In choosing a sunblock, most people think that picking one with the highest sun protection factor (SPF) is the best.
"Usually the SPF we recommend is not lower than (SPF) 15. The higher you go, it doesn’t really mean na pantay 'yun sa proteksyon mo. SPF 15 gives you around 93%, and sa mga studies 50% gives you 95% protection, 2% lang ang itinataas," explained Dr. Cynthia Tan, a dermatologist in an interview on DZMM's "Magandang Gabi Dok".
Most products available in the market have SPF that ranges from 15 to 50.
Aside from choosing the right SPF, one should also choose a product that is right for the skin type.
Tan said a sunblock lotion is perfect for use all over the body. However, a sunblock gel is better for those with oily skin, especially if they want to use the product on their face, while those with dry skin should opt for sunblock creams.
To maximize the effect of sunblock, it should be reapplied every two to two-and-a-half hours, especially when swimming.
Physical, chemical blocks
Tan also explained that different sunblock products can either function as a physical block, or as a chemical block.
"Ang sunblocks kasi pwedeng chemical block siya. Ang chemical block, they use the chemicals. Ang chemicals ang naga-absorb nung rays. Ang physical kasi, parang tinakpan mo siya ng opaque material para mag-reflect na lang 'yung light, hindi siya maabsorb," she added.
Sunblocks with zinc oxide and titanium oxides function as physical blocks.
For Tan, sunblocks that function as physical blocks are better than chemical blocks, since some chemicals cause allergies.
source: www.abs-cbnnews.com
