Sun protection factor, or just protection factor? Sunscreen protects against so much more than just the sun's rays, however, many people only use this type of product during the three hottest summer months, but according to the Korean skincare routine, an SPF should be used daily as the last product in the morning routine to protect the skin against harmful factors in our environment.  

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month - the month in which dermatologists and skin care professionals around the world raise awareness of skin cancer and encourage people to protect their skin and check for suspicious skin changes. Using sunscreen daily is a step in the right direction for optimal skin health for life.  

To begin with, we will quickly and easily go through the differences between chemical vs. physical sunscreen.  

How much product should you use? About 3 fingers is a good amount to cover both your face and neck.

A chemical sunscreen (also called organic sunscreen) means that the active SPF substances are absorbed by the skin and upon contact with UV rays, the rays are "transformed" into non-harmful rays.

Benefits : Usually leaves no film or is physically visible on the skin, invisible on the skin and with a lighter consistency.
Disadvantages : A chemical sunscreen generates more heat in the skin due to the rays being “absorbed” (but don't forget that they are harmless despite this), so if you are sensitive to heat or easily flare up and blush, a chemical sunscreen is not for you.

Who is it for? Normal, dry, combination or mature skin can choose a chemical sunscreen. (These are general recommendations, at the end of the day, the sunscreen that feels best to you is the best.)  

Physical sunscreen (also called mineral sunscreen) means that the active SPF ingredients (usually the minerals zinc and/or titanium dioxide) form a protective barrier on the skin and reflect the sun's rays like a mirror, protecting the skin against harmful radiation.
Advantages : Better suited to sensitive or acne-prone skin that easily reacts to new products or especially heat. Zinc oxide is good for wound healing and cell renewal. Disadvantages : Can sometimes leave a so-called “White cast” due to the minerals. But not to condemn the Korean physical sunscreens which have a more developed formula than the sunscreen products we may remember from our childhood.  

Who is it for? Sensitive, rosacea-prone or acne-prone skin can benefit from a physical sunscreen. (These are general recommendations, at the end of the day, the sunscreen that feels best to you is the best.)  

Now that you have an idea of ​​the differences between chemical and physical sunscreen, let's go through our range of products within the two different categories.   

CHEMICAL SUNSCREEN: 

NEW! THE FAVORITE FOR THE WHOLE BODY AND THE WHOLE FAMILY .  

First up is a waterproof version of Dr.Ceuracle's bestseller " Cica Regen Waterproof Sun Gel " - in an extra generous size, namely 100ml! This is the sunscreen with a capital S for the whole family who loves to be in the bath, needs to reapply often, those who exercise a lot or want a Korean sunscreen for the body! The product is also suitable for children.  

It is a chemical sunscreen with very soothing centella that repairs a damaged skin barrier. Also enriched with bamboo poly C10-30 Alkyl that protects against harmful UV rays.  

 

NEW #2 FOR ACNE-PRONE / BLOODY SKIN.  

New product #2 from Dr.Ceuracle is suitable for oily or acne-prone skin. “Tea Tree Purifine Green Up Sun” . A physical/mineral sunscreen that moisturizes, has a calming effect thanks to Tea Tree extract and color corrects thanks to a natural “green shade” that neutralizes redness from acne or rosacea. Also contains ''Green Calming Complex'' which has a calming effect on sensitive, irritated and acne-prone skin without irritating.  

Also contains hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid for deep hydration and niacinamide to repair and brighten a damaged skin barrier compromised by acne treatment. Completely pigment- and fragrance-free.  

COMPLETE LIGHT PROTECTION.  

BY WISHTREND - UV Defense Moist Cream is a quadruple sunscreen with SPF 50+ PA++++ that provides complete protection against UVA, UVB, infrared radiation and blue light.  

It is a chemical sunscreen with a light texture that absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a sticky finish. Formulated with panthenol, which acts as a deep moisturizer, this SPF hydrates as much as a moisturizer, allowing you to simplify your routine and avoid using both moisturizer and SPF. Also contains adenosine, which has anti-aging properties and works towards a smoother skin texture.  

SPF FOR THE DRY ICE.  

Dr. Ceuracle Hyal Reyouth Moist Sun is a daily moisturizer with chemical UV protection that contains SPF 50 PA++++. Contains 10 different types of Hyaluronic Acid that deeply moisturize and strengthen the barrier. The high-molecular types create a moisture barrier on the skin that prevents moisture loss. Smaller molecules work to strengthen the moisture barrier and low-molecular ones help the skin with deep, long-lasting hydration and strengthen the skin's elasticity.  

Also contains Panthenol (Vitamin B5) and Fructan which both work to moisturize and increase elasticity. This sunscreen also has anti-aging and smoothing effects.  

The formula is reminiscent of a lovely essence/serum and sinks quickly into the skin without leaving any sticky or white finish.  

 

3-IN-1 SUN PROTECTION.  

Dr. Ceuracle Cica Regen Vegan Sun Gel is the perfect all-in-one product for moisture, nourishment and sun protection in one product! By acting as both sunscreen, serum and moisturizer, it is the perfect 3-in-1 product to simplify your daily morning routine!  

The product contains SPF 50 and deeply moisturizes while protecting against harmful UVA/UVB radiation.  

Contains Actinidia Argute (Kiwi) Extract which has nice anti-inflammatory effects on the skin. Hibiscus Sabdariffa Flower Extract helps create a barrier against external harmful factors.  

The lightweight texture sinks into the skin quickly, leaving no white cast and providing long-lasting hydration, perfect as a base for make-up. It also contains Centella Complex which instantly soothes and repairs damaged and sensitive skin.  

Contains a faint scent of rosemary oil.
 

LIKE LIGHTLY WHIPED CREAM.  

Klairs All-Day Airy Sunscreen is a hydrating moisturizer with SPF 50+ PA++++ that protects your skin from UV rays without leaving a white cast. The lightweight texture and refreshing finish leave your skin feeling soft, hydrated without feeling sticky. Formulated with gentle ingredients, this sunscreen is suitable for all skin types without irritation. Developed with intensive and advanced technology to be safe and comfortable for your skin.  

The product has undergone extensive testing at 3 different clinical institutions (Korea Dermatology Research Institute, Global Cosmeceutical Center of Semyung University and Cosmeservice.) All show SPF Index Result SPF 50+ PA++++  

Hyggee Vegan Sun Cream SPF50+ PA++++ is a high-performance sunscreen that nourishes and cares for the skin. This sunscreen is also completely vegan.  

 

FOR THE EXTRA SENSITIVE.  

Hyggee Vegan Sun Cream is a hypoallergenic sunscreen with SPF 50+ PA++++ for sun protection. It is formulated with chlorella vulgaris and beetroot extract to help keep skin plump, plumped and hydrated. The texture is light and essence-like, and sinks smoothly into the skin without leaving a white cast.  

This is a chemical sunscreen. Contains no artificial colors or fragrances, however, the product may have a faint scent from its natural ingredients.  

 

MOISTURIZING AND SOOTHING FOR ALL SKIN TYPES.  

Hyggee Relief Sun Moisturizer SPF50+ PA++++ is a high-performance sunscreen with a light texture that soothes the skin. It also works against premature skin aging and has a smoothing effect that leaves the skin hydrated and supple.  

Formulated with 37% cypress water that deeply moisturizes the skin for a long time. Bisabolol soothes the skin and is good for hot, irritated skin. Aquaxul has a barrier-strengthening effect and helps the skin retain moisture deep down in the different layers of the skin.
Made with only mild ingredients to suit even sensitive skin, the texture is light and applies smoothly to the skin without leaving any sticky or white finish. 

This sunscreen is water-repellent but not waterproof, so reapply regularly or after swimming.  

 

COMBINED PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL SUNSCREEN :  

Hyggee Real Sun Cream SPF50+ PA++++ is a high-performance sunscreen with a light texture that is soothing to the skin. A hypoallergenic sunscreen with a very light formula that applies smoothly to the skin without leaving any sticky or white finish.  

Enriched with lotus seed extract that moisturizes and soothes the skin. Also contains pore powder that dampens and controls the oil level in the skin and helps to make the skin soft and smooth. This is a combined physical and chemical sunscreen that protects the skin both by physically reflecting the ultraviolet rays away from the skin, and the chemical protection where the molecules in the filter capture the UV radiation and convert it into harmless radiation.  

SPF IN MAKEUP.

No one has missed CCC-cream from CLE Cosmetics . CCC Cream (Color Control & Change Cream) is a light all-in-one primer and foundation that contains SPF 50 PA +++. So it works as both a primer, BB and CC cream. Micro Capsule Technology means that it smoothly blends into the skin and adapts to your skin tone.

The result is dewy, hydrated skin with light coverage that improves skin aesthetics and vitality with a stunning glow!

- Micro Capsule Technology
- Lightweight and satin-like finish
- Provides sheer yet buildable coverage
- Broad Spectrum SPF 50 PA +++
- Free from all synthetic fragrances (Light scent of Bergamot (Furocoumarin-free), Orange and Ylang Ylang essential oils

Now available in more shades!

Klair's Illuminating Supple Blemish Cream

This bb cream is the best-selling of all Korean brands on the market. "The No.1 BB cream" that women all over the world love! It is suitable for all skin types. Save time in the morning by using this cream that contains moisture, anti-aging, sunscreen and foundation in one.

• Sinks easily into the skin
• Covers redness and pores
• Has SPF 40
• Does not irritate or stain
• Also contains hyaluronic acid which slows down skin aging
• Suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone and sensitive skin
• Contains only natural ingredients, no artificial colors

Vegan Kombucha Tea BB Cream

This is a non-irritating, completely vegan BB cream. With a light and hydrating texture, it blends easily into the skin without feeling heavy or sticky. It has light coverage and can be worn as a tinted day cream or as a light make-up. The formula is a hybrid of BB Cream and essence, which means it hydrates, breathes and blends with the skin.

Provides a healthy, natural glow without feeling greasy on the skin. It also helps the skin with nourishing ingredients and physical UV protection with SPF 30, PA++.

Contains 20% Kombucha Tea extract which helps the skin with probiotics, vitamin B and many other nutrients that help release toxins and strengthen the skin's immunity.

12% Camelia Sinensis Leaf Water also contains a variety of nutrients, tannins, amino acids and proteins that have a detoxifying effect and also help to counteract the signs of aging.

Other main ingredients are Schidandra Chinensis Fruit Extract which has a pore-cleansing effect and contributes to a finer and healthier skin structure. Vegan Panthenol and Hyaluronic Acid which contain, among other things, Vitamin D and Beta Glucan deeply moisturize the skin and strengthen the skin barrier.

The packaging consists of both recycled plastic (tube) and paper (outer packaging) that is FSC labeled and recyclable.

The ABC's of UV rays. A crash course.  

The sun's rays can be likened to a somewhat complicated and destructive relationship. It gives us lots of positive things in the form of light, warmth, vitamin D and feel-good hormones. But the sun can also do a lot of damage that may not show up immediately but several decades later.  

The sun produces high-energy UVA, UVB and UVC rays. The latter, UVC , is not something you need to worry about as these rays don't even reach the Earth's surface but are absorbed by the atmosphere. UVC rays are the most energetic and if they had reached us on Earth, we would have needed more than just sunscreen.  

UVA and UVB rays, on the other hand, reach us and our skin more or less every day. Some of these rays even penetrate windows and panes, more on that soon!  

UVA rays make up the largest proportion of radiation from the sun, it has less energy than UVB but penetrates deeper into the skin and causes collagen breakdown, i.e. the protein that builds the skin and gives it firmness and stuns “for that healthy glow.” UVA – “Age” is an easy metaphor to remember. UVA rays also penetrate through windows and glass, so keep that in mind if you work near a large window or drive a lot!  

What does UVA do?  

• Darken the skin which can damage the pigment cells.  
• Penetrates into the deeper layers of the skin.  
• Aging the skin prematurely.  
• Can cause malignant melanoma or squamous cell carcinoma, two of the more dangerous forms of skin cancer.  
• Can break down vitamin D in the skin.  

If you use a tanning bed, you expose your skin to even more UVA than natural sunlight, which is definitely not something we recommend.  

UVB rays are more energetic and therefore penetrate more superficially into the skin, which is why they can be compared to the English word “Burn” as they are the UVB rays that make us burn. UVB rays also start the production of vitamin D in the skin, doesn't that sound promising? Sunlight is absolutely beneficial even in moderate doses. Note the last point under the question “What does UVA do?” - breaks down vitamin D in the skin.” It is therefore counterproductive for health to sunbathe too much.  

What does UVB do?  

• Burns the skin and increases the production of pigment cells which can lead to hyperpigmentation.  
• Thickens the skin due to an increased number of skin cells from irresponsible sunbathing. This can be seen in older people who have sunbathed a lot and for a long time during their lifetime.  
• Aging the skin prematurely, which can lead to skin cancer.  
• Starts the production of Vitamin D.
  
  

Did you know this about light and dark skin color?  

The fact that the skin becomes browner and darker is a direct defense mechanism of the skin when exposed to sunlight. The same applies to the thickening of the skin caused by sun exposure, the skin produces more skin cells to protect you from getting burned even more.  

This means that a dark-skinned person has better natural protection against UV radiation than a light-skinned person who burns easily BUT the natural protection is still quite far (around 9-13 SPF) and a darker skin tone still needs to protect itself to avoid health risks.  

SPF + antioxidants = true.

Antioxidants prevent our cells from oxidizing. That is, they prevent free radicals from harmful factors that are abundant in UV rays, blue light, red light, chemicals, exhaust gases and foods we come into contact with daily. Many sunscreen products are enriched with antioxidants in the form of vitamins, but if you want to be on the safe side when it comes to protecting your skin, you can add a vitamin serum to your evening routine to get full protection around the clock! Examples of antioxidants are vitamins B, C, E, reservatrol, ginseng, etc.

Add a vitamin C serum to your evening routine for maximum protection against free radicals around the clock!

Do you turn red when you sunbathe?  

You have just created inflammation in the skin as your skin has not been protected or managed to protect itself naturally. Inflammation shows up as redness and this can potentially lead to skin cancer several years later, skin cells have “elephant memory” which means they do not forget an injury. This is why skin cancer is more common among adults than children and adolescents.  

What does SPF mean?  

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and is the protection against UVB radiation. For a sunscreen to also protect against UVA, it must be stated on the product, usually in the form of UVA circled or with “PA++++”.  

What does the number mean? 

The number after SPF, e.g. 15,20, 30 or 50, indicates how many times more protection you get from the sun. So with SPF 50 you get 50 times more protection than if you had not worn any protection at all. There is a fairly small percentage difference between SPF 30 and SPF 50. SPF30 protects about 97% and SPF 50 98%, so we always recommend as high protection as possible together with clothing and hats as a cream does not guarantee 100% protection.
Don't forget to reapply every two hours, especially if you swim or sweat a lot!  

What does PA++++ mean?  

"PA" followed by one or more plus signs is a classification system that describes how much UVA protection a product has. All sunscreens we sell have PA++++ which is the highest classification and stands for "extremely high UVA protection".  

SPF in makeup.

Is great! But is usually not enough as you rarely apply as much make-up as you should sunscreen. To be sure you get the right protection, take about 3 fingers of your usual sunscreen product as the last step in your skincare routine and then follow up with your make-up product that also contains SPF. This is called “double SPF” and gives you extra protection along with an even base!  

Have you tried our popular CCC-Cream from CLE Cosmetics? You can find it here.

Reapply SPF.  

This is especially important if you sweat a lot or bathe frequently. Reapply every two hours.
How do you reapply if you wear makeup? One option is to take a makeup brush or sponge and apply SPF to it to gently push the product into the skin, avoid pulling and swiping as you can easily move the makeup. You can also use a cushion product such as CLE Moonlighter Cushion Highlighter and drop sunscreen into the cushion and apply with the accompanying applicator.  

What happens if you don't use SPF?

Your skin breaks down faster due to free radicals in your environment and from UV radiation. This means that the skin will lose moisture and fat more quickly, two absolutely essential building blocks that give elasticity and plumpness to the skin. Signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles manifest themselves more quickly.  

You increase the risk of burning your skin. If you burn your skin, it damages the skin by causing inflammation. A burn caused at a young age can lead to benign and malignant cancers in adulthood.  

You increase the risk of hypo- and hyperpigmentation, lighter or darker pigmentation in the skin, such as melasma, which is triggered by both sunlight and hormones.  

Above all, you significantly increase your risk of developing basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma or malignant melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer.  

Prevent skin cancer and stay on top of it with this ABCDE guide! Be vigilant about your skin and its changes in liver spots and birthmarks. These points  

A – Asymmetry - irregularity  

B – Border  

C – Color  

D – Diameter / Size  

E – Evolving / Elevations, changes  

Image: https://www.outerbanksdermatology.com/blog/what-is-the-abcde-rule-of-skin-cance r

Always contact your healthcare center or dermatologist if you suspect unusual skin changes.

We hope you have gained valuable information regarding sunscreen and its effects and properties from this blog post. Do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions regarding sunscreen products.

Stay safe in the sun! <3

/ Team GLOWiD.