Although summers in Hong Kong typically offer more rainy days than sun, it’s still important to make sure that you are protected from those nasty UVA (aging rays) and UVB (sunburn rays). FashionGeek dispels three common misconceptions about sunscreen:

1. The higher the SPF level the better the protection
A sunscreen’s SPF, or sun protection factor, measures how much the product shields the sun’s UVB radiation, which causes sunburn. According to the New York Times, the difference in UVB protection between an SPF 100 and SPF 50 is marginal. You don’t get that much more coverage if you double the SPF number. SPF 100 blocks 99 percent of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks 98 percent and SPF 30 holds off 96.7 percent.

2. A dollop of sun protection will last me the day
Rather than worrying over the SPF number factor, focus on how much you put on. To get the SPF advertised, you must use an ounce on your body. Putting it in perspective, that’s one full shot glass of sun protection. You also need to regularly reapply sun protection, ideally once every two hours.

3. Sunblocks and sunscreens are the same thing
Sunblock and sunscreen work in different ways. Sunscreen is a chemical block while sunblock is physical. What’s the difference? Sunscreens absorb the UV radiation and works by reducing the amount of radiation that penetrates the skin. Sunblocks physically block UV radiation and tends to be thicker, whiter and more greasy. So when to use which? Sunscreens are ideal for daily usage while sunblocks are recommended for the beach, watersports and intense outdoor activities

With a plethora of sun protection goodies out there, which should you choose? Here are a few of our favourites:

Daily usage:

Guerlain Perfect White C Brightening Daily Emulsion SPF15. The light liquid formula makes for easy application without leaving a greasy sensation. Available at Guerlain counters and www.yesstyle.com


Lancome Blanc Expert UV Expert Yeux Neuroshield SPF 30 PA++. With whitening ingredients built in, this product protects the thin skin around the eye zone to prevent premature ageing. Available at Lancome stores and www.yesstyle.com

Intense outdoor activities:

Bioderma Photoderm MAX Cream SPF100. ShoeGeek swears by this product saying that it applies smoothly and after multiple instances of reappication, the skin still doesn’t feel blocked and greasy. Available at Mannings.

Shiseido Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA+++. One of the first high SPF factor sunscreens out in the market, Anessa products might be a bit on the greasy side if you already sport oily skin but for combination and dry skin, this sunscreen is a gem. Available at Sa Sa and www.yesstyle.com