Recently I was asked if layering products that contained different levels of SPF would protect the skin better from sun damage.

My answer was “No”.

A lot of people tend to think that if they put on a product, such as a moisturizer, that contains an SPF15 and then they apply another product, such as makeup foundation, that contains SPF10, that their skin is being protected now with a total of SPF25.  This is not true.  You’re skin is only protected up to the extent of the highest rating of one product.  In this case, it would be an SPF15.  Believing a misconception like this not only gives you a false sense of security, but it opens the door for a lot of sun damage to occur and increases your risk of skin cancer.

Your best bet: wear a daily broad spectrum SPF30 that also contains antioxidants which help to protect the skin from free radical damage.

Enjoy your summer safely!

I