most people. Alternatively, you can boost your Vitamin D intake through diet or supplements.
8. Is makeup with SPF enough protection?
While makeup with SPF provides some level of sun protection, it’s usually not enough by itself. Most people don’t apply makeup thickly enough to get the full SPF benefit listed on the label. It’s best to apply a dedicated sunscreen under your makeup for full coverage.
Wearing sunscreen daily is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to protect your skin from harmful UV radiation, reduce the risk of skin cancer, and slow down the signs of aging. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, apply it generously, and don’t forget to reapply regularly.
Meet Your Ultimate SPF
Pure Culture is proud to present our first-ever SPF: Dream Shield Universal Day Cream. This all-natural sunscreen moisturizer provides broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection without leaving a white cast, using 100% naturally derived ingredients. It enhances skin brightness with Kakadu Plum, helps reduce fine lines with amber powder and CoQ10, and soothes irritation with Marshmallow Root and Wheat Germ extracts, while supporting the skin’s natural barrier. The lightweight, non-greasy formula keeps skin soft and smooth, making it perfect for daily use, whether worn under makeup or as a natural highlighter.
For help with your skincare routine, drop by our pop-up store at SM North Edsa, 2F, across from Tokyo Tokyo, where our beauty advisor will be happy to assist you. You can also reach out to us via Facebook or Instagram.