Collection: SPF Creams

Sun protection is the only cosmetic product that dermatologists agree on: used daily, it does more for the skin's appearance than any anti-wrinkle cream. UVA radiation penetrates through windows and clouds and is responsible for most changes defined as photoaging. In this category, we have nearly two hundred face filters.

Mineral or chemical filter

Mineral filters (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) work immediately upon application and are usually better tolerated by sensitive, vascular, and post-procedure skin. A disadvantage can be a white cast, although modern formulas have significantly reduced this.

Chemical filters are lighter, spread better, and do not leave a cast. Korean and Japanese filters have an advantage in this category because local regulations allow for substances unavailable in Europe.

In practice, the best filter is the one you will actually apply every day. Consistency and finish matter more than the mineral vs. chemical debate.

How much to apply and how often to reapply

The declared SPF protection is measured at 2 mg per square centimeter — for the face and neck, this is about half a teaspoon. Most people apply three to four times less, which causes the real protection to drop to a fraction of the declared value.

When exposed to the sun, the filter should be reapplied every 2–3 hours. During the day indoors, by a window, one morning application is usually enough. For reapplying over makeup, sticks, mists, and mineral powders are more convenient than creams.

What the markings on the packaging mean

• SPF — protection against UVB, i.e., sunburn. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB, SPF 50 about 98%.
• UVA in a circle — European marking for UVA protection at a level of at least one-third of the SPF value.
• PA+ to PA++++ — Asian system for evaluating UVA protection. Four pluses indicate the highest level.
• Broad Spectrum — American marking, protection against UVA and UVB.

Frequently asked questions

Is a filter necessary in winter? Yes. UVA has a constant intensity throughout the year and penetrates through clouds and windows.

Does a filter block vitamin D synthesis? In practice, daily use of sunscreen does not lead to a deficiency. Supplementation is recommended in the Polish climate anyway, regardless of the filter.

Is foundation with SPF enough? No. It is applied too thinly to achieve the declared protection. Treat it as an addition, not a replacement.

See also: sun protection, discoloration, body filters, Cell Fusion C.