The truth about SPF: everything you need to know about sun protection in your skincare

• May 01 2025
• 5 min reading time

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Sun protection may not be the favorite part of your skincare routine, but it is the most important. Even if you’re not lying in the full sun but just sitting at home behind a window, your skin is exposed to UV radiation, which can cause quite a bit of damage unnoticed. Think of pigmentation spots, premature skin aging, or even skin cancer. Yet there are still many misconceptions about SPF. Do you really have to use it every day? What is the difference between UVA and UVB? And which product suits your skin type? In this blog, we give you clear answers, handy tips, and our favorite sunscreens that make your skin glow and protect it. Let’s glow safely!

 

What does SPF mean?

SPF - or Sun Protection Factor - usually sounds like something you only need in summer or on a sunny holiday. People often forget that your skin is exposed to harmful UV rays every day. Even on cloudy days or when you’re indoors, your skin needs good protection. That’s why good SPF is not a luxury but a must in your daily routine. SPF tells you how well a product protects your skin against UV radiation. These are rays that cause sunburn and damage your skin cells. 

 

The higher the SPF number, the fewer UV rays reach your skin. There are products with, for example, SPF30 and SPF50. SPF30 lets through about 3% of UV radiation, while SPF50 allows 2% of the radiation through. That one percent may seem like little difference, but for sensitive or fair skin, it can make a world of difference.

 

You can use the SPF number as a rough guideline for how long you can stay in the sun before burning when using sunscreen. The higher the SPF, the longer it takes before you burn. For example, if your skin normally turns red after 10 minutes in the sun, with SPF 30 sunscreen you can stay in the sun for 300 minutes before burning.

 

What is the difference between UVA and UVB?

Every day, different types of UV radiation are sent our way. However, there are two types of UV rays that are important if you want to keep your skin healthy: UVA and UVB. 

 

• UVA rays are the ‘deep penetrators’. They are present every day, all year round. These rays penetrate deep into the skin layers and can cause quite a bit of damage, even if you don’t see it immediately. 

 

• UVB rays remain more on the skin surface and are responsible for that annoying burning and also for many forms of skin cancer. Although UVB makes up only a small part of UV radiation, it is particularly harmful due to its high energy.

 

Here is a way to remember: UVA = Ageing and UVB = Burning. For the very best protection, we recommend choosing a sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Our favorite brands such as CeraVe, La Roche Posay and Beauty Of Joseon, have sun protection in their skincare that can handle this. 

 

Most common mistakes when applying SPF - we help you! 

A good sunscreen with a high protection factor is very important, but of course, it’s important to apply it correctly. Many people still apply it incorrectly. Almost all of us know what it’s like to have sunburned skin. If you don’t apply it properly, you quickly risk skin aging or even skin cancer. It often goes wrong by applying too little, applying too late, or simply forgetting to reapply. We therefore recommend reapplying every two hours if you’re baking in the sun to prevent sunburn. Sensitive areas are also often forgotten. Think of the ears, lips, neck, and feet. These sensitive spots deserve the same attention as the rest of your skin. 

 

How do I create the right skincare routine with SPF?

A radiant skin starts with a good base, and SPF really should not be missing. But how do you properly incorporate it into your skincare? 

 

Step 1: Cleansing 

Always start with a mild cleanser that cleans your skin without drying it out. Think, for example, of the CeraVe Hydrating Foaming Cleanser. This cleanser is gentle, effective, and ideal for sensitive skin. 

 

Step 2: Hydration

After cleansing, it’s time for hydration. Use a light day cream or serum that suits your skin type. The CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is suitable for all skin types and is for good reason a bestseller.  

 

Step 3: SPF - your ultimate protective layer 

After a hydrating cream, you can apply your SPF. You need a full-fledged sunscreen. Curious about our recommendations?

 

• La Roche Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 Invisible Fluid SPF50+

Super light texture, no white cast, and top protection against UVA and UVB. Ideal under your makeup. Perfect for oily or acne-prone skin.

 

• Beauty Of Joseon Relief Sun Probiotics SPF50 PA+

Korean skincare sunscreen favorite with fruit extracts and probiotics. Hydrating and protective. Your skin will thank you. Ideal for dry or dehydrated skin.

 

Want to know more about SPF or other skincare products? 

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Do you have questions? Feel free to email info@haarspullen.nl or call us during office hours!

 

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