Sun protection is not only for summer days or periods of intense sun exposure. Every day, the skin is exposed to different types of radiation that contribute to visible skin aging. Understanding them better helps support a more complete daily protection approach.

  

WHY PROTECT THE SKIN FROM ALL TYPES OF RADIATION?


UV diagram

Every day, the skin is exposed to several types of light radiation. Each one has different effects, but all can contribute to photoaging.

UVB: the rays responsible for sunburn


UVB rays mainly act on the surface of the skin and are best known for their immediate effects. They are responsible for sunburn, contribute to tanning, and also play a role in the skin’s natural vitamin D synthesis. The SPF rating on sunscreen products is also measured against UVB. SPF is calculated based on the minimum dose of UV needed to cause redness on protected skin compared with unprotected skin.

In practical terms, an SPF 30 filters about 97% of UVB rays, while an SPF 50 filters about 98%. A higher SPF therefore provides additional protection, but no sunscreen blocks 100% of UVB rays. This is also why an SPF 100 does not protect “twice as much” as an SPF 50+.

It is also worth remembering that a higher SPF can, in theory, extend protection time against UVB. In practice, this duration varies depending on sun intensity, skin type, the amount applied, and perspiration. Even with high protection, generous application and regular reapplication remain essential.


SPF diagram

UVA: the rays linked to skin aging


UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin than UVB rays and act more silently, without necessarily causing any immediate visible signs. Yet they play a major role in photoaging. Over time, they contribute to the appearance of wrinkles, skin sagging, loss of firmness, and pigment irregularities such as dark spots.

Unlike UVB, UVA rays are present fairly consistently throughout the year, even when the sun seems less intense. They also pass more easily through clouds and windows, which explains why the skin is exposed to them every day, including in the city or during indoor activities near a window.

That is why, when it comes to sun protection, SPF alone is not enough. It only indicates protection against UVB and does not, on its own, reflect the level of protection against UVA. In an anti-aging approach, UVA protection is essential, as these rays are the ones that most significantly accelerate visible signs of skin aging over time.

Blue light and infrared: often overlooked aggressors


| Blue light

The skin is also exposed to blue light (HEV), which is part of visible light. Less well known than UV rays, it is now drawing growing interest for its role in oxidative stress, photoaging, and certain pigment irregularities. It also contributes to the daily stressors the skin faces.

| Infrared

Infrared rays are mostly associated with heat, but they are not neutral for the skin. They also contribute to oxidative stress and, together with other types of radiation, can play a role in premature skin aging. Although they are less often highlighted, they are part of the daily exposure to consider in a more global protection approach.

Our daily sun protection skincare


SUNLIGHT SCREEN 50+, the first protective skincare product with SPF 50+ combining a vitamin D booster and anti-aging actives, helps protect the skin from UVA, UVB, blue light, and infrared rays, while helping prevent visible signs of photoaging. Its fluid texture makes it easy to incorporate into your morning routine every day.


Sun protection skincare

The right habits to protect your skin properly


For sun protection to be effective, it should be applied every morning and in a sufficient amount (4 to 8 pumps for SUNLIGHT SCREEN 50+). In the case of prolonged exposure, it is recommended to reapply regularly, especially after sweating, swimming, or towel-drying the face. Sunscreen should also be used alongside other good habits: avoiding exposure during the most intense hours, wearing sunglasses and a hat, or seeking shade whenever possible.

Sun protection is not just about preventing sunburn


Protecting your skin from the sun is not just about avoiding redness. It is also about helping preserve its quality, radiance, and even appearance over time. Daily photoprotection helps limit the effects of oxidative stress, prevent visible signs of aging, and better protect the skin from external aggressors.

  

Sun protection: why should you protect your skin from all types of radiation?

Sun protection: why should you protect your skin from all types of radiation?

UVA, UVB, blue light, and infrared: every day, the skin is exposed to several types of radiation that contribute to photoaging. Discover why daily sun
En lire plus
Post-procedure skincare: how to soothe, repair, and protect the skin?

Post-procedure skincare: how to soothe, repair, and protect the skin?

Discover which post-procedure routine to follow to help the skin repair itself, regain comfort, maintain hydration, and stay protected every day.
En lire plus
Dark spots: restoring an even complexion

Dark spots: restoring an even complexion

Understand the causes of dark spots and discover the right steps to help restore a more even complexion.
En lire plus
Eye contour: preserving the youthfulness of the eyes

Eye contour: preserving the youthfulness of the eyes

Find out why the eye contour area needs special attention, and how best to care for it.
En lire plus