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As the weather heats up this summer, prioritize sun protection to shield your skin from harmful UV rays. Exposure can lead to premature aging, wrinkles, and even skin cancer. Fortunately, a simple application of sunscreen can provide a protective barrier, no matter your outdoor activities. However, selecting the right SPF sunscreen can be overwhelming given the numerous options available. To help you make an educated choice, we consulted with a dermatologist.
Understanding SPF: Does a Higher Number Offer Better Shielding?
SPF, or sun protection factor, quantifies the amount of solar energy needed to cause a sunburn on protected skin compared to unprotected skin, as defined by the US Food and Drug Administration. Logically, a higher SPF should provide enhanced protection when you’re enjoying time outdoors in the sun.
SPF 30 vs. SPF 50: Is There a Significant Difference?
According to Dr. Steven Daveluy, a board-certified dermatologist and program director at Wayne State University Department of Dermatology, the actual difference in protection between SPF 30 and SPF 50 is minimal. He cited an example where SPF 30 blocked 96.7% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocked 98%. However, Dr. Daveluy noted that observational studies of people using sunscreen in real-world scenarios indicates that higher SPFs do perform with greater protection as the use of sunscreen tends to be less exact.
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Considering most people apply only 25% to 50% of the recommended amount of sunscreen, a higher SPF could provide a more substantial safety net.
Proper Sunscreen Application is Key
- “You should use about 1 ounce of sunscreen to cover your head, neck, arms and legs when wearing shorts and a T-shirt,” Dr. Daveluy advised.
- Those without hair should use slightly more.
- “That means your 3-ounce tube of sunscreen is only three applications,” he emphasized. “Most people are not using that amount.”
Determining the Right SPF Level for Your Needs
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. They also advise choosing a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection (against UVA and UVB rays) and is water-resistant.
“If you follow the recommendations for the proper amount of sunscreen, then SPF 30 is great,” Dr. Daveluy stated. However, if you suspect you might be skimping on application, opting for a higher SPF could be beneficial. He generally suggests looking for at least SPF 50 or 60.
The Role of Skin Tone in SPF Selection
Individuals with darker skin tones have more melanin, which provides some natural defense against the sun’s harmful rays. Consequently, skin cancer rates are lower among people of color compared to white individuals. However, the risk is not nonexistent. Research also indicates that people of color may experience delayed or missed skin cancer diagnoses, leading to more severe outcomes. It’s important to remember that melanoma can arise from causes other than sun or UV exposure and can appear in areas not typically exposed to sunlight.
“SPF 30 is the minimum for everyone,” Dr. Daveluy emphasized, noting that tinted sunscreens can be a better match for darker skin tones, minimizing any white cast.
“If you have very fair skin, the higher [SPF] numbers may be a good idea, especially if you aren’t using the proper amount, because you will see the consequences of underuse more easily,” Dr. Daveluy said.
Sunscreen: Avoiding Common Pitfalls and Misconceptions
As long as you’re applying a minimum of SPF 30, using it correctly, and selecting broad-spectrum, water-resistant products, you’ve covered the essentials. Dr. Daveluy added that individuals with sensitive skin may benefit from mineral sunscreens containing zinc and/or titanium as active ingredients.
Dr. Daveluy also highlighted the importance of additional sun protection measures, such as wearing wide-brimmed hats, sun-protective clothing, and seeking shade when possible. Importantly, he asserted that sunscreen has a long-standing and proven safety record.
“The biggest red flags for sunscreen are any people or reports that try to tell you sunscreen isn’t safe,” Dr. Daveluy stated.