Olay Articles

Do you have questions about how to keep your skin safe from harmful UV rays? Chances are, others are wondering the same thing. Remember, if you don’t see your question here, you can always get a live consultation.

How does an SPF protection factor work?
A sun protection factor (SPF) is a numerical value for the amount of protection a sunscreen product provides against particular UV light. For an SPF 30, you can stay in the sun 30 times longer without burning than you would be able to if you had no sun protection at all.

Can I prevent skin cancer by using Olay Complete products?
Long-term UVA and UVB light exposure can contribute to the development of skin cancer. Daily use of sunscreen, such as Complete Defense SPF 30 or Complete All Day Lotion SPF 15, can help reduce the risk of skin cancer.

What does "broad-spectrum" UVA/UVB protection mean?
UVA and UVB are different wavelength regions of the UV part of the light spectrum. Wavelengths are expressed in units called nanometers (nm). Complete Defense SPF 30 and Complete All Day Lotion SPF 15 lotions block the majority of UVA and UVB rays within the spectrum of 290-400nm and, therefore, are labeled as having "broad-spectrum" protection.

Is there a difference in the effects of UVA and UVB rays? Are they both equally responsible for skin aging?
UVB rays are more associated with burning on the skin and cause skin thickening, age spots and may cause skin cancer. UVA rays are more associated with the aging effects of UV light and also sun sensitization. However, neither effect is exclusive, and both are believed to be responsible for premature skin aging.

If I use more than one SPF product at a time, will I be able to increase my SPF protection? (Example: Use Complete Defense SPF 30 and a makeup foundation with SPF 4.)
No. When products that have different SPF values are applied to the skin, the result is not additive. For instance, if you applied a moisturizer with an SPF of 30 and a makeup foundation with an SPF of 4, you would not get an SPF of 34. Generally, when using multiple products, you should achieve an SPF equal to the highest SPF product applied. In this case, you would expect to achieve an SPF of 30.

Is the sun so intense that I need protection when the sky is overcast or during the winter?
Even when the sky is cloudy, UV rays can still reach and affect the skin. Summer light is more intense and contains more UVB. Winter light is weaker, but still contains significant amounts of UVA and UVB.

How much should I apply to get adequate protection?
You must apply sunscreen liberally to get adequate SPF protection. We recommend applying an amount the size of a nickel. Reapply following activity causing perspiration or rubbing of skin that could potentially have removed sunscreen.

Do I need to use sun protection if I rarely or never burn?
Yes. Daily sun protection should be practiced regardless of one's skin type. The American Academy of Dermatology suggests that, regardless of skin type, broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 should be used year-round.

For more sun safety tips, please visit the Skin Cancer Foundation's website at www.skincancer.org.