Hi there, sun lovers! ☀️ It’s your friendly neighborhood sunscreen enthusiast here to help you navigate the confusing world of SPF. We’ve all been there, standing in the sunscreen aisle staring at rows and rows of bottles, wondering which one to choose. Fear not, because I’ve put together a guide to help you find the perfect SPF for you!

What Exactly is SPF Anyway?

We’ve all heard of SPF, but what does it actually mean? SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and is a measure of how well a sunscreen will protect your skin from UVB rays. The higher the SPF number, the greater the level of protection.

It’s important to note that SPF only relates to UVB rays, which are the rays that cause sunburn. It doesn’t measure protection against UVA rays, which causes skin aging and may contribute to skin cancer. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

A graphic of the difference between UVA and UVB rays.

Finding Your Perfect SPF

Now that we understand what SPF means, how do we choose the right one for us? The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.

But here’s the thing: the higher the SPF, the more difficult it is to achieve a higher level of protection. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks about 98%. So, the difference in protection between SPF 30 and SPF 50 is minimal.

The key is to pick a sunscreen with an SPF that you’ll actually use. If a high SPF makes you not want to use it, then it’s not worth it. Plus, people tend to apply less sunscreen than what is recommended, so using a higher SPF doesn’t necessarily mean better protection.

A person holding a bottle of sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.

Understanding Sunscreen Formats

Sunscreens come in many formats including creams, lotions, sprays, and sticks. But what’s the difference and which one should you choose?

Creams and lotions tend to be the most popular choice and are easily absorbed into the skin. They’re great for dry skin and can provide moisture.

Sprays are convenient and easy to apply, but they’re not ideal for beach days with lots of wind. Plus, it can be difficult to know if you’re applying enough.

Sticks are perfect for on-the-go and spot protection. They’re easy to apply and won’t run into your eyes.

Choose the format that works best for your needs and activities.

A graphic with the different types of sunscreen formats.

Don’t Forget to Reapply

One of the biggest mistakes people make with sunscreen is not reapplying. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating.

If you’re wearing makeup, try a spray sunscreen that you can apply over your makeup. And don’t forget about your lips – use a lip balm with SPF to protect them.

A person reapplying sunscreen on their arms and legs at the beach.

Other Considerations

If you have sensitive skin or are prone to acne, look for a sunscreen that is labeled as “non-comedogenic” and “fragrance-free.”

And always remember to check the expiration date on your sunscreen. Expired sunscreen loses its effectiveness and can actually cause harm to your skin.

A graphic with the important factors to consider when purchasing sunscreen.

So there you have it – everything you need to know to navigate the confusing world of sunscreen. Remember to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF that you’ll actually use, and to reapply every two hours. Happy sun protecting! ☀️🧴

A person holding a bottle of sunscreen with a sunny beach in the background.