Is SPF 15 enough for everyday use?

What SPF is enough for daily use?

Choose SPF 30 or higher for your everyday sunscreen. For an extended day outdoors, choose a water resistant SPF 50 or higher. SPF measures protection mainly against UVB, the ultraviolet rays responsible for sunburn. Broad spectrum coverage also protects against UVA; both types contribute to skin damage and skin cancer.345

Those percentages assume proper application: applying sunscreen too thinly reduces protection. Choose broad spectrum protection as well as an SPF number, because the number does not get to do two jobs. On UK sunscreen labels, look for at least SPF 30 and at least four stars for UVA protection; a UVA symbol inside a circle indicates the EU standard.56

Is SPF 30 necessary every day?

SPF 30 is a sensible default for days when you go outside, including cloudy days and winter walks. Cool weather does not remove the risk from ultraviolet rays. Exposure, rather than temperature, should guide your routine.17

Check the UV index on your weather app: daily sunscreen is advised when the index is 3 or higher. In places far from the equator, winter UV exposure can be much lower, so sunscreen is not necessarily needed throughout the year. Take extra care at high altitude and around snow, which reflects ultraviolet radiation.4

Can I use SPF 15 moisturizer instead of sunscreen?

A moisturizer can provide sun protection when it has the right SPF and broad spectrum coverage, even if the bottle has chosen a different job title. An SPF 15 moisturizer still provides SPF 15 protection: for the preferred daily level, choose a broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher moisturizer or sunscreen. A moisturizing formula can be useful for dry skin.12

Apply enough and reapply while outdoors, just as you would with sunscreen. A light layer of moisturizer does not deliver the protection of a full application. If you will swim or sweat, choose water resistance rather than assuming an SPF moisturizer has it.67

How to get the protection on the label

1. 1Apply before going outdoors. Allow 15 minutes before sun exposure and follow your product's directions.
2. 2Use enough. For the face, use at least one teaspoon and rub it in thoroughly. Most adults need at least one ounce to cover skin not covered by clothing.
3. 3Cover exposed areas, including your neck, ears, hands and tops of your feet. Use SPF 30 lip balm for your lips.
4. 4Reapply every two hours while outdoors and immediately after swimming or sweating. Reapply after towel drying or rubbing sunscreen off.
5. 5Use shade, covering clothing, a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses alongside sunscreen. Do not extend your time in the sun because you are wearing it.

Who should be more careful?

Take extra precautions if you burn easily, have many moles or have a family history of skin cancer. Every skin tone still needs protection. If sunscreen stings or burns, choose a fragrance free formula containing only zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as sunscreen filters. Seek medical help for sunburn that causes severe swelling, blisters or feeling unwell.26