When the days become sunnier, it is crucial to prioritize UV protection with sunscreen more than ever before. It is widely recognized that sunscreens play a crucial role in shielding our skin from the harmful impacts of UV radiation from the sun. Applying SPF is an essential step in skincare. With the wide availability of information about UV protection with sunscreen, there are still several important questions that need to be answered in order to select the best SPF for individual needs.

The most commonly asked questions regarding sunscreens are:

• which SPF protection to choose
• how long the effects last
• and what are the best face sunscreens available in the market

Let’s start with the first question: which sun protection factor to select?

Below you can find some general guidelines to help you choose an appropriate SPF level:

• SPF 15: This provides moderate protection and is suitable for everyday activities with limited sun exposure. It blocks approximately 93% of UVB rays.
• SPF 30: This offers a higher level of protection and is recommended for extended periods of outdoor activities. It blocks approximately 97% of UVB rays.
• SPF 50: This provides a high level of protection and is ideal for individuals with fair or sensitive skin, or during intense sun exposure. It blocks approximately 98% of UVB rays.
• SPF 50+ or higher: This offers the highest level of protection and is recommended for people with very fair or sensitive skin, or during extremely intense sun exposure. It blocks more than 98% of UVB rays.

How long does UV protection with sunscreen last?

SPF provides protection for a specific period of time, usually stated on the product label. For instance, if a sunscreen has an SPF 30 rating, it means it can provide 30 times the protection from sunburn compared to not wearing any sunscreen. However, this does not imply that the protection lasts for 30 hours. The duration of protection depends on factors like sweating, swimming, and wiping off the sunscreen.

To maintain effective protection, it is generally recommended to reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if sweating heavily or swimming. This is because the protective layer of sunscreen can wear off or be wiped away during activities, reducing its effectiveness over time.

If you have specific concerns or skin conditions, it is best to consult with a dermatologist who can offer personalized recommendations regarding the appropriate SPF level and type of sunscreen for your specific needs.

What are the best face sunscreens available in the market?

Please check out our article “Best Sunscreens for Face“ for more information about that topic.