Sun, bath and protection: Your guide to finding the perfect sunscreen for summer

Summer is finally here, and with it comes sunny days, warm temperatures and great times at the beach or pool. But to fully enjoy these sun-kissed days, it is important to protect your skin from the sun's strong rays. A good sunscreen is therefore an indispensable part of your summer routine. In this article, we take you through everything you need to know to find the perfect sunscreen, including tips on K-beauty favorites that will give your skin the best protection while keeping it hydrated and fresh.

Whether you're a sunscreen novice or a seasoned sunscreen lover, this guide will help you find the right product for your skin type and lifestyle. So sit back, relax and let us guide you to a safe and radiant summer.

Why sun protection is so important for our skin

Long-term effects of sun damage on the skin

Sunscreen is essential to protect our skin from the harmful effects of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. UVA and UVB rays can cause burns, premature skin ageing, hyperpigmentation and increase the risk of skin cancer. By using sunscreen, you can reduce these risks and preserve the health and appearance of your skin.

The difference between physical and chemical sun protection

Choosing between physical and chemical sun protection products

Physical sunscreens contain minerals such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which work by reflecting the sun's rays off the skin. Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, absorb the UV rays and convert them into heat which is then emitted from the skin. The choice between physical and chemical sunscreens depends on personal preference, skin sensitivity and environmental concerns. Physical sunscreens are considered more gentle on sensitive skin and have less negative impact on the environment, while chemical sunscreens often have a lighter consistency and can be easier to apply.

How much sunscreen should I use and how often should I reapply?

Best practices for applying sunscreen for optimal protection

To ensure adequate protection, it is recommended to apply about one teaspoon of sunscreen on the face and one shot glass (30 ml) for the whole body. Sunscreen should be applied 15-30 minutes before tanning and reapplied every two hours, or more often if you are bathing, sweating or drying yourself with a towel.

Choosing the right sun protection factor (SPF) for your skin type

Find the sun protection factor that suits your skin best

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and indicates how long the sunscreen protects against UVB rays compared to unprotected skin. According to dermatologists, you should use sunscreen with at least a SPF 30, which blocks about 97% of UVB rays. However, it is important to adjust SPF to your skin type, sun intensity and time spent outdoors.

K-Beauty and sun protection: What makes Korean sunscreens unique?

Ingredients and technologies that characterize Korean sunscreen products

K-Beauty-sunscreens have received much attention for their innovative formulations, light consistencies and high levels of protection. They often contain ingredients such as niacinamide, Centella Asiatica and green tea, which have soothing, moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties. Korean sunscreen is also known to absorb quickly without leaving a white film on the skin, making it popular with all skin types and tones.

Sun protection for face and body: Is there a difference?

Using different sunscreens for face and body

Sunscreen products for the face are often more lightweight and non-comedogenic, meaning they don't clog pores and cause acne. In addition, they may contain special ingredients that help moisturize and nourish facial skin. While it is possible to use body sunscreen on the face, this can sometimes lead to unwanted effects such as breakouts and oily skin. Therefore, it may be beneficial to invest in a specific sunscreen for the face.

Sunscreen for different skin types: sensitive, acne-prone, dry and mature skin

Sunscreen ingredients for specific skin types

For sensitive skin, it is best to use physical sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as these are less likely to irritate the skin. For acne-prone skin, oil-free and non-comedogenic products are preferable. Dry skin can benefit from sunscreens containing moisturizing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and glycerine. For mature skin, sunscreens with antioxidants and anti-aging ingredients such as retinol and vitamin C are recommended.

Eco-friendly sunscreens: how does sun protection affect the environment?

Sunscreen ingredients and their impacts on coral reefs and aquatic ecosystems

Some chemical sunscreen ingredients, such as oxybenzone and octinoxate, have been shown to damage coral reefs and marine ecosystems. It is therefore important to choose environmentally friendly sunscreen products, especially when swimming in the sea. Physical sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide (non-nano) are usually more environmentally friendly.

Sun protection for children: what should I consider when choosing sunscreen for my children?

The safety of adult sunscreens on children and specific products

Children have more sensitive skin than adults, so it is important to choose sun protection products that are specifically designed for their skin. Children's sunscreens should be free of potentially irritating substances, such as perfume and harsh chemicals, and have a high level of safety. SPF to provide optimal protection. Physical sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are generally more gentle on children's skin and are often recommended by dermatologists. When choosing sunscreen for your child, look for products that are labeled as 'child-friendly' or 'sensitive' to ensure they are adapted to their skin needs.

Sun protection and makeup: How do I combine sun protection with my daily makeup routine?

Sunscreens that work best under makeup and proper application

To combine sun protection with your makeup routine, it is important to choose a sunscreen that is lightweight, absorbs quickly and does not leave a white film on the skin. There are sunscreens specifically designed to work under makeup, and some makeup products also contain sunscreen. After applying sunscreen and allowing it to absorb properly, you can continue with your regular makeup routine.

Remember that makeup with built-in sun protection often does not provide enough protection on its own, so it is important to use a separate sunscreen first. Reapply the sunscreen regularly throughout the day, either by using a makeup with a SPF or a light, translucent sunscreen spray specially designed for the face.

Summary sun, bath and sun protection

Using sunscreen is essential to prevent sunburn, premature skin ageing and skin cancer. It is important to understand the differences between physical and chemical sunscreens, and to adapt the SPF to your skin type and sun intensity.

K-Beauty-Sunscreens are distinguished by their innovative formulations, light consistencies and high levels of protection. They often contain soothing and moisturizing ingredients that make them popular with all skin types and tones. In addition, it is important to choose the right sunscreen for your face and body, and to consider different skin types, such as sensitive, acne-prone, dry and mature skin.

Eco-friendly sunscreens are important to minimize harmful effects on coral reefs and marine ecosystems. Children's skin requires specially adapted sunscreen products to ensure optimal protection. Finally, it is important to combine sun protection with your daily makeup routine by choosing lightweight sunscreens that absorb quickly and work well under makeup.