Frequently Asked Questions about Sunscreens
- Which sunscreen is right for your skin type?
- What’s the difference between mineral and chemical UV filters?
- Are sunscreens harmful to the ocean and coral reefs?
- Is sunscreen necessary in winter, too?
- Which sunscreen is suitable for babies and children?
- How long does sunscreen last and how should it be stored?
Why is using sunscreen so important?
Sunscreen protects your skin from sun-related damage, premature aging, and skin cancer.
UV radiation from the sun is a major contributor to premature skin aging and one of the leading causes of skin cancer. The face is exposed to sunlight every day, often without us even realizing it: during a walk, near a window, or through reflected rays in the shade. That’s why daily sun protection isn’t a seasonal concern, but a fundamental step in any skincare routine. It not only helps prevent sunburn, but also protects the skin from wrinkles, dark spots, and loss of elasticity.
Expert tip:
It’s not just your face – other parts of your body are also exposed to UV rays on a daily basis. That’s why we recommend using specially formulated body sunscreens to protect these areas effectively.
What’s the difference between UVA and UVB rays?
UVB rays are shorter in wavelength, affect the outer layers of the skin, and cause immediate damage like sunburn. UVA rays, on the other hand, penetrate deeper into the skin and are responsible for long-term effects such as wrinkles, dark spots, and skin cancer.
UVA rays are especially insidious because they can pass through clouds and glass all year round and gradually damage collagen fibers. That’s why a reliable sunscreen must protect against both UVA and UVB radiation.
Expert tip:
You can tell if a sunscreen protects against UVA rays by looking for terms like “broad-spectrum protection” or the UVA symbol on the packaging.
What does SPF (Sun Protection Factor) actually mean?
SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, indicates how long a sunscreen protects your skin from UVB rays – the ones responsible for sunburn.
For example, SPF 30 means your skin’s natural protection is extended by a factor of 30. However, the actual level of protection depends on how much sunscreen you apply, how often you reapply it, and your individual skin type. To maintain effective protection, sunscreen should always be applied generously and reapplied regularly.
Expert tip:
SPF ratings primarily refer to protection against UVB rays. To ensure your sunscreen also protects against UVA rays, look for the UVA symbol on the packaging.
Which SPF is best for your face?
For daily facial use, a high SPF is recommended – at least SPF 30, ideally SPF 50.
While SPF 30 blocks around 97% of UVB rays, SPF 50 offers about 98% protection. This difference may seem minimal, but it can make a real difference for sensitive, fair, or mature skin. Especially during the summer, at high altitudes, or in intense sun exposure, SPF 50 is the better choice.
How often should you apply sunscreen to your face?
To keep your skin consistently protected, sunscreen needs to be applied regularly.
Ideally, start your morning routine with a generous amount (about two finger-lengths) for the entire face. Here’s what you should know: Mineral sunscreens with filters like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide offer immediate protection upon application. Chemical sunscreens, however, require around 15 to 30 minutes to become fully effective.
Throughout the day, reapply approximately every two hours, especially after sweating, swimming, or towel-drying your face. This is the only way to maintain the SPF and ensure your skin stays well protected from UV damage.
How should you apply sunscreen to your face?
Sunscreen should be the final step in your morning skincare routine – after cleansing, toner, serum, and moisturizer.
Apply about two finger-lengths of sunscreen evenly across your entire face, including the hairline, ears, and décolleté. Important: Gently pat it into the skin rather than rubbing it in too aggressively, to avoid disrupting the protective layer.
Expert tip:
To soothe and restore your skin after sun exposure, we recommend using a nourishing after-sun product.
Which sunscreen is right for your skin type?
The ideal sunscreen depends on your skin’s individual needs:
- Dry skin: Rich textures with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or plant-based oils
- Oily or blemish-prone skin: Lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas that won’t clog pores
- Sensitive or rosacea-prone skin: Soothing sunscreens with mineral filters and no potentially irritating ingredients like fragrances, essential oils, or alcohol
- Mature skin: Products with high UVA protection, natural antioxidants, and anti-aging ingredients such as vitamin E or prickly pear extract
What’s the difference between mineral and chemical UV filters?
Mineral filters, such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, physically reflect UV rays. They offer immediate protection, are well tolerated by sensitive skin, and are considered reef-safe and environmentally friendly: they don’t dissolve in water, don’t accumulate in marine organisms, and don’t harm the delicate coral reef ecosystem.
Chemical filters, on the other hand, absorb UV rays and convert them into heat. They penetrate deeper into the skin and are typically easier to spread—but may cause irritation for sensitive skin types.
Want to learn more about how mineral sunscreens work—and why they’re so skin- and eco-friendly?
Are sunscreens harmful to the ocean and coral reefs?
Some chemical UV filters—such as oxybenzone or octinoxate—are suspected of harming coral reefs by disrupting marine ecosystems and impairing the growth of young corals.
Environmentally friendly sunscreens with mineral filters or reef-friendly chemical formulations are a better choice. These options are biodegradable, free from microplastics, and do not contain harmful ingredients that could impact marine life.
Ingredients to avoid in sunscreens:
- Oxybenzone
- Octinoxate
- Octocrylene
- Homosalate
- Enzacamene
- Any nanoparticles (e.g., nano zinc oxide or nano titanium dioxide)
- Silicones
- Parabens
- Mineral oils
- Microplastics such as polyethylene
Is sunscreen necessary in winter, too?
Yes, UVA rays are active year-round and can penetrate both clouds and window glass.
In fact, UV exposure can be especially intense during winter holidays or in snowy environments, where sunlight is strongly reflected. That’s why daily sun protection is essential regardless of the season. It helps prevent photoaging and should remain a key part of your skincare routine – even in winter.
Which sunscreen is suitable for babies and children?
For the delicate skin of babies and children, dermatologists recommend a high SPF (50+) combined with a gentle, non-irritating formula that’s free from alcohol, synthetic fragrances, and microplastics.
That’s exactly what our Ultra Light Sun Block SPF 50+ delivers: a natural, vegan formula that contains no alcohol, no synthetic fragrances, and no potentially irritating ingredients—while providing reliable broad-spectrum protection.
Expert tip:
Babies under one year should be kept out of direct sunlight whenever possible. Lightweight clothing, a sun hat, and staying in the shade offer the best protection.
How long does sunscreen last and how should it be stored?
Natural sunscreens should be used within 6 to 8 months after opening.
Proper storage is essential to maintain consistent sun protection: keep sunscreen away from direct sunlight and excessive heat. The ideal storage is cool, dry, and out of the light. Especially during summer, it’s best to store the product in the shade or in a bag and move it back to a cool place after sun exposure.
Expert tip:
Changes in smell, texture, or color may indicate reduced effectiveness. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to stop using the product.
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