Sun Safety Chat with Alyse Russo
At L.U.V., we believe knowledge is power. Today, we sat down for a Sun Safety Chat with Alyse Russo, MPAS, PA-C. Alyse is a board-certified Physician Assistant who has been practicing in Dermatology and Mohs surgery for 10 years. Additionally, she is the mom of two little girls, so she can appreciate the challenges, yet extreme importance, of sun protection at all stages of life.
Alyse Russo, MPAS, PA-C
Q&A with Alyse
When it comes to SPF and UPF, what are the key differences?
When discussing the differences between SPF and UPF, I think it is important to define what each is. SPF is the “Sun Protection Factor” and is the standard used to measure sunscreens whereas UPF is the “Ultraviolet Protection Factor” and is used when referring to fabrics and clothing. When used synergistically we can give ourselves maximum protection while in the sun.
Some of the key differences include ease of application. Applying a lotion to your entire body every two hours may seem unrealistic for some; whereas putting on a shirt is a minimal task. SPF also has its limitations. Studies show us that most patients do not apply a thick enough layer of sunscreen, lowering the SPF rating and SPF washes off in water and with sweat.
Why is it important to utilize both SPF and UPF to ensure your sun safety?
The use of both SPF and UPF can give us an added layer of safety from harmful UV rays. Sometimes we may get caught unexpectedly without sunscreen and the UPF can give us a layer of protection. Also, we are all familiar with the dreaded “I missed a spot” of sunscreen moment and by layering SPF with UPF we can decrease the odds of these sunburnt areas.
Should you incorporate SPF into your skincare routine every day?
Yes! According to the AAD, everyone should be wearing a 30 SPF daily and reapply as needed every two hours.
Do you have any tips or products you love for reapplying sunscreen if you are wearing makeup?
Colorescience Brush-On Sunscreen Mineral Powder and (Re)setting 100% Mineral Powder are great options for keeping your makeup looking fresh and keeping your skin safe.
What are the benefits of UPF?
UPF can be effortlessly incorporated into a daily wardrobe to provide an extra layer of protection from the sun; and help to prevent chronic daily exposure that can have a cumulative effect later in life.
What should you look for when it comes to finding the best SPF and UPF protection for your skin?
It is recommended to use water-resistant, broad-spectrum protection (protection against UVA and UVB rays) SPF of 30 or higher. When it comes to UPF clothing, it is important to look for the UPF value. UPF 40-50+ is considered excellent as 97.5-98% UV radiation is blocked.
What are your favorite SPF products? Do you have specific brands that you prefer?
Some of my personal favorite SPF products include CeraVe 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 InvisibleZinc, La Roche-Posay Anthelios Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50 and EltaMD.
Is there anything else the audience should know? Feel free to add your own questions or insights you would like to share!
It is important to not only sun protect on sunny summer days but we need to remember our skin all year round as snow, sand and water increase everyone’s need for sun protection.