Neutrogena^®

What does SPF (sun protection factor) measure?
SPF is a measurement of how long you can stay in the sun with sunscreen before getting burned. If you apply a sunscreen with an SPF of 30, for example, that means it will take approximately 30 times longer for your skin to begin to burn than if you did not wear any sunscreen protection at all. With this in mind, sunscreens should still not be used to increase the time you spend in intense sunlight. Because SPF mainly measures protection against UVB rays, be sure your sunscreen protects against UVA rays as well by choosing products with ingredients that provide both UVA and UVB protection. These are usually labelled "broad spectrum," and are available as body and face sunscreens.

What is Sun Damage (photodamage)?
Sun damage (also known as photodamage) of the skin can either be acute like sunburn, or chronic like the gradual changes of the skin caused by an accumulation of sun exposure throughout your life. Chronic photodamage results in either a cosmetic change in the skin's appearance, such as fine and coarse wrinkles, or changes that are of medical or health concerns. The sun can also change skin through freckles, discoloured areas of the skin, sallowness and more. There's very strong evidence that ultraviolet light is the cause of most of the changes associated with the premature signs of aging skin.
Hyperpigmentation is caused by an increase in melanin, the substance in the body that is responsible for colour (pigment). Exposure to sunlight is a major cause of hyperpigmentation, and will darken already hyperpigmented areas.

What's the Difference Between UVA & UVB Rays?
There are two types of UV rays-UVA and UVB-both of which can harm your skin. UVA rays penetrate deep into the layers of the skin and lead to premature signs of aging, which include fine lines and wrinkles. UVB rays are the primary cause of sunburn, because they penetrate the outer layer of skin and cause damage to skin cells.
Too much exposure from either UVA or UVB rays can play a part in causing skin cancer. It's important to use sunscreen, protective clothing and sunglasses year-round, because the amount of UVA stays fairly constant throughout the year, and also exceeds the amount of UVB rays in both summer and winter. Even on a cloudy day, 80% of the sun's UVA rays pass through clouds. What's more, when it comes to tanning beds, it's important to know that tanning beds work by emitting UVA rays, which penetrate deep into the skin.

What can you do to protect against UVA and UVB rays?
Wear sunscreen every day to protect your skin (both face and body) from the harmful effects of the sun. Apply generous amounts of sunscreen, especially when you are active outdoors. Reapply often after swimming, perspiring, or using a towel and always choose a sunscreen that offers an SPF (sun protection factor) of 30+.
If you plan to be in the sun for an extended amount of time, look for sunscreens that offer long-lasting, broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection.

What is 'photostability'?
Helioplex® technology effectively absorbs hazardous UV rays, providing "photostable" durable protection - meaning it won't break down or lose its ability to protect the skin quickly, even when exposed to sunlight. The Ultra Sheer® products with Helioplex® technology provide long-lasting, stable protection from the harmful effects of UV rays.

Always read the label. Use only as directed.