7 Sunscreen Facts Everyone Should Know

Save your skin from the effects of the sun with the right sunscreen selection and application this summer

Summer's just around the corner which means heightened conversations about sun protection and the importance of sunscreen debates are here! But if there’s one thing that all of the experts agree on, it’s that everyone should wear sunscreen all the year-round. The sun can work its damage at any time of the year, whether you’re basking at the beach or taking short walks with your dog. 

When it comes to skin protection and the sun, shielding against sunburn is often our number one priority. But the sun’s rays can have negative effects on our skin’s health, appearance, and coloring beyond a basic sunburn. And being wise about sun protection can help not only reduce the signs of aging but also reduce your risk for health issues including skin cancer. 

MD Glam is no stranger when it comes to sun protection. Our luxury lineup of skincare products includes top-of-the-line sun defense created with industry standards in mind. Here are some of the top facts you should keep in mind when choosing sunscreen for your daily use. 

Top Facts You Should Know About Sunscreen

#1. Look for Broad Spectrum Solutions

The sun’s rays may seem the same on the surface, but there are two main types of radiation that you need to protect against when out in the sun. Ultraviolet A (UVA) and Ultraviolet B (UVB) rays are both present when we’re sunning ourselves, but each has a different – and negative – effect on our skin. UVA is the culprit for signs of premature aging from sun exposure like dark spots and wrinkles. UVB rays are those that cause damaging sunburns and skin peeling. 

Together, UVA and UVB can wreak havoc on your skin. That’s why any sunscreen you choose should be a broad spectrum, which means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. 

#2. Don’t Go Lower Than 30 SPF

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, so it stands to reason (for the most part) that the higher the SPF in your sunscreen, the more protection you’ll have from the sun. Doctors and dermatologists typically recommend a minimum of SPF 30, which can protect against nearly 97 percent of the sun’s rays. 

Look for an SPF that’s 50 or higher for maximum coverage. Most experts note that anything above 60 offers limited additional protection. 

#3. SPF with Vitamin C Is a Top Combo 

Top-of-the-line sunscreens come packed with more than just basic sun protection. They’ll include additional minerals and vitamins to shield against the long-term effects of sun exposure including redness and signs of aging. 

And when it comes to vitamins to look for, Vitamin C is king. It can help slow down the appearance of fine lines, dark spots, and wrinkles while helping to brighten your complexion. Packed in with a daily use sunscreen, Vitamin C can help reduce redness and signs of sunburn.

#4. Use the Right Amount Especially on Your Face

Most people are hesitant to put sunscreen on their faces. After all, it’s most commonly equated with that greasy, heavy, slimy feel that the sunscreens of old had. Those who do use a facial sunscreen don’t use enough to provide the right level of protection. 

As a way to measure, consider that you should use a teaspoon of product on your face and neck. It should be applied evenly and massaged into the skin for maximum absorption at least 30 minutes before you plan on being out in the sun. 

#5. Inorganic Filters May Work Best

There are two main categories of sunscreens that are based on how they work to block the sun’s rays. Organic filters, also known as chemical sunscreens, absorb UV radiation and convert it to heat that is then expelled from your skin. Inorganic filters, on the hand, reflect UV radiation to protect your skin using physical minerals. 

Most experts recommend looking for a physical or inorganic sunscreen for the best protection. Ingredients to look for include zinc oxide and titanium dioxide which are known to scatter UV rays.

#6. Sunscreens Can Expire or Go Off

It’s always important to check the date on your bottle or jar before applying your sunscreen. If yours is past its expiration date (or close to it), you’ll want to upgrade to a fresher product. That’s because the expiration date can be a direct indicator of how effective your sunscreen will be. Using old products can leave your skin exposed to harmful rays.

It’s also important to store your sunscreen in a cool, dry place. If you leave it in the heat for extended periods (like a beach bag or car console), the product can degrade and lose its ability to fully protect your skin.

Go MD Glam for Your Sun Protection

When it comes to protecting your skin from the sun’s rays and fostering anti-aging, no one does it better than MD Glam. Our surgeon-formulated Sunshout Sunscreen was designed especially with the science of skincare and sun protection in mind.

Sunshout Sunscreen contains physical protection including zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to deflect harmful radiation from your skin before it has a chance to affect you. At an SPF 50, our sunscreen is also a broad-spectrum product with protection from UVA and UVB rays. 

We know that wearing sunscreen can be less than enjoyable, but the need for it daily outweighs any detractions. That’s why our Sunshout Sunscreen is designed to be weightless, non-greasy, and fast-absorbing, so you can wear it under your makeup every day without worrying about a white cast. Infused with Vitamin C and a variety of antioxidants, our sunscreen also helps to combat the signs of sun exposure and aging with daily use. 

MD Glam designs truly innovative products that keep in mind the most important facts when it comes to skincare so you never have to worry about sun protection that falls short.

It’s time to upgrade your sunscreen and skincare routine with the best the industry has to offer. Explore our complete line of products designed with your skin health in mind.