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The ABC of sun protection

By 02/06/2025September 8th, 2026No Comments7 min read

Summer in Estonia may seem short, but sun protection and skin health does not ask for temperature. Sunscreen is not just a luxury for beach days, but a daily habit that keeps the skin youthful and protects health.

Why is sun protection important?

The sun emits ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which is divided into three types:

  • UVA – penetrates deep into the skin, causing aging and potentially leading to skin cancer.

  • UVB causes sunburn and directly damages DNA.

  • UVC It cannot reach the ground because the atmosphere absorbs it.

Regular UV exposure can lead to:

  • photo-aging (wrinkles, pigment spots),

  • weakening of the skin immune system,

  • Increased risk of skin cancer, including melanoma.

? Science fact: The World Health Organization (WHO) has named UV radiation as one of the most important preventable carcinogens.

What does SPF really mean?

SPF or Sun Protection Factor shows How well sunscreen protects you from sunburncaused by UVB radiation (Need cause redness and burning sensations).

A simple example:

When your skin is usually burning in the sun 10 minutesSPF 30 means that you can theoretically stay in the sun for longer than with SPF 15. 30 × 10 = 300 minutes (or 5 hours) before combustion occurs: Assuming you have applied the cream correctly and in sufficient quantity.

But it is laboratory condition in real life:

  • sweating,

  • wipe your face,

  • forget to smear it again.

  • Therefore, it is not worth thinking that if you put on SPF 100, you are “bulletproof”. The most important thing is proper use and repeated application.

Sun Protection and Skin Health: How to Choose the Right Sunscreen?

The world of sunscreens can seem complicated, but in reality, a few simple basics are all you need.

1. SPF – Choose the right one for your skin and weather

  • SPF 30 – Blocks about 97% of UVB rays.

  • SPF 50 – Blocks about 98%.

? A simple reminder: For daily protection, choose at least SPF 30. For beach days and sports, choose SPF 50.

2. Select “wide spectrum” protection

A good sunscreen should protect you this way:

  • UVA rays (causing wrinkles and ageing),

  • if UVB rays (causing burns and skin cancer).

Find a label on the package ‘wide spectrum’ or ‘broad spectrum’ This means that the product protects against both.

3. Physical or chemical sunscreen – what’s the difference?

  • Physical protection (mineral):
    Acts like a mirror – reflects UV rays back off the skin. Contains substances like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
    ✅ Suitable for sensitive skin, children, and after procedures, but often leaves an initial ‘layer’ on the skin.

  • Chemical protection:
    Absorbs UV rays and converts them into heat. Typically a lighter formula that works well under makeup.
    . Good for oily or acne-prone skin.

? If you have sensitive or allergic skin, prefer physical protectionIf you want a lightweight and invisible moisturizer (such as one that works under makeup), this is a good choice. chemical.

4. Which texture do you prefer?

There are many different forms of sunscreen – find what you do. You actually use it every day.:

  • Cream – good for drier skin.

  • Gel – suitable for oily skin.

  • Spray spray cream It’s comfortable, but it needs proper application.

  • Sunscreen tinted Two-in-one: light make-up stand and protection.

5. Don’t forget the added value of ageing.

Many sunscreens also include:

  • moisturizers,

  • antioxidants (e.g. vitamin E),

  • malaise effect on oily skin.

If you already use a day cream or foundation, choose products that are specifically designed for this purpose. sunscreen is on – but make sure the SPF is adequate (not just SPF 10 or 15) and remember that we never use makeup in the amount needed for sun protection.

How to use sunscreen effectively?

  1. The quantity counts: Most people use too little. The face and neck need about a teaspoon (about 2 ml). Another good way to remember is to apply it to the ears, lip line, neck, feet, and scalp (especially for men or if the hair is thin or tied up). long stripe of cream on index finger and middle finger (enough for the face).

  2. Wearing before sun exposure: 15–30 minutes before going outside.

  3. Recovery every 2 hours and After swimming or sweating Waterproof creams don’t last forever.

  4. Don’t forget the regions: In Estonia, you can check this via the weather service – an index of 3 already requires protection.

Is cream alone enough?

The best protection is combined with:

  • Clothes: UV-protected clothes, wide hats, sunglasses.

  • Shadow use: Avoid the midday sun (at 11-15 hours).

  • UV index monitoring: In a controlled study conducted in Australia, 900 people were followed for four years. Participants were divided into two groups: one used

Science-based view: the link between sun protection and skin health

1. Daily SPF slows skin ageing

In Australia, a controlled study followed 900 people for four years. Participants were divided into two groups: one used Sunscreen (SPF 15+) every day, second only if necessary.

Result: skin protected daily ages visibly less – including less wrinkles, thin lines and skin loosening. The study showed that: Use of sun protection is not only important for cancer prevention but is also an effective anti-aging measure. Survey reference

2. UV radiation is the main cause of visible ageing

A second study in France and Japan examined the facial skin of 298 women. It was found that Up to 80% of visible skin aging is caused by sun exposure Not just genetics or age.

The study showed a clear link between UV radiation and:

  • pigment spots

  • uneven complexion

  • between skin loosening

People who avoided the sun and consistently used sunscreen maintained smoother and more youthful skin.

Aesthetic Medicine and Sun Protection: The Secret to Maintaining Youthful Skin

Today, many people invest in aesthetic medicine – whether it be chemical peels, microneedling, laser treatments, or dermal fillers. However All these procedures lose some of their impact, if UV radiation damages the skin.

After, for example:

  • chemical peeling or laser treatment the skin is particularly sensitive – even minimal sun exposure can cause pigment changes and inflammation.

  • filler injection affect collagen levels, which break down faster due to UV exposure.

  • use of retinol It makes the skin thinner and more sensitive to light.

? The fact: Strong sun protection (SPF 50+) is mostly recommended at least 2 weeks after procedures, but ideally it should become a daily habit even otherwise.

Sunscreen is not just a protection – it is investment in the long-term performance of proceduresIf you’re already making an effort to make your skin look fresh and youthful, don’t let UV radiation nullify that effort.

Sunscreen is not an option, it is a habit.

Sun protection is one of the simplest ways to prevent premature skin aging and reduce the risk of skin cancer. Whether you’re at the beach, in the city, or even driving in the car – UV rays will always affect you. Get into the habit of applying cream every morning, choose the right products, and be consistent. Your skin will thank you!

Start today: Your skin won’t forget.

Every day you skip sun protection, your skin accumulates damage that you may not see immediately – but it will appear over the years. The right and consistent protection is The easiest and cheapest anti-aging stepwhat you can offer your skin.

Wondering which sunscreen suits your skin type or is suitable for the period after aesthetic procedures?

Book a consultation or ask our specialists – we’ll help you choose products that fit your lifestyle and needs. Contact us here

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