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So just how does SPF work?

Well Sun Protection Factor is quite the wonderful invention. It keeps our skins youthful and healthy glow, while preventing UVA (Ultraviolet A, which penetrates deep into the skin) from aging our skin and UVB (which penetrates the upper/epidermis layer of skin) from burning us. If you burn in the sun after about 20 minutes, theoretically, by using a SPF 15, your skin will last 15 times longer before getting that nasty pink burn – so you’ll have around five hours of protection. However, dermatologists recommended using at least factor 30 when we head out into the sun as this gives us 97 percent protection and it’s well worth it. Even though the sun is a fantastic source of vitamin D, we tend to spend lengthy periods of time outside and so SPF is essential. Various elements come in to play when choosing a sunscreen. For example, those with sensitive skin should opt for mineral formulas containing zinc oxide (this is also the only ingredient that fully blocks harmful UVA rays) or titanium dioxide. These are also less harmful to the environment compared to carbon based sunscreens. Although we’re still in the summer holiday spirit, it’s super important to note that really, we should be wearing our sunscreen every day, protecting ourselves even when it’s cloudy! So, keep emanating that healthy glow and why not take this speedy quiz to find the perfect protection for you! Brought to you by Boots. Boots Holiday Shop, from suncare to travel essentials your summer shop starts here.