Summer is just around the corner, which means it’s time to start thinking about sun protection. Sunscreen is an essential part of any skincare routine, but with so many options on the market, it can be hard to know what you’re actually getting. One of the most confusing aspects of sunscreen is SPF. What does it mean, and how do you choose the right level of protection?

What is SPF?

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. It’s a measure of how well a sunscreen protects your skin from UVB rays, which are the rays that cause sunburn. The higher the SPF, the more protection you’ll get. For example, an SPF of 30 will block 97% of UVB rays, while an SPF of 50 will block 98%. It’s important to note that no sunscreen can provide 100% protection, so it’s still possible to get sunburned even if you’re wearing sunscreen.

What does sunscreen do?

sunscreen

Sunscreen works by absorbing or reflecting UV rays before they can penetrate your skin. There are two types of sunscreen: chemical and physical. Chemical sunscreens contain ingredients like avobenzone and oxybenzone, which absorb UV rays and convert them into heat. Physical sunscreens, on the other hand, contain ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which reflect UV rays away from your skin.

Both types of sunscreen are effective, but physical sunscreens are often recommended for people with sensitive skin because they’re less likely to cause irritation. They’re also less likely to degrade in the sun, which means they provide longer-lasting protection.

How do you choose the right SPF?

The right SPF for you will depend on a few factors, including your skin type, the time of day, and the amount of time you’ll be spending outside. In general, it’s recommended that you use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. This will provide adequate protection for most people.

If you have fair skin or a history of skin cancer, you may want to opt for a higher SPF. It’s also important to remember that you’ll need to reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating.

The bottom line

Sunscreen is an essential part of any skincare routine, but it can be confusing to know what you’re actually getting. SPF is a measure of how well a sunscreen protects your skin from UVB rays, and the higher the SPF, the more protection you’ll get. When choosing a sunscreen, it’s important to consider your skin type and the amount of time you’ll be spending outside. So, next time you head outside, make sure you’re armed with the right SPF to keep your skin safe and healthy.