Many people use facial moisturizers with sun protection factor (SPF) as a quick everyday solution.
These products are often applied in the morning as part of a regular skincare routine.
However, researchers say this is not the same as using regular sunscreen.
Senior researcher Ellen Bruzell from the Nordic Institute of Dental Materials in Norway told forskning.no that people typically apply too little day cream to achieve the level of protection stated on the packaging.
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Used differently
Researcher Berit Granum from the Norwegian Institute of Public Health believes the products serve different purposes.
Sunscreen is normally applied several times throughout the day, while face cream is often used only once.
This means the UV protection quickly becomes too weak. According to the researchers, products containing SPF must be reapplied several times to work properly.
The researchers also point out that day creams do not always protect against both UVA and UVB rays.
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Risk of false security
Ellen Bruzell emphasizes that some consumers may believe they are well protected throughout the day, even when that is not the case.
The researchers conclude that day creams with SPF should not replace regular sunscreen during extended periods in the sun.
She explains that regular sunscreens in Europe must meet stricter requirements than day creams containing SPF.
At the same time, the researchers recommend fragrance-free sunscreens, especially for children, because fragrances can cause skin irritation and allergies.
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Sources: Forskning.no.
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