FAQ About Sunscreen

While a higher SPF offers more protection than a lower SPF, it's essential to understand that the increase in protection is not directly proportional to the SPF number. In practical terms, a higher SPF does not necessarily mean significantly better protection. Here are some key points to consider:

• SPF and Percentage of UVB Protection: SPF values are related to the percentage of UVB rays blocked by the sunscreen. For example, an SPF 30 sunscreen blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while an SPF 50 blocks about 98%. The difference in UVB protection between SPF 30 and SPF 50 is only about 1%.
• Marginal Increase in Protection: As the SPF number increases, the additional protection provided becomes marginal. For instance, an SPF 30 sunscreen may allow you to stay in the sun about 30 times longer without burning compared to not wearing sunscreen, while an SPF 50 sunscreen would allow you to stay about 50 times longer. The difference in actual time protected is relatively small.
• Misleading Perceptions: The notion that a higher SPF offers significantly better protection can lead to a false sense of security. People may believe that they can apply a higher SPF sunscreen once and be adequately protected all day, which is not the case.
• Reapplication Frequency: Regardless of the SPF level, sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours, or more frequently if swimming, sweating, or rubbing the skin. No sunscreen provides all-day protection, and reapplication is crucial to maintain effectiveness.
• Other Types of Protection: SPF only measures protection against UVB rays, which cause sunburn. It does not indicate protection against UVA rays, which can cause long-term skin damage. To ensure comprehensive protection, look for a sunscreen labeled as "broad-spectrum," which shields the skin from both UVA and UVB rays.
• Skin Type and Sensitivity: Individuals with fair or sensitive skin may find higher SPF sunscreens beneficial as an extra precaution. However, for some people, higher SPF formulations can be heavier, greasier, or more likely to cause skin irritation.