MEDIK8 SUN PROTECTION / SPF

Sun protection specialists

The assessment

Each sunscreen has an SPF rating that corresponds to their level of protection against UVB rays. But SPF isn't the only rating. 'Broad spectrum' and the star system also allow you to measure the level of protection against UVA rays. A 'broad spectrum' rating indicates that UVA protection is at least one-third of UVB protection. The star system indicates different ratios of UVA to UVB protection. All Medik8 sun protection products are at least broad spectrum, with the advanced range of day creams all achieving the highest 5* rating of Ultra UVA protection.

Chemical vs. physical

There are two main types of sun protection: physical and chemical. The main difference between physical sunscreens and chemical sunscreens is their mechanism of action. Chemical sunscreens penetrate the skin and absorb UV rays, converting them into heat energy. Physical sunscreens generally sit on the skin; they reflect the UV rays like a mirror.

Physical sun protectors

In the past, the image of physical sunscreens has been tarnished with them being opaque, sticky and generally uncomfortable to wear. That was until the revolutionary Physical Sunscreen formula from Medik8. It contains a proven blend of mineral filters, titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, and the incredibly lightweight formula provides exceptional broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection against photodamage. Nanoparticles are often used in competitor sunscreen products to provide a sheer, lightweight formula, but many find them controversial for safety reasons. Medik8 Physical Sunscreen does not use nanoparticles, yet still manages to achieve a desirable, lightweight, non-sticky formula that blends with the skin when massaged.

Chemical sun protection

Daily chemical sunscreen formulas often use cheaper UV filters that are unstable. There are many types of chemical filters. Some have concerns about their safety and some may even affect fertility. The good news: Medik8 does not use these controversial ingredients in our formulations and instead uses a range of well-trusted and safe filters that we believe are the future of sun protectors. There is no escaping the fact that the filters we use are more expensive to incorporate and more difficult to formulate, but the results are clearly visible, even in the texture of the product.

We use a carefully chosen trio of chemical filters – Uvinul A Plus, Tinosorb S and Uvinul T 150. Combined at precise levels, these next generation filters provide broad spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays, with virtually none of the instability of traditional chemical filters. Exceptionally stable in the sun, completely safe and with high protection, we think we have discovered the perfect chemical formula for sun protectors. For these products we refer to our Advanced range and Daily Radiance Vitamin C™.

TOP TIPS FOR SUN PROTECTORS

1. If you are in strong sun, apply every 2 hours for optimal protection.

2. Apply at least ¼ of a teaspoon to your face, neck and décolleté.

3. Sweating, physical contact and water can all affect the amount of protection you get. Reapply regularly.

4. Replace your sunscreen every 12 months to ensure you get the freshest, most effective protection.

5. Be careful not to miss any inconspicuous areas such as the ears and the back of the neck.

6. For optimal protection, allow at least 20 minutes between applying your sun protector and before going out into the sun.