Cosmetologist named the most effective sunscreens

An effective sunscreen is not just the SPF number on the package. This is a well-chosen product that meets the conditions, type of your skin and its current condition. Natalia Mikhailova, PhD, dermatovenerologist, cosmetologist, and creator of the MESALTERA by Dr. Mikhaylova brand of professional cosmeceuticals, told Izvestia on August 2 how to choose the right sunscreen.

Regular and proper use of sunscreen is the most important step in the prevention of burns, photoaging, hyperpigmentation, and even skin cancer.

"Choose a product with a wide range of protection against two types of ultraviolet rays — UVA and UVB. The former cause photoaging, the latter cause sunburn and DNA damage. If we are talking about summer time, vacations, staying by the sea or just under the active sun, you need to use a cream with SPF 50+. This rule applies not only to relaxing on the beach, but also to UV exposure in the city," Mikhailova said.

In cooler months, such as September or October, when solar activity decreases, SPF 30 may be sufficient for daily use.

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The expert warned: it is important that the product is suitable for the type and condition of the skin. It should not cause irritation, itching, burning, or discomfort. If the skin reacts negatively to the cream, the person will not use it regularly, which means that the protection will be ineffective.

"If you plan to stay near the water, swim, exercise, or just sweat a lot, pay attention to water-resistant products. They stay on the skin better, but require more thorough cleansing at the end of the day, as they do not wash off well. In addition, such creams usually have a thicker, greasier texture, which is not suitable for everyone. Therefore, if you are ready to update the cream regularly, it is better to use regular products," the cosmetologist added.

She clarified that ideally, after bathing, you first need to wash off the sea water from your skin so that the salt does not dry it out, wipe it dry with a towel and only then reapply the cream.

For people with sensitive skin, dermatological diseases (for example, acne, atopic dermatitis) or after cosmetic procedures (injections, peels, etc.), it is especially important to choose sunscreens with a multifunctional composition. Such creams often contain not only sunscreen filters, but also additional components that repair the skin and protect it from damage.

It is good if chemical and physical filters are present in the composition of the product at the same time. Physical (for example, zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) reflect the sun's rays, chemical (tinosorb, mexoryl, juvinul) absorb them. Previously, physical filters left a white coating on the skin, but modern formulas allow you to avoid this by combining components.

"Pay attention to additional healthy ingredients. Antioxidants, such as mulberry extract, Centella asiatica, neutralize free radicals that are formed by the action of the sun. Hyaluronic acid moisturizes the skin and supports its barrier function. Pro- and prebiotics (inulin, enzymes, extracts of bifidobacteria, etc.) restore the skin's microbiome and enhance its natural protection from external factors, including ultraviolet radiation," the doctor noted.

Earlier, on July 11, Yulia Drobysheva, a technology developer of the Krassa brand, a molecular biologist and cosmetologist, told how to protect a child from sunburn. She recommended choosing sunscreens with an SPF of at least 30, preferably 50+, for reliable protection, as they reflect up to 98% of harmful solar radiation.

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