Sunny scene, father carries his son on his back

Sun care

Summer, sun, SolvineaMed – reliable protection for every skin type

DERMASENCE sun protection for every skin type

Reliable protection on sunny days

Sunshine is good for you – it lifts your mood and supports important processes in the body. At the same time, UV radiation poses one of the greatest challenges to skin health.

Results from our nationally representative survey* show: Only about 52 % of people feel sufficiently informed about sun protection. Comprehensive UV protection is one of the most important measures to protect the skin from sun-related stress. Your individual skin type, the appropriate sun protection factor, and correct application are key factors.

Here you will learn why UV protection is so important, how to best protect your skin, and which products best support your needs.

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Blue sky with bright, radiant sun

Why is UV protection so important?

Understanding UV radiation

UV radiation refers to a portion of solar radiation that reaches humans directly on Earth. “UV” stands for ultraviolet and refers to a specific wavelength range of this radiation. UV-A and UV-B radiation play an important role in the health of our skin.

  • UV-A radiation is long-wave (320-400 nm) and can penetrate into deeper skin layers, including the dermis.
  • It is responsible for photoaging (light-induced skin ageing) by damaging the collagen structure. Remember: A stands for ageing, meaning skin ageing.
  • It remains relatively constant throughout the year, even on cloudy days. It can even pass through window glass. This is why year-round protection against UV-A radiation is recommended.
  • UV-B radiation is medium-wave (280-320 nm) and primarily affects the epidermis, the outer layer of the skin.
  • It triggers the skin’s natural protective mechanisms, such as thickening of the top skin layer and tanning. Another helpful reminder: B stands for burning or sunburn.
  • It causes redness (erythema).
  • It can damage cell nuclei.
  • It is responsible for the synthesis of vitamin D.

Still underestimated: the effects on the skin

While some consequences of intense sun exposure become visible quickly, others develop gradually over many years. Consistent and mindful UV protection is therefore a key element of long-term skin health.

Acute sun-induced skin damage

In the short term, excessive UV exposure can lead to visible and noticeable skin reactions. These include, among others:

  • Sunburn
  • Photodermatoses (sun allergy or Mallorca acne)
  • Acute eye damage (inflammation of the conjunctiva or the cornea)

Long-term effects of UV radiation

Repeated and intense exposure to UV radiation can cause long-term changes in the skin. These include:

  • Premature skin ageing (photoageing)
  • Pigment changes
  • Actinic keratoses
  • DNA damage
  • Increased risk of skin cancer
  • Eye diseases such as cataract

UV radiation-induced DNA damage

The most significant damage caused by UV radiation affects our DNA: UV-B rays, in particular, can directly alter DNA and are the main cause of sunburn and skin cancer. UV-A rays penetrate deeper into the skin and indirectly contribute to DNA damage through oxidative stress. During this process, free radicals form that can damage cell components – including DNA. If such damage is not sufficiently prevented, it can accumulate over time, increasing the risk of skin cancer and accelerating the natural ageing of the skin.

Comprehensive protection against all relevant components of solar radiation is therefore essential. DERMASENCE SolvineaMed sun protection products provide reliable DNA and cell protection with the DNA Shield, a combination of broad-spectrum UV-A/UV-B protection and antioxidants such as ectoin and vitamin E.

 

At a glance: Proper sun protection

Take your skin type into account

Take your skin type into account

Your skin’s sensitivity to UV radiation depends, among other factors, on your skin type

Apply a sufficient amount of sunscreen

Apply a sufficient amount of sunscreen

Only a sufficient amount of sunscreen ensures that the stated sun protection factor is actually achieved. Find out here how much sunscreen you should apply

Regular reapplication is important

Regular reapplication is important

Sunscreen must be reapplied regularly to maintain protection, especially after swimming, drying off, or heavy sweating – even when using “water-resistant” products

Clothing and accessories

Clothing and accessories

Wearing sturdy clothing, a sun hat, and sunglasses provides additional protection against UV radiation

Avoid the midday sun

Avoid the midday sun

Especially when the UV index is high, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight

Make good use of shade

Make good use of shade

Shade (for example from concrete structures) reduces UV exposure but does not offer complete protection from the sun

What role does my skin type play?

Each skin type reacts differently to sunlight. Skin type determines how quickly the skin reacts to UV radiation and how long it can remain in the sun without protection before redness develops. This process is known as natural protection time. When sunscreen products are applied correctly, they can extend the skin’s natural protection time. However, this protection time cannot be extended indefinitely: Regular reapplication of sunscreen does not further increase the extended natural protection time, but only helps to maintain it. Lighter skin types tend to be more sensitive to UV radiation than darker skin types. However, even very dark skin types are not immune to UV-related skin damage such as sunburn or skin cancer.

According to a widely used calculation, the sun protection time can be accurately determined by multiplying the Fitzpatrick skin type by the sun protection factor. For example, in a person with Fitzpatrick skin type III and a natural protection time of 15 minutes, the calculated protection time with sun protection factor 30 is 450 minutes (7.5 hours). However, this calculation is now considered outdated, as it suggests an unrealistically long duration of protection and may give a false sense of security. We therefore strongly advise against applying this calculation in everyday life.

Also important to know: UV radiation is one of the most common triggers for dermatoses and is also one of the main trigger factors for rosacea. For sensitive skin or skin prone to disease, consistent sun protection tailored to the skin type is therefore especially recommended.

What does the SPF mean?

The sun protection factor (SPF) indicates how effectively a sunscreen product protects the skin from UV radiation, specifically UV-B radiation. The SPF is determined through testing and is stated on sun protection products as a number, such as SPF 20, 30, 50 or 50+.

How much sunscreen should I use?

The stated sun protection factor can only be achieved if a sufficient amount of sunscreen is applied. As a general rule, 2 mg per cm2 of skin should be applied – this corresponds (depending on body size) to about 40 g for the entire body.

Rule of thumb for applying the correct amount:

  • 1 teaspoon for the face
  • 3-4 heaped tablespoons for the body

Our nationwide representative survey on sun protection in Germany* shows: 57 % of respondents apply less than the recommended amount to their face and therefore do not obtain full protection.

Sunscreen should be applied approximately 10 minutes before sun exposure. To maintain protection, reapply the sunscreen regularly – especially after swimming, drying off, or heavy sweating.

Product recommendations

Very high UV protection for body skin
DERMASENCE SolvineaMed Sun protection lotion SPF 50+, 200 ml
NEW
  • Sun protection / day creams

SolvineaMed Sun protection lotion SPF 50+

Light, fast-absorbing texture suitable for the whole family. Also protects sensitive skin prone to atopic dermatitis and psoriasis against sun-induced cell damage caused by UV, infrared-A, and blue light radiation. The formulation with ectoine helps protect the skin's DNA. Recommended by dermatologists, water-resistant, non-stinging, and suitable for babies from six months of age. Vegan.

Lightweight, oil-free sun cream for allergic skin
SolvineaMed Sun protection gel cream SPF 50+
NEW
  • Sun protection / day creams

SolvineaMed Sun protection gel cream SPF 50+

Light, moisturising texture with very high UVA and UVB protection. Ideal for allergic skin and particularly recommended for individuals prone to (sun) allergies and Mallorca acne. The gel cream absorbs instantly and protects against sun-induced cell damage caused by UV, infrared-A, and blue light radiation. The formulation with ectoine helps protect the skin’s DNA. Recommended by dermatologists, water-resistant, non-stinging, and suitable for babies from six months of age. Vegan.

Very high UV protection for facial skin
DERMASENCE SolvineaMed Sun protection facial fluid SPF 50+, 50 ml
NEW
  • Sun protection / day creams

SolvineaMed Sun protection facial fluid SPF 50+

The perfume-free fluid with a mattifying effect is suitable for all skin types. Contains glycerine and panthenol to provide moisturisation and a well-cared-for skin feel. Ideal as a make-up base. The formulation with ectoine helps protect the skin's DNA. The very high sun protection factor 50+ protects against sun-induced cell damage caused by UV, infrared-A, and blue light radiation. The facial fluid does not sting the eyes and is water- and sweat-resistant. Recommended by dermatologists. Vegan.

(1 Review)
Fat-free sun protection for the scalp
SolvineaMed Sun protection liquid AK SPF 50+
NEW
  • Sun protection / day creams

SolvineaMed Sun protection liquid AK SPF 50+

The ultra-light, perfume-free formulation provides scalp protection through an effective UVA and UVB filter system. The liquid protects against sun-induced cell damage and actinic keratosis caused by UV, infrared-A, and blue light radiation. Promotes skin regeneration through panthenol. The product is water- and sweat-resistant, easy to apply, non-greasy, and absorbs quickly. Ideal for athletes. Recommended by dermatologists. Vegan.

(2 Reviews)

Tested and recommended by leading dermatologists

SolvineaMed sun protection meets specific requirements for dermatologically sound sun protection and is recommended by leading dermatologists.

Very pleasant and effective to use, and practical to handle.

Prof. Dr Sven Quist

An appealing formulation with an excellent skin feel.

Dr Henner Stege

Scalp liquid: 5 stars. Facial fluid: 5 stars, prominent tube.

Dr Matthias Hoffmann

Sun protection for sensitive and allergy-prone skin

Sensitive or allergy-prone skin may react particularly strongly to UV radiation. This makes it all the more important to use a sunscreen with a high sun protection factor and a low-irritant formulation that is very well tolerated and feels pleasant on the skin. DERMASENCE SolvineaMed Sun protection gel cream SPF 50+ is suitable for sensitive and allergy-prone skin. The light, oil-free sunscreen is especially recommended for individuals prone to (sun) allergies and Mallorca acne. It is also very suitable for people with rosacea, as it protects sensitive skin from UV radiation – one of the most important trigger factors for rosacea.

For children, the following applies: The skin is particularly sensitive, and consistent UV protection is essential. This includes shade, protective clothing, headwear, and reliable sun protection. For everyday life and shared outdoor activities, DERMASENCE SolvineaMed Sun protection lotion SPF 50+ is the ideal solution for sun protection for the whole family.

Legs dangling above blue water

Are water-resistant sunscreens really water-resistant?

The term “water-resistant” can sometimes be misleading. Many people assume that water-resistant sunscreens provide complete and lasting protection, even when exposed to water. Our sun protection survey* shows that only 38 % of respondents are aware that water-resistant sun protection products are not 100 % waterproof. In fact, a sun protection product can be described as water-resistant if a standardised test procedure shows that at least 50 % of the original protection remains after 40 minutes in water.

Water-resistant UV protection with SolvineaMed

In accordance with DIN EN ISO 16217:2022-02 and the COLIPA Guidelines 2005, SolvineaMed sun protection products offer water-resistant protection that is reduced by no more than 50% after 40 minutes in water. Reapplication is important to maintain the protective effect as consistently as possible – especially after swimming, drying off, or heavy sweating.

DERMASENCE sun protection products for athletes

Whether jogging, beach volleyball or an extended round of tennis – outdoor sports often mean intense UV exposure. Sweating and physical activity place additional strain on sunscreen. DERMASENCE SolvineaMed sun protection products offer sweat-resistant sun protection with a high sun protection factor that is easy to apply and feels pleasant on the skin. 

In addition, sunscreen should be reapplied generously and regularly to all exposed areas of skin – including often overlooked areas such as the neck, ears, and scalp. This is especially important when hair is thinning, as the scalp is often strongly exposed to the sun. Sunburn on the scalp increases the risk of developing actinic keratoses, a precursor to white skin cancer. The ultra-light DERMASENCE SolvineaMed Sun protection liquid AK SPF 50+ provides effective protection.

 

In winter sports too, the risk of UV exposure is often underestimated: UV exposure is often higher in the mountains, and snow reflects UV radiation. When skiing, snowboarding or winter hiking, a facial sunscreen that feels light on the skin is therefore recommended – for example a light facial fluid such as DERMASENCE Sun protection facial fluid SPF 50+.

Sun protection on cloudy days?

Yes, it's true: UV radiation can reach the skin even on cloudy days. UV-A rays, in particular, remain almost constant throughout the year – regardless of weather or season – and can even pass through window glass. Daily UV protection is therefore recommended. However, our nationwide representative survey* on sun protection shows that only one in three people continue to use sun protection in cloudy weather. Those who spend a lot of time outdoors in their daily lives – for example, on their way to work, going for walks, or during short outdoor activities – should include a day cream with SPF in their daily routine, especially for the face. 

Discover DERMASENCE day creams with SPF

A shark swimming above a coral reef in clear blue water

DERMASENCE sun protection – Formulated to be ocean-friendly

Recent studies suggest that sunscreens may cause significant damage to coral reefs. This appears to be due to commonly used UV filters that are often found in sunscreen products. Oxybenzone (benzophenone-3) and octinoxate (ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate) protect the skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation. Unfortunately, both active ingredients are now also suspected of contributing to harmful coral bleaching, which can result in the death of entire coral reefs. In doing so, they may endanger entire ecosystems and ultimately also have an impact on climate change.

All DERMASENCE sun protection products are free from oxybenzone and octinoxate.

After-sun skincare

Refreshing care for dry skin during the summer

Even with high UV protection, sunny and warm days can put strain on the skin. They can dehydrate the skin and increase oxidative stress. With appropriate medical skincare, the effects of dry summer days and strong UV radiation can be effectively counteracted. We recommend refreshing formulations with active ingredients that deeply hydrate the skin.

Our after-sun recommendation for body and face: DERMASENCE Aloe Vera Active Gel provides intensive moisture for skin that has been particularly stressed by the sun. The high proportion of natural extracts from aloe vera leaves helps stimulate the skin’s own repair processes. The cooling effect feels particularly refreshing on application – especially when the gel is stored in the refrigerator! Leave the mask on for around 10-15 minutes before removing it with lukewarm water or a damp towel. 

Cooling mask
DERMASENCE Aloe Vera Active Gel, 75 ml
  • Special care
  • Vegan

Aloe Vera Active Gel

A cooling mask for the face, neck and décolleté which intensively moisturises: DERMASENCE Aloe Vera Active Gel soothes and smooths – and is ideal for dehydrated, sensitive skin, including couperose and rosacea, acne and aesthetic treatments such as peels or laser treatment. The highly effective natural Aloe Vera extract has cooling and antipruritic properties and stimulates the skin's own repair properties. It regulates the moisture balance and calms irritated skin. Witch hazel extract as a radical scavenger has an anti-oxidative effect, glycerine provides and binds moisture.

*Nationally representative survey 

by Appinio on behalf of Medicos Kosmetik GmbH & Co. KG

  • Field time: 27/11/2025 – 28/11/2025
  • n=1352 participants
  • Age: from 18 years of age and above
  • Residence: Germany

Sources

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  3. Bundesamt für Verbraucherschutz und Lebensmittelsicherheit. Sonnenschutzmittel.
    www.bvl.bund.de/DE/Arbeitsbereiche/­03_Verbraucherprodukte/­02_Verbraucher/­03_Kosmetik/­06_Sonnenschutzmittel/­bgs_kosmetik_sonnenschutz­mittel­_node.html 
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  5. KaltchenkoM, Chien A. Photoaging: Current Concepts on Molecular Mechanisms, Prevention, and Treatment. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology. 2025;26(3):321-344. doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/s40257-025-00933-z
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  7. Balakirski, G., Gäbelein-Wissing, N. & Hofmann, S.C. Lichturtikaria und polymorphe Lichtdermatose. Dermatologie 75, 518–527 (2024). https://doi.org/­10.1007/s00105-024-05368-x
  8. Reichrath, J. (2024). Mögliche Gesundheitsrisiken und Umweltbelastungen durch Sonnencreme. In: Sonnencreme . essentials. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/­10.1007/978-3-662-70631-2_4
  9. Nitulescu G, Lupuliasa D, Adam-Dima I, Nitulescu GM. Ultraviolet Filters for Cosmetic Applications. Cosmetics. 2023;10(4). doi:10.3390/cosmetics10040101
  10. Breakell T, Kowalski I, Foerster Y, et al. Ultraviolet Filters: Dissecting Current Facts and Myths. Journal of Clinical Medicine. 2024;13(10). doi:10.3390/jcm13102986
  11. Reichrath J. Kritische Überlegungen zur Zulassung von UV-Filtern in der Europäischen Union (EU). In: Sonnencreme : Pro Und Contra. Springer Berlin Heidelberg; 2024:35-37. doi:10.1007/978-3-662-70631-2_6
  12. Silva, S./ Ferreira, M./ Oliveira, A. S./ Magalhaes, C./ Sousa, M. E./ Pinto, M./ Sousa Lobo, J. M./ Almeida, I. F. (2019): Evolution of the use of antioxidants in anti-aging cosmetics. In: International Journal of Cosmetic Science 41(4): S. 378-386
  13. Graf R, Anzali S, Buenger J, Pfluecker F, Driller H. The multifunctional role of ectoine as a natural cell protectant. Clin Dermatol. 2008 Jul-Aug;26(4):326-33. doi: 10.1016/j.clindermatol.2008.01.002. PMID: 18691511.
  14. Leitlinienprogramm Onkologie (2014): S3-Leitlinie. Prävention von Hautkrebs. URL: https://www.leitlinienprogramm-­onkologie.de/­fileadmin/­user_upload/­Downloads/­Leitlinien/­Hautkrebspraeventationsleitlinie_1.1/­LL_PraeventionHK_­OL_­Langversion_1.1.pdf
  15. Baldermann, Cornelia/Lorenz, Sebastian (2019): UV-Strahlung in Deutschland: Einflüsse des Ozonabbaus und des Klimawandels sowie Maßnahmen zum Schutz der Bevölkerung. In: Bundesgesundheitsblatt – Gesundheitsforschung – Gesundheitsschutz. Band 62, Heft 5, S. 639-645.
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