Smart sun protection: how to choose and use sunscreen correctly

Sunny days invite us outdoors – to the beach, in the mountains, for a walk or in the garden. The sun brings us joy and important vitamin D, but also challenges for our skin. When talking about sun protection, it is important to know why it is necessary and how to choose the right protection for yourself and your family.

Why do we need sun protection?

Not all sun rays are created equal. There are two types that we need to be especially careful of:

• UVB rays – cause sunburn. We are alerted to them by red, inflamed skin.
• UVA rays – penetrate deep into the skin and cause skin aging, wrinkles and age spots. They can also contribute to the development of skin cancer.

Because UVA rays don't cause visible burns, they are often overlooked – but that makes them all the more insidious.

What do the labels SPF 30, SPF 50 mean?

SPF (Sun Protection Factor) indicates protection against UVB rays (the ones that cause sunburn). The number tells you how much longer you can stay in the sun without getting sunburned compared to unprotected skin.

Example: If your skin starts to turn red after 10 minutes without protection, it would theoretically take 30 times longer for the same reaction to occur with SPF 30 – about 300 minutes. With SPF 50, this time is even longer.

However, this is just a theory. In practice, most people apply too little cream, so the protection is not as good as it says on the packaging.

How much cream should we apply?

To achieve the SPF listed on the packaging, you would need to apply quite a bit of cream:

• approximately 2 mg of cream per 1 cm² of skin,
• a teaspoon for the face,
• two full tablespoons for the entire body of an adult.

Let's be realistic - in practice, it is almost impossible to apply this amount of cream accurately and completely every time. That's why it is all the more important to:

• Reapply the cream after every swim, toweling, or heavy sweating.
• Don't just trust the "waterproof" label - water resistance is not indestructible protection!

The best sun protection is not just cream

The main role is played by:

• shadow,
• headgear (caps, hats),
• clothing designed to protect against UV rays.

We use the cream as an additional layer of protection, not as the only defense!

Why aren't vegetable oils enough?

Many people swear by natural plant oils (coconut, raspberry, carrot) as sunscreen. However:

• vegetable oils do not have a proven protection factor,
• they do not have standardized protection against UVA and UVB rays,
• they provide only minimal (if any) protection and are completely unreliable.

To seriously protect your skin from sun damage, you need to use a product that is tested and registered as a sunscreen.

What is the difference between mineral and chemical filters?

Mineral filters (e.g. zinc oxide, titanium dioxide):

• they act like mirrors – they reflect the sun's rays away from the skin,
• are an excellent choice for sensitive skin and children,
• they often leave a slight whitish layer on the skin (especially older formulas).

Chemical filters :

• absorb UV rays and convert them into heat,
• they spread more easily and often do not leave visible traces on the skin,
• they are safe because they are strictly tested and regulated.

What does "invisible zinc" mean?

Traditional mineral filters like zinc oxide used to leave visible white marks on the skin. Invisible Zinc is a modern version of zinc oxide:

• It has smaller particles that are still large enough to remain safe (they are not nanoparticles),
• works effectively as protection,
• does not leave a distinct white appearance on the skin,
• It allows for a more pleasant and aesthetically acceptable use of mineral protection.

SkinFairytale Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 – protection that complements the correct approach to sunbathing

At SkinFairytale, we believe in a holistic approach to sun protection – that sunscreen is not the first and only defense, but an important addition to seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and being smart in the sun.

Our Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 :

• offers broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays,
• contains gentle mineral filters,
• uses a new form of invisible zinc, so it does not leave white marks,
• It has a light, pleasant texture that absorbs quickly and does not leave a heavy feeling on the skin.
• It is free of unnecessary fragrances, suitable for sensitive skin and the whole family.

Sun protection is not just about applying cream - it's smart daily care for your skin that will thank you in the future!