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The abbreviation SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is an indicator of the degree of skin protection against sunburn caused by ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. These rays cause redness, damage the surface layers of the skin, and provoke inflammation after prolonged exposure to the sun.
SPF indicates how much longer you can stay in the sun with a sunscreen compared to your skin without it. For example, if without cream, redness begins after 10 minutes, then with SPF 30 this time increases 30 times – up to 300 minutes, provided it is applied correctly and with enough product.
It is important to remember that even the highest SPF does not block 100% of the sun's rays. A product with SPF 15 neutralizes about 93% of UVB radiation, with SPF 30 – about 97%, and with SPF 50 – up to 98%. However, protection depends not only on the number on the packaging, but also on the frequency of reapplying the product, its texture, and formula.
Daily use of SPF products is the best prevention of photoaging, hyperpigmentation, and skin cancer. Even on cloudy days, up to 80% of ultraviolet radiation penetrates through clouds, so protection is required year-round. This is especially important for facial skin, which is exposed to the sun every day.
What is SPF and PPD
If SPF protects us from burns caused by ultraviolet rays type B (UVB), then PPD (Persistent Pigment Darkening) is an indicator of protection from ultraviolet rays type A (UVA). It is UVA rays that penetrate deeper into the skin, destroying collagen and elastin fibers, causing premature aging and contributing to hyperpigmentation.
The formula is simple: SPF = protection against redness, PPD = protection against photoaging and age spots. Both types of rays are harmful: UVB acts quickly and noticeably, and UVA is insidious, its effect appears over time, but it can cause no less serious damage, including DNA damage and the development of skin cancer.
High-quality sunscreens must contain Broad-spectrum UVA/UVB filters. In Europe and a number of other countries, the packaging of such products is marked "UVA in a circle", confirming that the level of UVA protection is at least a third of the SPF.
The Bronzeada Librederm line uses modern photostable filters of the new generation, which provide reliable protection from both UVA and UVB rays, preventing the appearance of age spots, wrinkles and flaccid skin, as well as minimizing the risk of sunburn.
Types The sun emits several types of ultraviolet rays, but human skin is primarily affected by two - UVA and UVB. Understanding their differences helps you choose sunscreen wisely.
UVA rays are the "silent destroyers." They make up about 95% of all UV rays reaching the Earth's surface. Penetrating deep into the dermis, they destroy collagen and elastin, leading to photoaging, decreased elasticity, and the appearance of wrinkles. UVA radiation also triggers hyperpigmentation and can be one of the causes of skin cancer. These rays are active throughout the day and penetrate even clouds and window glass.
UVB rays are what cause sunburn. They affect the more superficial layers of the skin, damaging cellular DNA and causing redness and inflammation. UVB exposure is most pronounced in summer and during the day, especially between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. UVC rays barely reach the Earth's surface because they are trapped in the upper atmosphere. However, they are actively used in medical and technical equipment for disinfection, so caution is also required during household contact.
Types of Filters
Sunscreen filters are active components in SPF products that protect the skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation. All of them are divided into two types: chemical (organic) and physical (mineral). Each of them works in its own way and has its own characteristics.
Physical (mineral) filters create a thin protective film on the surface of the skin that reflects and scatters ultraviolet radiation, like a mirror. These include titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. These filters work immediately after application and cause virtually no irritation, making them ideal for sensitive skin and children. Cons: they can leave a white cast and feel heavy on the skin.
Chemical (organic) filters are absorbed into the upper layers of the skin and neutralize UV rays, converting them into thermal energy. Filters such as avobenzone, octocrylene, or oxybenzone allow you to create light and comfortable textures that are not felt on the skin. However, they take about 15-30 minutes after application to start working and are more likely to cause irritation in sensitive skin.
Modern formulas often use a combination of these two types of filters to provide broad spectrum protection (UVA and UVB) and maximum comfort during use. This is the approach used in Bronzeada Librederm products.
For example, Bronzeada Anti-Age Spot Cream SPF 50 contains the latest generation filters that reliably protect the skin from UVA/UVB radiation. Its formula is enriched with vitamin E and softening argan and jojoba oils, which provide not only protection but also comprehensive care. Thanks to its light, invisible texture, the cream is ideal for daily use in the city and on vacation.
What are the different SPF levels?
SPF is not just a number on the tube, but an indicator of how effectively the product protects the skin from sunburn caused by UVB rays. The higher the SPF value, the longer the skin will be protected from redness and inflammation, provided it is applied correctly.
There are several levels of protection:
SPF 15–20 — low protection, suitable for short walks or cloudy days.
SPF 30–35 — medium protection, optimal for everyday urban use.
SPF 50 and higher — high protection, recommended for active sun, in the mountains, on the beach, or for skin prone to hyperpigmentation and photoaging.
It is important to remember: the difference between SPF 30 and SPF 50 is not a multiple. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, and SPF 50 — up to 98%. But even 1% can make a difference with prolonged sun exposure.
Particular attention should be paid to people with sensitive skin prone to age spots. Dermatologists often recommend using products with maximum protection SPF 50 to minimize the risk of photodamage and prevent premature skin aging.
The Bronzeada line from Librederm features Anti-Age Spot Cream SPF 50, specially formulated for effective protection and care. It combines UVA/UVB filters, antioxidant protection with vitamin E, and nourishing oils. The cream not only helps prevent the appearance of new age spots but also maintains skin comfort even after prolonged sun exposure.
How to use sunscreens correctly?
Even the most powerful sunscreen with a high SPF will not work effectively if used incorrectly. Failure to follow these simple guidelines can reduce protection to zero and lead to photodamage, irritation, and premature aging of the skin.
For the product to truly perform its function, it should be applied 15–20 minutes before sun exposure. This time is necessary for the filters to activate and form a stable protective layer on the skin's surface. It is especially important to distribute the product evenly over all exposed areas: face, neck, décolleté, and hands.
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The application rate is about 2 mg per 1 cm² of skin, which is equivalent to about half a teaspoon per face. Many people use much less, reducing the level of protection several times.
Remember to renew the product every 2-3 hours, especially after swimming, intense sweating, or drying with a towel. Even waterproof formulas need to be reapplied to maintain maximum effectiveness.
Cosmetologists advise using sunscreen daily, even in cloudy weather and in winter. Ultraviolet radiation, especially UVA rays, penetrates clouds and glass, affecting the skin all year round. This is especially true for people with sensitive skin and a tendency toward pigmentation.
In this context, Librederm's Bronzeada SPF 50 Anti-Pigment Spot Cream becomes an indispensable product: it combines powerful photoprotection and care, is easy to apply, and leaves no white marks. Use it daily—and your skin will thank you.