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SPF indicates how efficient a sunscreen is in protecting the skin from sunburn.
Sunscreen gradually wears off when it comes into contact with water, sand and sweat. Plus, its effectiveness wears off over time even without contact with these elements. In order to ensure your skin is properly protected the entire time you spend in the sun, be sure to reapply your sunscreen at least once every two hours, if not every hour.
The UV Index is a universal scale that indicates the intensity of ultraviolet radiation and the possible health risks involved at around noon sun-time. The main factors that lead to variations in the UV Index include geographical location (latitude and altitude), the date, cloud cover and thickness of the ozone layer.
The UV Index was developed by a Canadian team in the early 90's. Today it is the reference recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO) to inform people of the risks linked to overexposure to the sun. Certain national bodies have adopted slightly different terms to qualify the various UV levels.
| UV Index |
Level of risk |
| 1, 2 |
Low |
| 3,4 |
Moderate |
| 5,6 |
High |
| 7,8 |
Very strong |
| 9 and over |
Extreme |
The UV Index on lancome.com: We receive it from our partner, Météo Consult, 12 to 36 hours in advance.
Here are some simple pointers to help you to figure out what time noon sun-time occurs in your area:
- Observe the sunrise and sunset times. Noon sun-time is right between the two.
- Stand a stick in the ground vertically, making sure the surface is perfectly horizontal. Noon sun-time occurs when the shadow is shortest.
No. Sunscreen only guarantees UV protection if it is reapplied at least once every two hours, if not every hour. Generally speaking, you only use your day cream once a day therefore it can by no means be a substitute for regular sunscreens.
SPF (Sunscreen Protection Factor) indicates how efficient a sunscreen is in protecting the skin from sunburn - regardless of the brand. However, Lancôme incorporates a specific anti-UVA and anti-UVB filtering system (Mexoryl SX + Mexoryl XL) into Lancôme sunscreens that also protects the skin from premature ageing.
When a woman is pregnant or undergoing hormonal changes (e.g. during menopause) her skin is more sensitive to the sun. So, it's best to avoid spending time in the sun because it could lead to the onset of unsightly dark spots (called a "pregnancy mask") that may persist for several years, especially on the face area. We strongly recommend using products with an extremely high SPF (SPF 50 or 60). Be sure to reapply the product at least once every two hours, if not every hour.
The skin has a natural anti-sun defence system. When exposed to the sun, the skin produces a pigment (melanin). When brown, it serves as a protective barrier. This is what happens in darker skin. But when red, it provides very little protection. This is what happens in fairer skin. Nevertheless, for all skin tones it takes a certain amount of time for the skin to produce this "protective shield", which is why it is essential to protect your skin particularly well at the beginning of your holiday in the sun. But remember that a tan is not a foolproof UV shield - especially when it comes to UVA. Therefore, be sure to continue to protect your skin even when you have a great tan.
Yes, you can. Based on your skin's specific needs, either use your sunscreen alone or along with your usual day care. Simply apply your day care product first, and then finish up with the sunscreen.
This label means that most of the product's filtering properties remain effective when you go for a swim. However, its effectiveness diminishes when it rubs against sand or after a high-pressure shower. Therefore be sure to reapply your sunscreen regularly, especially after each swim.
Yes, in that they leave your skin with a perfect tan without sun exposure. It's the ideal product for those who want a great golden tan all year round without having to resort to sun beds - which cause premature skin ageing. However, self-tanners only tint the skin. They offer no UV protection. Therefore it is essential to use sunscreen before spending time in the sun.
The self tanning technology is a reaction between the product, the skin and the air (like an oxidation process).
Applied to the skin without sun exposure, a molecule in the self tanner reacts with the stratum corneum and confers an overall colour close to that of a natural tan. DHA (Dihydroxy Acetone) is the most commonly used molecule for self-tanning. While this action doesn't require sun or UV exposure, it is in no case a form of solar protection. The colour-induced process is limited to the very first layers of the stratum corneum and is progressively eliminated by peeling, unless re-applied daily. This means that it lasts until the cells peel away naturally, from one to a few days depending on the skin's condition (until the skin cells are renewed).
The tan only lasts until the skin peels. It isn't "permanent" after the elimination of dead cells. This can be accelerated by an exfoliation. Frequent use (two or three times a week depending on the results) will give you an even tan, and a "permanent" one until you stop applying the product and your skin peels.
In case of doubt, feel free to contact us
Lancôme products are sold exclusively at authorised points of sale and on the brand website. No other distribution outlet or website is authorised by Lancôme.
In terms of online sales of Lancôme products, there are three virtual shops that cater exclusively to the residents of the U.S., Japan and France.
For other countries, the brand does not offer online sales at the moment and does not provide a mail-order service.
There are also "shop-in-shops" in certain authorized retailer stores. You can consult our list of these stores.
No other site in the world is authorized to sell Lancôme products.
In case of doubt, feel free to contact us.
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