SPF (sun protection)
Also known as: sun protection factor, sunscreen
Sun Protection Factor — the figure showing how many times better protected your skin is against UVB radiation with sunscreen on.
SPF, or sun protection factor, shows how much longer UVB radiation takes to burn skin wearing sunscreen compared with unprotected skin. SPF 30 means roughly 30 times longer protection compared with bare skin. At Estonian beauty salons and cosmetologists', SPF is considered the single most important anti-ageing product — UV radiation is the number one cause of skin ageing, and without SPF every other retinol, peel or serum loses half its effect.
How does SPF work?
Sunscreens use two types of filter: chemical ones (e.g. avobenzone, octocrylene, octinoxate) absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat, while mineral/physical ones (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) reflect the radiation back. Quality products combine both and, alongside UVB, also provide UVA protection (marked as PA+++ on Estonian products).
For everyday use in Estonia, SPF 30 is enough; in summer and on sun-drenched trips, use SPF 50. The amount applied is critical — a palmful (about 1/4 teaspoon) for the face and neck. Reapply every 2 hours in the sun, especially after swimming or sweating. Combining it with a morning vitamin C serum gives stronger antioxidant protection.
SPF in Estonia
Estonian beauty salons, pharmacies and cosmetics shops carry a wide range of SPF products priced at €8–60 per pack. Pharmacy products (La Roche-Posay, Avene, Heliocare, Bioderma) have proven quality; high-end salon brands (SkinCeuticals, Mesoestetic, Innoaesthetics) cost €35–80. Choose an SPF in packaging that keeps it fresher for longer; mineral-filter products (zinc oxide) are especially suitable after rosacea, acne and medical procedures.
Frequently asked questions
What is SPF?
SPF, or sun protection factor, shows how much longer UVB radiation takes to burn skin wearing sunscreen compared with unprotected skin. For everyday use in Estonia, SPF 30 is recommended, and SPF 50 in summer.
Is SPF safe in Estonia?
Yes, quality sunscreens are safe for all skin types. For sensitive skin, choose a mineral filter (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) — it does not penetrate the skin and does not cause a chemical allergy.
Where can I learn more about SPF?
Consult a cosmetologist or pharmacist at an Estonian beauty salon, who will assess your skin type and recommend a suitable filter type. SPF is the foundation of every routine — without it, retinol and peels only keep adding sun damage.
Related pages
This service in Estonia
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