Is SPF 30 enough?

What does SPF 30 actually protect against?

SPF means sun protection factor and primarily measures protection against UVB, the ultraviolet rays that cause sunburn. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays when applied properly. Higher SPF blocks slightly more, but no sunscreen blocks all UVB rays. Broad spectrum sunscreen also protects against UVA, which contributes to skin aging and skin cancer. The broad spectrum wording matters alongside the SPF number, even though it is less impressive as a headline.234

When should you choose a higher SPF?

For a beach day, outdoor sport or hours spent working outside, choose SPF 50 or higher. Higher SPF helps compensate for applying too little, but it does not replace generous coverage. SPF is not a time allowance: SPF 30 does not mean you can safely stay outside 30 times longer. Sun intensity changes with the time of day and location, and sweat, water and friction reduce protection. Higher SPF needs the same outdoor reapplication schedule as SPF 30.123

How to get the protection on the label

1. 1Choose broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher with water resistance. In the UK, look for at least four star UVA protection; a UVA symbol inside a circle indicates the EU standard.
2. 2Apply to dry skin before going outdoors. Allow 15 to 30 minutes, following the bottle's directions. Most adults need at least one ounce, roughly a shot glass, to cover exposed skin; larger bodies need more.
3. 3Cover every exposed area, including ears, neck, hands, tops of feet, hairline and exposed scalp. Protect lips with an SPF 30 or higher lip product.
4. 4Reapply approximately every two hours outdoors, and after swimming, sweating or towel drying. Water resistance lasts 40 or 80 minutes as stated on the label, not indefinitely.

Is SPF 30 enough for your face?

Yes, the same daily minimum applies to your face. Use at least one teaspoon, about enough to cover the length of your index and middle fingers. A moisturizer with SPF can be convenient, but its sunscreen has not been promoted to a different set of rules. Apply enough and reapply outdoors. For sensitive skin, mineral sunscreen containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide is a recommended option. If dark spots are a concern, tinted SPF 30 or higher containing iron oxide adds protection against visible light, which can worsen skin darkening, particularly in darker skin tones.2

What SPF 30 cannot do

You can still tan or burn while wearing sunscreen. Use sunscreen even for short trips outside and on cloudy days. Add a hat, protective clothing and sunglasses, and seek shade during the strongest sun. Take extra care near water, snow and sand, which reflect ultraviolet rays.2567

Take extra precautions if you burn easily, have many moles, have a personal or family history of skin cancer, or take medication that increases sun sensitivity. For babies under six months, prioritize shade and clothing and ask a doctor before applying sunscreen. If you burn, stay out of the sun until redness has gone; seek medical help if you feel unwell or have severe swelling or blisters.12357

Check the expiry date and keep the bottle away from excessive heat and direct sun. If there is no expiry date, replace sunscreen three years after purchase; discard it if you cannot tell how old it is.3