Did you know your daily SPF is the most important step in your entire skincare routine? Not only does it provide defense against skin cancer, but it also targets premature aging. SPF is not just for summer, though. Here's what you really need to know.

Know Your Rays

Did you know that there are different types of UV rays that contribute to skin damage and cancer?

• UVA (The Aging Rays): These penetrate deeply into skin and contribute up to 85% of visible skin aging like wrinkles and dark spots.
• UVB (The Burning Rays): These penetrate the outer layers of the skin and contribute to skin damage and cause sunburns.

Both are harmful and finding an SPF that protects against both is critical.

Broad Spectrum Protection

SPF specifically refers to protection from UVB rays, not UVA. To protect your skin from both types of rays, you'll need to choose an SPF that is also labeled Broad Spectrum. It's the ultimate way to preserve the skincare results you've worked so hard for and shield your skin.

One of our favorites, Dr. Loretta Universal Glow Daily Defense Mineral Sunscreen Fluid SPF 40, is a lightweight moisturizer + full spectrum SPF duo, perfect for those hot summer days.

Importance of SPF Indoors

Think you're only exposed to UV damage when you're outside? Since UVA rays can penetrate glass, your skin is still vulnerable even when you're indoors. Make SPF a part of your daily skincare ritual, no matter where your day takes you.

What your SPF Rating Really Means

The number on your SPF isn't about how long you're protected—it's about the percentage of UVB rays it blocks.

• SPF 15 blocks up to 93% of UVB rays
• SPF 30 blocks up to 97% of UVB rays
• SPF 50 blocks up to 98% of UVB rays

No single SPF blocks 100% of UV rays and the difference between 30 and 50 is minimal. Find one you love and apply it every day. Consistency beats a higher number, every time.

Your Guide to Picking and Applying

The best sunscreen for you is the one you'll actually wear. Here's how to make it a habit:

• Choose Wisely: Pick a Broad Spectrum SPF with a minimum of SPF 30 for your daily routine. Going to be in direct sun? Grab SPF 50 for stronger protection against UVB rays.
• Don't Be Shy: Make sure you're using enough sunscreen. For your face, neck, and chest, aim for roughly the length of two full fingers. For your body, think two tablespoons.
• Reapply, Reapply, Reapply: When you're sweating, swimming, or toweling off, you're wiping away your protection. Make sure you reapply every two hours to stay safe. 

Your Heyday SPF Glossary

• SPF: Sun Protection Factor. The measure of how well a sunscreen protects against UVB (burning) rays.
• Mineral SPF: A physical sunscreen that uses minerals like zinc oxide to sit on top of the skin and reflect UV rays.
• Chemical SPF: A sunscreen that works by absorbing UV rays and turning them into heat.
• Broad Spectrum: Your shield against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays.
• Reef-Safe: Sunscreen that skips the ingredients (like oxybenzone and octinoxate) that are known to harm coral reefs.
• Full Spectrum: In addition to protecting against UVA and UVB rays, full spectrum protection also provides defense against two more forms of light: visible light and infrared-A.

By making SPF a daily habit, you're not just protecting your skin—you're investing in your long-term radiance.