SPF50: For which skin type?

Products with an SPF50 are particularly suitable for very fair to fair skin, that is, for people of phototype I and II. These categories of individuals are very sensitive to UV rays. Indeed, their skin produces very little melanin, the pigment responsible for tanning, so it tans with difficulty but reacts very quickly and harshly when exposed to the sun, even for a very short time. However, tanning is an essential defence mechanism to protect the skin from UV rays. The application of a sunscreen with a minimum SPF50 is therefore recommended, as it provides a high level of sun protection and thus helps to prevent sunburn. Of course, it is necessary to apply the adequate amount and to do so regularly to ensure effective sun protection.

Indeed, SPF50 prevents sunburn, thus protecting us from UVB rays, but it does not, however, protect the skin from UVA rays. For a long time, it was believed that only UVB rays were responsible for the development of cancers, as they cause sunburn. However, UVA rays, associated with skin ageing, cause deep damage and are also involved in the onset of skin cancers. To date, no sunscreen can guarantee total protection against UVA and UVB rays. However, several sunscreen products contain ingredients that filter or reflect UVA and UVB rays such as zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, uvinul A Plus, Tinosorb S, etc... Moreover, it is recommended to limit the duration of sun exposure and to resort to other means of protection (the cap, clothing, sunglasses, shade, etc...).