Sun Protection... 1, 2, 3 Sun!

The sun is starting to show its rays... It's high time to protect yourself intelligently, and above all to find the right sunscreen.

Whether you're planning a beach holiday or a sunny city trip, whether you're heading to the Belgian coast for a day, jogging in the park, or enjoying an aperitif on a terrace after work: don't forget to protect your skin from the first sunny days. In fact, you should do it all year round, even on the cloudiest winter days. We explain why, with which SPF, filters, and products. Follow the guide

After a rather dark and depressing winter, you're probably dreaming of a sunny spring and summer, and we understand why. The sun awakens endorphins, the happy hormone, in our bodies (and therefore boosts our mood); it guarantees the natural production of vitamin D, but we now know that it is also potentially dangerous for the skin. Its rays not only cause premature aging of the skin, but they can also cause cancer and melanoma. That's why dermatologists recommend protecting yourself from the sun, and preferably every day... Why? And how? Let us refresh your memory.

How can the sun damage the skin?

The solar spectrum is divided into several types of rays: ultraviolet, infrared, and white light. You should especially protect your skin from the former.

Although UV rays only represent about 6% of the solar spectrum, they have major effects on the skin. They consist of UVA, UVB, and UVC rays. The latter are blocked by the ozone layer; the other two are not. They each have a different effect on the skin, but both can cause skin cancer.

- UVB rays— with a "b" for "burn"—can burn your skin. These rays don't penetrate deeply, but they cause invisible damage to the skin's surface. On the plus side, UVB rays allow our bodies to produce vitamin D, which is beneficial for our bones and immune system. Its radiation is strongest in summer.

- UVA rays – with an “a” for “age” – you don’t feel them, but they penetrate deep into the skin and cause the most damage. UVA rays cause premature skin aging (wrinkles, pigment spots, and sagging skin), but they also affect DNA. Their radiation is the same intensity all day and all year round, not to mention that they pass through clouds and the glass of our windows, which is why it is recommended to apply sunscreen even in winter, or when the sun is hidden by clouds.

To protect your skin against UVB rays: choose the right SPF

Protecting your skin from UVB rays (and sunburn) is best done by applying a skincare product with SPF. SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor . But what does that mean exactly?

- In theory, with SPF30 you are protected against sunburn 30 times longer than if you did not apply sunscreen. If you start to burn after 5 minutes without sunscreen, then with SPF30 it will only be after 150 minutes or 2.5 hours. (5 minutes x 30 = 150 minutes.)

But: this only applies if you apply enough product. And that's a lot: no less than 2 milligrams per square centimeter, which is equivalent to half a teaspoon or two fingers of face cream. If you apply less, you're consequently less well protected.

- The higher the SPF, the more it blocks the sun's rays. For example, SPF 15 protects the skin against 93% of UVB rays, SPF 30 rises to nearly 97%, and SPF 50 blocks 98% of the rays. (Again, if you apply the right amount.)

- In fact, your skin color and its sensitivity to the sun also play a role in your choice of SPF, as do UVB strength and the amount of sunscreen you use. A tip? The lighter your skin, the higher your SPF should be. Pale skin that is sensitive to the sun should use a high SPF50, while darker skin can be adequately protected with SPF15.

Location also plays a role: the closer you are to the equator, the stronger the UV rays. UV radiation is also higher in the mountains and deserts. Regardless of your skin color, you should apply SPF 50 for optimal protection. High protection is also recommended at the beach, where UV rays are reflected by the sand and water. SPF 30 is a minimum if you don't burn easily but prefer SPF 50.

And if you want to delay skin aging as much as possible or you tend to get pigment spots, always use a high factor.

What about UVA protection? The benefits of broad-spectrum products.

A product's SPF only indicates its protection against UVB rays, not UVA rays. The good news: in the EU, a sunscreen product must also protect the skin against UVA rays. And this UVA protection must be at least 1/3 of the UVB protection.

You can recognize that a product also protects your skin against UVA by the broad spectrum statement on the packaging, or by the UVA symbol surrounded by a circle.

What is the difference between mineral and synthetic filters?

Mineral and synthetic sunscreens protect the skin from UV rays, but do so in (slightly) different ways.

- Synthetic filters act in the upper layers of the skin, where they convert UV rays into energy, rendering them harmless. They can be worked into more liquid and smooth textures, easier to apply than mineral filters.

The downside: You can more easily develop an allergic reaction to these types of filters, especially if you have sensitive or reactive skin.

Good to know: Synthetic filters are also sometimes called chemical filters. But this term is a bit of a misnomer: ultimately, every cosmetic ingredient is a chemical, including water.

- There are about thirty synthetic filters used in cosmetics, but there are only two mineral filters : titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. They also work in the upper layers of the skin. They form a sort of shield on the skin that reflects the sun's rays, but they also absorb some UV rays.

As they present virtually no risk of allergy, they are recommended for sensitive skin that does not tolerate synthetic filters, or after an intense skin treatment such as a chemical peel, for example.

As you will have understood, the choice of filters depends on your preference (and that of your skin) as you will apply it generously several times a day.

OUR SELECTION

All our sunscreens contain broad-spectrum filters that protect against both UVA and UVB rays. All you have to do is choose the one that's right for you based on its formulation: a formula for sensitive or anti-aging skin, with a dry or lightly tinted feel, in spray or milk form... The choice is yours.

Our bestseller: Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF50 from COSRX

Korea's most popular sunscreen and our undisputed bestseller. Completely invisible, it combines SPF50 sun protection with hydration thanks to aloe vera. Absolutely perfect for protected and well-hydrated skin in all seasons.

The gentlest for reactive skin: British Summertime SPF30 from Pai Skincare.

The perfect sunscreen for even the most sensitive or eczema-prone skin, but it's also suitable for normal skin. Its zinc oxide formula is enriched with cotton extract, a highly antioxidant ingredient, and leaves a streak-free, satiny finish.

For blemish-prone skin: Benton Skin Fit Mineral Sun Cream SPF 50

A very high mineral sunscreen to protect combination or acne-prone skin, formulated with niacinamide and calamine. It leaves absolutely no whitish film.

Your all-in-one day cream : Resist Anti-Aging Day Cream SPF50 from Paula's Choice.

If you have combination or oily skin, this lightweight day cream absorbs instantly, leaving no white cast and mattifying. Soothing plant antioxidants help fight signs of aging and protect skin.

For a matte effect: REN Clean Screen Solar Matifying Face Protection SPF30.  

A light texture with zinc oxide, which protects against UV rays but also against blue light and pollution. 

Your anti-aging solution: Age Smart Dynamic Recovery SPF50 from Dermalogica.

The lightweight formula hydrates, softens and boosts skin elasticity, while ensuring optimal protection.

Multitasking for makeup fans: Makeup Fixing Spray with Green Tea and Aloe Vera SPF30 from Coola.

A spray that sets makeup, moisturizes, strengthens, and protects the skin. It's also quite effective as a finishing touch over sunscreen.