What is SPF in a sunscreen?

One of the most important tools in our skincare arsenal is sunscreen, but with so many options available, it can be difficult to know which one to choose. One of the key factors to consider when selecting a sunscreen is its SPF, or Sun Protection Factor.

What is SPF?

SPF is a measure of a sunscreen's ability to protect your skin from UVB rays, which are the rays responsible for causing sunburn. The higher the SPF, the greater the level of protection. For example, a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 will filter out about 93% of UVB rays, while a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 will filter out about 97% of UVB rays.And SPF 50 will filter out 98%!

It's important to note that SPF only measures protection against UVB rays, not UVA rays. UVA rays can penetrate deeper into the skin and are responsible for causing premature aging and some types of skin cancer. This is especially for people who say, “ Why do I need sunscreen, I don’t step out?!”.

To ensure full protection, it's important to choose a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection, which means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

Which SPF to buy?

The recommended SPF level for sunscreen is at least 30, for Indian climate, but some people may require a higher SPF for adequate protection. Factors that can affect the amount of protection you need include:

Skin type: People with fair skin are prone to sunburn and may require a higher SPF but that doesn’t mean that deeper skin tones do not need it!

Time of day: UV rays are most intense between 10am and 4pm, so if you spend a lot of time outdoors during these hours, you may require a higher SPF.

Activities: If you're swimming, sweating, or participating in other outdoor activities, you may require a water-resistant sunscreen with a higher SPF.

It's important to choose a sunscreen that you'll actually use, so consider factors such as texture, scent, and skin sensitivity when making your selection. Sunscreens come in a variety of forms, including lotions, sprays, and sticks, so find one that you're comfortable applying and reapplying throughout the day.

Application of SPF

In addition to choosing the right SPF, it's important to apply sunscreen correctly. Most people don't apply enough sunscreen to get the full SPF protection listed on the label. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using about 1 ounce (enough to fill a shot glass) of sunscreen for each application, in India we commonly top about 3 fingers full and reapplying every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating.

In conclusion, SPF is an important factor to consider when choosing a sunscreen. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, but consider factors such as skin type, time of day, and activities when determining the level of protection you need. Remember to apply sunscreen correctly and use it in combination with other sun protection measures for optimal protection from the sun's harmful rays. With the right sunscreen and sun protection habits, you can enjoy the outdoors while keeping your skin healthy and protected.