Tanning, sun protection factor & Co .: everything you need to know

Finally summer! In our comprehensive suncare guide, created with dermatologist Dr. Markus Dawid, you will find out everything you need to know about sun protection.

Finally it shows up, the sun! To make sure that not only our minds but also our skin feel radiant, we have put together everything you need to know about SPF and tan in our comprehensive Suncare Guide. Also on the sundeck: Dermatologist Dr. Markus Dawid.

How do I find the right sun protection factor?

To find out how long you can stay in the sun as carefree as possible, it is important to know the skin's own protection time - the time during which the skin can be exposed to the sun without protection. Multiplied by the SPF, you get the harmless time you spend in the sun. If the skin's self-protection time is around 10 minutes and SPF 30 is used, then up to 300 minutes of sunshine are possible. However, experts recommend using this time to a maximum of 60%, as cream is often not applied in sufficient quantities.

• Type 1: Very light skin with mostly reddish or light blond hair. Self-protection time: 10 minutes
• Type 2: Also light skin with mostly blonde to light brown hair. Self-protection time: 10-20 minutes
• Type 3: Light to medium skin color, blonde to black hair. Self-protection time: 20-30 minutes
• Type 4: Slightly tanned, olive skin tone, mostly dark hair. Self-protection time: 45 minutes
• Type 5: Darker skin with a slightly gray undertone. Self-protection time: 60 minutes
• Type 6: Dark brown to black skin with black hair. Self-protection time: 90 minutes

What is the difference between UVA and UVB rays? What is happening to the skin here?

UVB rays are mainly responsible for the development of sunburn. They only penetrate into the epidermis. UVA rays, on the other hand, reach the second layer of skin, which is why they are considered to be the cause of skin cancer. They also lead to sun-induced skin aging.

How do I recognize a sun allergy?

The long-wave UVA rays activate cells in the top layer of the skin. This can cause dermatitis. Often there is talk of so-called polymorphic light dermatosis, or PLE for short. Around Avoid sun allergy, the skin should get used to the sun slowly and use the highest possible SPF, especially in the water or in the mountains.

Do the lips need special protection?

Necessarily! Because they instruct significantly higher risk of skin canceron than any other part of the body. In the meantime, however, there are practical combination tubes that contain both sunscreen and extra care for the lips. When applying lotion, special attention should be paid to the lower lip, as it is most exposed to the sun.

Is there also sustainable sun care?

Definitely yes! The environment plays an important role in sun care. In Hawaii there has even been a since the beginning of the year Ban on sun protection with ingredients such as oxybenzones or octinoxates. It's good that coral-friendly formulations such as the "Waterlover" line from Biotherm (sun cream with SPF 50+ for € 30.95, from Douglas) are on the advance.

How is the skin optimally cared for after sunbathing?

Cream residues can be easily removed by cleaning appropriate to the skin type. Instead of granulate peelings, Dr. Dawid to use moisturizing serums and cooling products that are suitable for the climate, such as gels or lotions.

Do clouds or car windows protect against sunburn?

Natural UV protection does exist, but this is limited to trees or other shady objects. The cloud cover, on the other hand, weakens the UV radiation to a certain extent, but conceals it Danger of getting a juicy sunburn anywaypick up. Sunscreen should not be avoided in the car either, as only the windshield protects against solar radiation, but not the side windows. Here, however, can be more special by using Tinting or sun protection films can be counteracted.

Can I get enough vitamin D despite sunscreen?

Our body makes vitamin D itself. Strictly speaking, this is a hormone and is important for our bones and many other processes in the body. To do this, however, we need UVB rays, which in turn promote skin cancer. But don't do without sun protection now! It doesn't block 100 percent of the radiation. A part penetrates anyway. And this is enough to produce the important vitamin. So: stay safe!

Do UV warning stickers work?

The absolute game changer when it comes to sun protection are the new "UV warning stickers" from safer SUN (four for € 3.95, e.g. from Bipa), the Display our protection status by changing the color. This is how it works: Stick it on and apply sunscreen, let the sticker work for about 30 seconds before rubbing it in. If UV radiation penetrates the skin and the sticker turns purple, then not enough sun protection has been applied. Light purple means little protection. If the sticker remains transparent, you are well protected.

How do you protect the scalp?

Unfortunately, too often the scalp is forgotten when smeared! It needs special attention - not only because a sunburn hurts like hell on your head. In the worst case, it can even lead to hair loss. But don't panic! This can be prevented. Either with cool headgear(more on this here) or a high bun, as there is no sunburn-prone parting. Also good: transparent sun spray. It is not greasy and can also be applied precisely.

Oil, spray, gel or cream: which product suits me?

A matter of taste! Dr. Dawid recommends "light products from the teenage years. For acne, oil-free, matting or transparent formulas that do not stain delicate clothing. On the beach, a high UVA filter counts, the texture is secondary." Rule of thumb for everyone: 2 milligrams of product per square centimeter of skin, so that the specified SPF protects. Easier: about two tablespoons for the body and 1 teaspoon for the face.

Do I have to re-cream for waterproof products?

It's hard to believe, but: YES! Namely, waterproof products are not insoluble in water. According to the international definition, "waterproof" means that after two baths of 20 minutes there is still 50 percent UV protection. But we must not forget: it is also reduced by friction when drying off, by clothing, sweating and also by sand. So make sure to re-apply it, to keep the protection in full strength.

Does the sun protection come over or under the make-up?

The following order applies: moisturizing day care, sunscreen, make-up. Wait at least 15 minutes before applying the foundation so that the skin can fully absorb the active ingredients and protection can be built up. Be careful with make-up or day creams with integrated light protection! Studies show that we apply this too sparingly, which means that the protection value specified on the product is not complied with.